#FIRSTLOOK: “MAGIC ON SET” OTTAWA TOURISM SHORT FILM

Ottawa Tourism’s delightful new holiday rom-com, Magic On Set, is now streaming on YouTube. Viewers can also catch the film on Air Canada’s in-flight entertainment, available in English with optional French subtitles. For a more immersive festive experience, holiday fans and film-lovers can take part in the Magic On Set activation at The Distillery Winter Village, opening November 13 and running until November 17, 2025.

In October, the film had its holiday-themed red carpet premiere at TIFF Lightbox in Toronto with cast and other special guests in attendance. Audiences everywhere can now experience the sparkle of Ottawa’s holiday magic, from the twinkling lights of the ByWard Market to the skating trails and cozy cafés that make the city a real-life rom-com setting.

Directed by Shawna Steele (An Ice Palace Romance) and starring Melinda Shankar (Degrassi: The Next Generation), Chad Connell (Good Sam), Sarah McVie (Workin’ Moms, The Handmaid’s Tale), and Simba Yakibonge (No Regrets), singer/songwriter Jamie Fine, Stefan Keyes (CTV News anchor), content creator Katie Hession, and Maeve Georgeson, the 17-minute short film captures the irresistible charm of Canada’s capital during the festive season.

Magic on Set was written by Ottawa-based screenwriter Graeme Archibald and filmed entirely on location, featuring iconic landmarks including the Fairmont Château Laurier, the Canadian Museum of Nature, the Ottawa Christmas Market, and Parliament Hill’s Centennial Flame. The film is a love letter to Ottawa’s growing reputation as a go-to destination for holiday productions—and for travellers seeking a festive winter getaway.

About Ottawa Tourism
Through its values of inclusivity, trust, collaboration, and innovation, Ottawa Tourism pursues its vision to be one of Canada’s most visited, sustainable, vibrant, and appealing urban destinations, as well as the tourism authority for key economic development and city-building decisions in Ottawa. Canada’s capital welcomes an estimated 9.8 million visitors annually who spend $2.6 billion in the community.