December 7, 2025: Rotarians and friends filled the ByWard Market with song yesterday afternoon. Voices rose, people came and went, and the music carried through the square. After singing together, nearly thirty Rotarians and friends gathered for dinner to continue the fellowship.
About forty singers took part throughout the singing event, joined by families, friends, and curious passersby who grabbed carol books and added their voices to the celebration. It was a joyful reminder of how music brings people together and how Rotary strengthens our community.
Our group was led by a visiting Rotarian - Susan Ueffing - from the Kentville, Nova Scotia Club, with special moments shared with Rotarians from the United Kingdom and the Kiev-Balzac Club in Ukraine. A member of the Gideons even borrowed our guitar for an impromptu performance. These spontaneous connections captured the spirit of Rotary: friendship, openness, and service through shared experiences. Many helped to share our Club’s story with the public, including invitations to upcoming lunches and information about Rotary’s work in Ottawa and around the world. Volunteers also offered Cash Calendars for those wishing to support our charitable work. After singing, we broke bread with about 30 people at a local restaurant.
The Rotary Club of West Ottawa extends sincere thanks to the ByWard Market Authority for hosting us. We are grateful for the opportunity to bring holiday cheer to one of Ottawa’s most iconic public spaces.
As we enter the festive season, we invite everyone to stay connected with us and to keep spreading kindness, community spirit, and the joy of service.