Quebec City, known for its rich historical heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, hosts a series of captivating festivals each year. Whether you are a fan of music, gastronomy, performances, or simply seeking family-friendly events, the festivals in Quebec City are a great reason to visit the city. Here is a guide to the best festivals in Quebec City for tourists not to miss this year.
Quebec Winter Carnival: A Winter Must-See
The Quebec Winter Carnival is undoubtedly one of the most famous festivals in Canada, and a major tourist attraction in Quebec City. This winter festival, usually held in January and February, is the largest of its kind in the world. With over 60 years of history, the Carnival attracts visitors from around the world with its unique activities and Quebecois traditions.
Highlights of the Quebec Winter Carnival include:
- The night parades: The streets of Quebec City light up with allegorical floats, dazzling costumes, and a festive atmosphere.
- Bonhomme’s Palace: The Carnival’s symbol, Bonhomme, welcomes visitors to his impressive ice palace, a gigantic structure built each year.
- Snow sculptures: An international snow sculpture competition showcases the talent of sculptors from various backgrounds.
Whether you come solo, as a couple, or with family, the Quebec Winter Carnival offers family events in Quebec City that appeal to all. It’s the perfect occasion to dive into the festive winter atmosphere and discover the warmth of Quebecers, even in the middle of winter.
Quebec City Summer Festival: A World-Class Musical Event
The Quebec City Summer Festival (FEQ), held each summer in July, is the biggest music festival in the province. With more than 10 days of concerts and internationally renowned artists, this festival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, making it a must-see for tourists in Quebec City.
The FEQ offers a varied program that includes:
- International headliners: Artists such as The Rolling Stones, Céline Dion, and Lady Gaga have performed on the festival’s main stages.
- Local and emerging artists: Besides big names, the festival highlights Quebecois and Canadian talents, thus offering a great showcase for local music.
- Outdoor and intimate stages: Whether you attend a big concert on the Plains of Abraham or a more intimate show in a historic theater, the atmosphere is always unique.
The Quebec City Summer Festival is ideal for music lovers and tourists seeking memorable moments. It is also a family event in Quebec City, with areas designated for children and shows suitable for all ages.
New France Festival: A Journey Through History
For an immersive historical experience, don’t miss the New France Festival, a celebration of Quebec City’s rich colonial history. This festival usually takes place in August and invites visitors to relive the era of New France with period costumes, historical performances, and fascinating reenactments.
Notable activities include:
- Costume parades: Participate in or watch historical parades where participants wear 17th and 18th-century costumes.
- Historical reenactments: Relive significant battles and events of New France with outdoor performances and live shows.
- Period gastronomy: Discover the flavors of yesteryear with food stalls inspired by past recipes.
The New France Festivals are a great family event in Quebec, perfect for families looking to mix education and entertainment. Children will love dressing up as explorers or soldiers while learning the fascinating history of the city.
ComediHa! Fest: The comedy festival not to be missed
For fans of laughter and shows, ComediHa! Fest is one of the best festivals in Quebec. Taking place in August, this comedy festival attracts some of the biggest names in Francophone comedy, as well as international comedians.
Here are some highlights of ComediHa! Fest:
- Outdoor comedy performances: Attend hilarious performances in iconic locations in Quebec, such as the Parc de la Francophonie.
- Gala evenings: The ComediHa! galas are renowned for their spectacular staging and participation of numerous celebrities.
- Interactive events: The festival also offers workshops and interactive activities for those who want to discover the behind-the-scenes world of comedy.
ComediHa! Fest is ideal for adults, but some performances are also suitable for families, making it another great choice among family events in Quebec.
The Quebec City Film Festival (FCVQ): For cinephiles
If you are passionate about cinema, the Quebec City Film Festival (FCVQ) is an event not to be missed. This festival, which takes place in September, presents a selection of international, Quebec, and Canadian films in several categories: feature films, documentaries, short films, etc.
Cinema enthusiasts can enjoy:
- International and local premieres: The FCVQ offers the opportunity to discover films in preview, often in the presence of directors and actors.
- Outdoor screenings: Enjoy the Indian summer in Quebec with outdoor film screenings in iconic locations like the Plains of Abraham.
- Meetings with cinema professionals: Participate in discussions, workshops, and masterclasses to learn more about the behind-the-scenes of the seventh art.
This festival is a great opportunity for cinephiles of all ages to discover unique films and enjoy a friendly atmosphere. Outdoor screenings are perfect for a family event in Quebec.
Festivals in Quebec are a real asset for tourism in Quebec, offering a variety of cultural, musical, and historical experiences. Whether you visit the city in winter for the Quebec Winter Carnival or in summer for the Quebec City Summer Festival, you will always find a captivating event to experience.
Moreover, many festivals are designed to be family events in Quebec, allowing visitors of all ages to enjoy the festivities. Plan your trip according to the best festivals for tourists in Quebec, and have an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful cities in Canada.