The Festivals of Quebec City

Winter and summer are the most active times for festivals in Québec. The Québec City Summer Festival takes place annually the first week of July. This festival includes indoor and outdoor venues all over the city that aim to showcase the region’s potential. The main outdoor venue of this festival is the Plains of Abraham, due to its size. Street performers are also a part of this festival, peppering the city with their talents. For one week in early August, the Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France, or the New France Festival, lets visitors experience life in the 17th century in New France. Participants dressed in period attire, as well as processions and presentations help highlight what daily life was like when the area was at its peak. The Québec City International Festival of Military Bands is also held in August. The aim of this festival is to garner appreciation for Canada’s military bands, while showcasing Old Québec’s historic places. Every year, more than 20 bands participate in this festival, which often coincides with the last days of summer. The majestic Montmorency Falls are the backdrop for the Québec City International Fireworks Festival. Each year roughly 350,000 spectators watch as six countries compete for the grand prize, and light up the summer sky. Québec City becomes a snowy wonderland, and this spot is the setting for the “Québec Celebrates Christmas” Festival. Old Québec is filled with the spirit of the season, along with tradition, history and yummy goodies for the whole family. Music and live street theater are just a few ways this city tries to spread the good cheer. Québec City’s most famous festival is the Carnaval de Québec, or Québec Winter Carnival. Held over two weeks from late January to mid-February, this is the biggest winter carnival in the world. This pre-Lenten tradition includes winter sports and activities, as well as snow and ice sculptures, to make it through the cold winter months. Whether it’s summer fun, or a winter wonderland that you’re seeking, Québec City definitely has something a festival for you.