Make the most of your holiday season in Quebec City with our planner guide. Discover all the best events and activities.
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the enchanting Christmas Market that comes alive with local crafts and delicious treats. Be sure to take a stroll through the beautifully illuminated streets during Old Quebec Christmas Lights, which showcases the city's historic charm. And the Old Quebec Winter Carnival is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring unique winter activities and vibrant parades. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Quebec City
- Christmas Market
- Old Quebec Christmas Lights
- Old Quebec Winter Carnival
- Christmas at Château Frontenac
- Edwin Bélanger Bandstand Christmas Concert
- Nutcracker Ballet
- Holiday Symphony Concerts
- Village Nordik
- Traditional Christmas Dinner
- Ice Skating at Place D’Youville
Quebec City Holiday Light Displays
Old Quebec Christmas Lights
What to Expect:
Historic UNESCO World Heritage site illuminated
Description:
Old Quebec transforms into a luminous spectacle during the holiday season. The centuries-old architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site serves as a stunning backdrop for thousands of twinkling lights. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets aglow with festive illuminations, highlighting the area's rich history. You can join a guided tour to learn about the city's 400-year-old holiday traditions while marveling at the radiant displays. The juxtaposition of modern lights against the ancient stone walls creates a truly unique visual experience.
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Holiday Light Tour
What to Expect:
Guided tour of the city's best light displays
Description:
Holiday Light Tour in Quebec City illuminates the city's most dazzling seasonal displays. Board a comfortable tour bus and wind through the streets of Old Quebec and beyond, discovering hidden gems of holiday illumination. A knowledgeable guide shares stories about the city's holiday traditions and the history behind various landmarks. This curated experience ensures you see the best light displays without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets. Capture stunning photos of the city aglow as you learn about Quebec's unique approach to holiday decorating.
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Quebec City Holiday Markets and Shopping
Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Authentic European-style market in North America
Description:
Quebec City's Christmas Market transports visitors to a European-style winter wonderland. Stroll through charming wooden chalets adorned with twinkling lights, offering artisanal crafts and local delicacies. Sample traditional Québécois treats like maple taffy while browsing unique gifts. This market, inspired by those in Germany, has been a beloved tradition since 2008. Warm your hands with a steaming cup of mulled wine as you explore the festive atmosphere of this distinctly North American take on a European classic.
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Christmas Artisans Fair
What to Expect:
Showcase of local artisans and traditional crafts
Description:
The Christmas Artisans Fair in Quebec City spotlights the region's rich artistic heritage. Browse booths filled with handcrafted items, from intricate wood carvings to delicate blown glass ornaments. Meet local artisans and learn about traditional Québécois crafts that have been passed down through generations. Many of these techniques date back to the early days of French colonization. You can watch live demonstrations of various crafting methods, gaining insight into the skill and dedication required to create these unique pieces.
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Quebec City Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Edwin Bélanger Bandstand Christmas Concert
What to Expect:
Open-air concert in a historic park
Description:
The Edwin Bélanger Bandstand Christmas Concert fills the air with melodious holiday tunes in the heart of historic Plains of Abraham. This open-air performance showcases local talent against the backdrop of a snow-covered park. Bundle up and listen to a mix of traditional carols and contemporary holiday hits. The bandstand, named after renowned Quebec conductor Edwin Bélanger, has been a focal point for music in the park since 1993. You can bring a thermos of hot chocolate to sip while enjoying the crisp winter air and festive melodies.
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Edwin Bélanger Bandstand Christmas Concert
Nutcracker Ballet
What to Expect:
Performance in a grand, historic theater
Description:
Quebec City's Nutcracker Ballet brings Tchaikovsky's timeless classic to life in the opulent Grand Théâtre de Québec. This rendition features stunning choreography performed by talented local dancers, accompanied by a live orchestra. Marvel at the intricate costumes and elaborate sets that transport audiences to a world of sugar plum fairies and toy soldiers. The theater itself, opened in 1971, is an architectural gem that enhances the overall experience. Immerse yourself in the graceful movements and soaring music of this beloved holiday tradition.
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Holiday Symphony Concerts
What to Expect:
Classical performances in a world-class concert hall
Description:
Holiday Symphony Concerts in Quebec City resonate with the joyous sounds of the season in the acoustically superb Palais Montcalm. The Orchestre symphonique de Québec, founded in 1902, performs a repertoire of classical holiday favorites and contemporary pieces. Listen to the rich, full sound of the orchestra as it fills the elegant concert hall. These performances often feature guest soloists and choirs, adding depth and variety to the musical offerings. Appreciate the skill and artistry of the musicians as they bring holiday classics to life with passion and precision.
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Polar Express Train Ride
What to Expect:
Immersive holiday train experience based on the popular book
Description:
The Polar Express Train Ride brings the beloved children's book to life in Quebec City. Board a real train decked out in holiday splendor for a journey to the "North Pole." Cheerful conductors punch golden tickets while serving hot chocolate and cookies. Listen to a reading of the classic story as the train chugs through the snowy landscape. This interactive experience, which began in the early 2000s, has quickly become a cherished holiday tradition for many families. You might even spot Santa himself during this whimsical railway adventure.
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Quebec City Other Holiday Activities
Old Quebec Winter Carnival
What to Expect:
Largest winter carnival in the world
Description:
Old Quebec Winter Carnival invigorates the city with frosty fun and excitement. As the largest winter carnival globally, it boasts an impressive array of snow and ice sculptures, thrilling winter sports, and vibrant parades. Visitors can participate in unique activities like ice canoeing on the St. Lawrence River or meeting Bonhomme, the carnival's iconic snowman mascot. The carnival's roots trace back to the French colonial era when inhabitants celebrated before Lent. Experience the exhilarating atmosphere as the entire city embraces the cold with warmth and enthusiasm.
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Christmas at Château Frontenac
What to Expect:
Celebration at a world-famous landmark hotel
Description:
Christmas at Château Frontenac elevates holiday celebrations to new heights. This grand hotel, perched atop Cape Diamond, dons its finest holiday attire, captivating visitors with its regal decorations. Indulge in a sumptuous holiday tea service in the opulent setting of this National Historic Site of Canada. The château's rich history dates back to 1893, adding a layer of nostalgia to the festivities. Gaze out at the snow-covered city below while surrounded by the luxurious ambiance of one of the world's most photographed hotels.
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Christmas at Château Frontenac
Village Nordik
What to Expect:
Urban winter village with outdoor activities
Description:
Village Nordik transforms the Port of Quebec into a lively winter playground. This urban winter village offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, from ice fishing to fat biking on snow. Try your hand at curling or warm up by a crackling fire pit while sipping on locally crafted beverages. The village pays homage to Quebec's rich winter sports heritage, which dates back centuries. You can learn about traditional winter survival skills from knowledgeable guides while enjoying modern comforts in this dynamic outdoor setting.
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Traditional Christmas Dinner
What to Expect:
Authentic Québécois holiday feast
Description:
Traditional Christmas Dinner in Quebec City serves up a true taste of Québécois holiday culture. Savor dishes like tourtière, ragoût de boulettes, and bûche de Noël, prepared using time-honored recipes. Many restaurants offer these special menus, allowing visitors to experience the rich culinary traditions of the region. The roots of these holiday dishes can be traced back to early French-Canadian settlers. Indulge in the hearty flavors and generous portions that characterize this festive meal, often accompanied by locally produced wines or craft beers.
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Ice Skating at Place D’Youville
What to Expect:
Outdoor skating rink in the heart of Old Quebec
Description:
Ice Skating at Place D'Youville offers a quintessential winter experience in the historic heart of Quebec City. Glide across the smooth ice surface surrounded by centuries-old architecture and twinkling holiday lights. The rink's location, near Saint-Jean Gate, provides a picturesque setting for this beloved winter activity. Place D'Youville has been a central gathering spot in the city since the 17th century. You can rent skates on-site and enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals and visitors alike twirl and slide across the ice.
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Ice Skating at Place D’Youville
Christmas Eve Mass at Notre-Dame de Québec
What to Expect:
Midnight mass in North America's oldest stone church
Description:
Christmas Eve Mass at Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral offers a profound spiritual experience in a historic setting. Attend midnight mass in North America's oldest stone church, dating back to 1647. The basilica's ornate interior, adorned with holiday decorations, provides a breathtaking backdrop for this solemn celebration. Listen to the angelic voices of the choir echoing through the vaulted ceilings as they sing traditional carols. This centuries-old tradition connects visitors to the deep religious roots of Quebec's holiday celebrations.
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Christmas Eve Mass at Notre-Dame de Québec
Festive Dinner Cruises
What to Expect:
Holiday dining experience on the St. Lawrence River
Description:
Festive Dinner Cruises in Quebec City combine gourmet dining with stunning views of the city's skyline. Sail along the St. Lawrence River aboard a beautifully decorated ship, enjoying a multi-course meal featuring local specialties. Watch the twinkling lights of Old Quebec glide by as you dine in comfort. These cruises often include live entertainment, adding to the jovial atmosphere. The tradition of river cruises in Quebec dates back to the early 20th century. Raise a toast to the holidays as you take in the unique perspective of the city from the water.
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Holiday Brewery Tours
What to Expect:
Seasonal beer tasting at local craft breweries
Description:
Holiday Brewery Tours in Quebec City offer a spirited exploration of the city's craft beer scene. Visit multiple local breweries, each decorated for the season and offering special holiday-themed brews. Sample a variety of festive ales, stouts, and lagers while learning about the brewing process from passionate brewmasters. Quebec's brewing tradition dates back to the early days of New France in the 17th century. You can discover how modern brewers are putting their own spin on traditional recipes, creating unique flavors that capture the essence of the holiday season.