quebec city winter carnival travel guide

Guide to the Québec City Winter Carnival

There's nothing like a trip tp Quebec City to experience one of the world's largest winter carnivals. The annual Quebec City Winter Carnival celebrates the best things about the Canadian winter. Nearly 400,000 visitors attend each year, enjoying a variety of events. There are activities for all ages, such as night parades, snow sculpture contests, and ice skating. This family-friendly winter celebration occurs in the provincial capital of Quebec City. Visitors can also spend time exploring historic Old Quebec, which feels like it could be in Europe.

The experts at Canadian Train Vacations have helped put together this guide to the Quebec City Winter Carnival. If you want to attend, they can help plan your trip.

Here's everything you need to know about attending the Quebec City Winter Carnival 2023, along with some Québec Winter Carnival facts .

What is the Quebec Winter Carnival?

Carnaval de Quebec is also known as the Quebec Winter Carnival. It is the world's largest winter carnival. It's like Mardi Gras but set in the winter wonderland of Quebec, Canada. This two-week celebration occurs in the middle of February every year.

It is the oldest winter festival in Canada. The Carnaval de Québec has been held in some form since 1894. Since 1955, it has been an officially recognized annual tradition. You may wonder, what is the purpose of the Québec Winter Carnival? Well, the carnival is held to aims to celebrate the joys of the winter season with games and competitions.

When is the Quebec Winter Carnival?

The Winter Carnival in Quebec City is usually held at the start of February every year. In 2023, it was held from February 3rd to 12th. Dates have not been announced for 2024. 

Where is the Quebec Winter Carnival?

The Quebec Winter Carnival is held in Quebec City. It's the capital of Quebec, a French-speaking province in Canada's eastern region. Most festival activities take place at the fairgrounds in Old Quebec on the Plains of Abraham. This public park has many exciting attractions to offer. You can enjoy ice workshops, a crazy-bikini snow bathing event, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing trails.

During the carnival, the entire city is decorated with ice sculptures and fairy lights.There are also smaller Carnival events throughout the city that allow all neighbourhoods to be part of the festivities.   

Keep reading or discover more travel inspiration in our brochure. This guide showcases our world-famous train journeys, with ideas for personalizing your Canadian vacation.

What is the History of the Quebec Winter Carnival?

The Quebec Winter Carnival started as a pre-Lenten carnival in New France (now known as Quebec). The Quebec Winter Carnival first ran in 1894 and has always been a festival of all things French-Canadian. Residents chose to embrace the season by organizing fun winter celebrations. The Carnival's program has grown throughout the decades to include thrilling winter sports and activities. This fest also includes traditions honoring the city's French-Canadian roots.

Cold winter temperatures do not deter the 400,000 visitors who flock to this iconic event each February, making it one of the world's largest winter festivals. 

Quebec Winter Carnival mascot

Bonhomme Carnaval is the approved mascot and ambassador of the celebrations. He was presented to the public during the first modern version of the Carnival in 1955. Bonhomme is considered the Canadian cousin of Frosty the Snowman and the formal representative of the Quebec Winter Carnival. You can see Bonhomme throughout the carnival festivities. He proudly wears his favorite red tuque (cap) and traditional Québécois arrow sash. His personality is meant to embody "la Joie de vie," a motto that is dear to Quebecers.

Every year, on the first night of the festival, the mayor of Quebec City hands over the keys to the city to Bonhomme. For the Québécois, Bonhomme is more than a mascot. He is the depiction of the province's proud and joyful spirit. You can pay him a visit at his Ice Palace or see him in one of the parades. He speaks French and English, and even though his name means "good man," he can be a bit mischievous.

What to do at the Quebec Winter Carnival?

There is so much to do at the Quebec Winter Carnival. There are various events for all age groups. You can try all the Canadian stereotypical activities such as ice skating and sledding. If you're feeling adventurous, you can head to crazy events like canoeing through ice chunks!

Everything about this celebration revolves around the various things to do in Quebec City in the winter. During the Quebec Winter Carnival, you can take part in a vast number of events and activities.

Here's a list of things to do at the Quebec Winter Carnival.

Quebec Winter Carnival Daytime Activities

Here are some of the most popular daytime activities at the Quebec City Winter Carnival that you can try:

• Human Foosball
• Dog Sledding
• Sleigh Rides
• Ice Skating
• Becoming a Human Bowling Ball
• Jumping into the Freezing Snow Bath
• Axe Throwing
• Ice Fishing
• Goon's League Hockey
• Toboggan Rides
• Live Entertainment and more.

You must also check out the carnival plan as the event approaches to stay updated on what's going on!

Quebec Winter Carnival Night Time Activities

Many activities take place during the night as well, so you can plan according to your preference:

• The two nighttime parades that are the absolute highlight of the carnival are the Charlesbourg Night Parade and the Upper Town Night Parade. You can participate in them to enjoy the spectacular costumes and performances.
• You can also join the open-air dance party at the Bonhomme Ice Palace. It transforms into a nightclub at night.
• There are many carnival masquerade balls honoring the Winter Carnival held throughout Quebec City to honor the old carnival traditions.

#1 Travel tip: Make time for a food tour

Enjoy local delicacies, meet with food artisans and find out what makes Québec City a top foodie destination on a guided tour.

Children's Activities at Quebec Winter Carnival

The Quebec Winter Carnival has many activities for children that will keep them entertained for hours. Here are some of the top things at the Quebec Winter Carnival for kids to try:

• Theme Park Rides
• Tiny Ice Slide
• Large Playground
• Petting Zoo
• Wall Climbing
• Giant Puppets
• Entertaining Shows
• Puzzle Games
• Floor Hockey.

The fairgrounds of the Quebec Carnival are similar to a winter amusement park and shouldn't be missed.

Quebec Winter Carnival – Competitions 

The Québec Winter Carnival has competitions for almost every interest and attracts contestants from all over the world. The Ice Sculpting Competition, Dog Sled Races, and Ice Canoe Race are some of the most famous competitions at the carnival.

• Ice Canoe Race- The St. Lawrence River hosts the annual Ice Canoe Race. The race features many boats, each with five rowers. The crews face the laborious task of paddling across a half-frozen lake. It is a risky sport in which the team must push, pull, and wrestle ice to reach the finish line. This competition is the world's most prestigious ice canoe race, attracting international teams.
• The International Snow Sculpture Contest- Every year, artists from all over the world travel to Québec to compete for snow-carving dominance. Sculptors transform huge piles of snow into large works of art. You can watch the artists transform the snow into art using chainsaws, shovels, and other tools. You even get a chance to vote on who you think should be crowned ice sculpture champion.
• Dogsled Race- Another serious competition that attracts teams from all over the world is the dog sled race. The sled teams slide through the streets of Old Québec. It differs from most dog sled races, as each team is timed individually rather than competing as a group. The team with the fastest 4-mile course finishing time will be declared the winner.

Apart from these, there are many races and competitions that you can see at the carnival. Not all of them are official events. Some may take place elsewhere in Québec City in celebration of the Québec Winter Carnival.

Events such as winter wrestling, snowmobile races, snowboarding competitions, and Canadian Viking competition are all noteworthy events to attend at the Québec Winter Festival.

Where to Stay During the Quebec Winter Carnival?

For your convenience, we have chosen hotels with good amenities and conveniently located near the festival venues.

These hotels offer many amenities. They are located near restaurants, shopping, attractions, and Québec Winter Carnival venues.

1. Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

An opulent heritage hotel, this is located in Old Québec, near many popular destinations and Winter Carnival venues. The hotel boasts stylish rooms that offer breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River. Large windows, a bathrobe, a coffee maker, free toiletries, air conditioning, cable TV, and a hairdryer are standard in all rooms. A fantastic spa offering a variety of services, a hot tub, three onsite restaurants, an indoor pool, a sauna, concierge services, a fitness center, and an onsite Starbucks are among the amenities you can avail of. There is a fee-based public parking garage on-site, as well as a valet service.

#2 Travel tip: Tour the Hotel du Glace

Even if you aren't staying at the famous ice hotel, you can book a tour of the impressive structure.

2. Hotel Boutique Ophelia

The Hotel Boutique Ophelia is one of the finest hotels in Québec. It is only a 2-minute walk to a handful of the main venues of the carnival and less than a 10-minute walk to the Plains of Abraham, where other events are taking place. Accommodations at the Hotel Boutique Ophelia include air conditioning, free toiletries, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a coffee machine, a flat-screen TV with streaming channels, a minibar, free Wi-Fi, and robes and slippers. This fantastic boutique hotel has an onsite ATM as well as two restaurants serving dinner and cocktails. Cookies in the lobby and small locally-made welcome kits are a nice extra touch to your stay. There is also on-site parking for a fee.

3. Hotel Palace Royal

You are just steps away from the fortress walls of Old Québec. The walls are located next to the ice skating rink at Place d'Youville. The air-conditioned rooms at Hotel Palace Royal include a flat-screen TV with cable channels, toiletries, a coffee machine, free Wi-Fi, and much more. Some units include a dining table, a separate bedroom, and an internal balcony with views of the pool. An indoor swimming pool with a hot tub, sauna, fitness center, shared lounge with concierge service, vending machines, an onsite gift shop, a TV area, and an onsite restaurant are among the amenities. For a fee, onsite parking and valet service are also available.

4. Hilton Québec

The Hilton Québec is only a 5-minute walk from Old Québec's walled city. Many touristic spots, as well as Winter Carnival venues, are within walking distance of the hotel. Hilton Québec rooms are well-appointed and include a flat-screen TV with cable channels, free toiletries, a refrigerator, a coffee maker, and a hairdryer. Many of the Hilton's rooms have views of the Laurentian Mountains and the St. Lawrence River. A rooftop heated outdoor pool with a fitness center, currency exchange, a bar, a concierge desk, a sauna, and one onsite restaurant are among the amenities. For a fee, onsite public car parks and valet services are available.

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5. auberge place d'armes.

The Auberge Place d'Armes is situated on the corner of Québec's only two pedestrian streets. It's close to several popular attractions. The Auberge Place d'Armes provides air-conditioned guest rooms. It's equipped with a refrigerator, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a coffee maker, Wi-Fi, a hairdryer, and free toiletries. The Place d'Armes rooms also have luxurious goosedown comforters for guests to enjoy. The amenities also include a concierge service, a tour desk, and an onsite restaurant. There is free public parking available nearby.

6. Hotel Clarendon

The Hotel Clarendon, built in 1870, is a historic hotel in the heart of Old Québec. You can take advantage of the area's wonderful restaurants, boutiques, and shops. This Hotel provides air-conditioned rooms with a TV, a coffee maker, free Wi-Fi, and more. Every room has a comfortable seating area. A concierge service, baggage storage, and an onsite restaurant are among the amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 5 activities worth partaking in at the québec winter carnival.

The 5 activities out of the many at the Québec Winter Carnival are- 1. Meeting Bonhomme 2. Visiting the Ice Palace 3. Enjoying a glass of Caribou, a sweet Carnival cocktail 4. Watching the ice canoe Races 5. Checking out the Night Parades

What happens at the winter carnival in Québec?

Key events at the carnival include ice canoeing, snowshoeing, and other winter activities that have long been a part of Québec culture. There is also night parades, snow-sculpture competitions and music shows.

Where in Québec City is the winter carnival?

The fairgrounds on the historic Plains of Abraham serve as the main venue for the Québec Carnival. The fairgrounds are a short walk from Old Québec's streets.

How much does it cost to go to the Québec Winter Carnival?

To enter the festival grounds, you must usually buy an effigy. It usually costs around $15–25 depending on when you buy it. It is a cute little necessary trinket that you carry as proof that you paid the admission fee. You can also buy a carnival passport for about $50. Besides your effigy, this will usually come with maple taffy and a glass of Caribou. It will also contain a plethora of other coupons that can save you a significant amount of money.

What do you wear to a Québec Winter Carnival?

Dress in layers, beginning with a thin, wicking layer. Then progress to fleece and a waterproof shell. Wear a hat, scarf, mitts, warm socks, and insulated and waterproof boots as well.

About the author: Athena McKenzie is the Managing Editor at Fresh Tracks Canada. An experienced lifestyle journalist, she has written about travel, design, arts and entertainment. Her work has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Zoomer Magazine, Elle Canada and...   Read more

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The ultimate guide to the Quebec Winter Carnival in 2024

by Tamara Elliott · November 2, 2023

A seven foot tall snowman. Massive ice sculptures. A drink that will knock your socks off, insane events like ice canoeing and a lively nighttime parade.

Those are just a few of the things visitors can expect at the Quebec Winter Carnival in 2024 ( Carnaval de Quebec ), which is one of the world’s most famous winter festivals.

This post may contain affiliate links, which Globe Guide receives compensation for with each click or purchase at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

For decades, the historic city has welcomed revellers to join the party which goes from the end of January to mid-February, making it one of the best things to do in Quebec City in winter . This year’s festivities last for 18 days (up from the usual 10), from January 25 to February 11, 2024.

While there’s a long list of events to keep everyone entertained, it’s safe to say that the highlight for most is still an encounter with Bonhomme, that jolly ambassador who’s even more revered than Santa in the eyes of some youngsters who will be celebrating his 70th anniversary in 2024.

So how does one make the most of their festival experience? Here’s the ultimate guide to enjoying the Quebec City Winter Carnival.

Table of Contents

Best Quebec Winter Carnival activities

The Quebec City carnival has a dizzying amount of activities for all ages, and most of them are included with admission. There’s a whole list of new attractions for 2024, including Slide City, which will take over thrill hills and festival-goers can zoom down on crazy carpets, saucers, rafting boats and tubes.

There’s also a 45-foot tall ice climbing bear, a sculpture garden, a masked ball at the iconic Château Frontenac , and a zipline at Bonhomme’s Campground.

“Our theme this year is an invitation to participate in the festivities, using a very Quebecois expression, “ Déguédine, pis sors! ” which means hurry and go out!” says Marie-Eve Jacob, general manager of the Quebec Winter Carnival.. “Go out sliding down the city hills, go out dancing at the Ice Palace, go out and celebrate at Bonhomme’s Masked Ball, go out and play in the snow!”

Perhaps one of the best things about the Winter Carnival is how family friendly it is, and there’s a huge play area aimed at keeping little ones happy.

What to eat at the Winter Carnival

What the heck is a Caribou, you ask? Uh, pretty much the greatest drink ever for anyone north of the 49th parallel.

Caribou is a mixed drink very similar to mulled wine, usually made with red wine, brandy, anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves and maple syrup. Served hot or cold, the result is a bevy that’s guaranteed to get your insides tingling and ward off the winter cold.

Another festival favourite is maple taffy, which is cooked maple syrup drizzled over snow. After about 30 seconds it begins to harden, which is the perfect time to roll it up on a wooden stick, essentially making a sweet maple lollipop.

Fun events at the Winter Carnival

While most Winter Carnival festivities are situated in front of the Parliament building, a number of events take place in other areas around Quebec City in an effort to include all communities.

One of them is the Charlesbourg Night Parade, a spirited procession that includes decked-out floats, dancing, singing, and of course an appearance by Bonhomme.

Night Parades will once again bring Carnival magic to both Lower and Upper Quebec City. Bonhomme has planned high-spirited, colourful and surprising sequences for his birthday.

In 2024, the first parade takes place at 5:30 pm on Saturday, February 3 in Limoilou, and the second parade is on Saturday, February 10 on Grande Allée, starting at 7 p.m.

Cheer on paddlers during the ice canoe race

If you think rowing is hard work, try doing it through frozen ice chunks.

That’s exactly what hundreds of hardy souls do during the annual ice canoe race on the St. Lawrence River. Sometimes lasting up to three hours, the race sees boats with five rowers hit multiple spots along the course while battling ever-moving massive ice flows.

To get past them, rowers are often forced to stick their feet into the frigid water, and essentially skate along the ice in an attempt to get the canoe back into the water. After witnessing this contest, the rowing machine in the gym doesn’t seem so bad after all!

2024 marks the 130th anniversary of the ice canoe race, and will be held on February 4th at the Port of Québec.

See the international Snow Sculpture Competition

Back at the Carnaval grounds, the International Snow Sculpture Competition is always a crowd favourite.

Pitting competitors from around the world against each other in a bid for snow carving superiority, the tradition sees sculptors work around the clock to transform a huge pile of snow into the masterpiece of their choosing—and the public is even allowed to vote for who should be crowned the champion.

Visit Bonhomme’s Ice Palace

No visit to the Winter Carnival would be complete without visiting Bonhomme’s Ice Palace. Featuring a different theme each year, the frozen castle includes exhibits tracing Carnaval’s history, as well as an up-close look at the snowman’s crash pad.

Spoiler alert: Bonhomme is kind of a bad host and there’s no guarantee that he’ll show up to his own house party, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for him just in case.

What to wear to the Winter Carnival

There’s no way to sugar coat it—Quebec City can be bloody freezing during winter. While temperatures can fluctuate, some years have seen the mercury drop to around -20 celsius—so cold that even a couple glasses of Caribou won’t ward it off!

Happy volunteers at the Winter Carnival.

With that in mind, visitors should layer up. Start with a breathable base layer (not cotton), then add a cozy sweater, parka, mitts, toque (that’s a hat, for you non-Canadians) and warm winter boots with good grip. Snowpants are also recommended, and it’s a good idea to bring along packs of  Little Hotties  hand and toe warmers.

Finally, don’t forget the ultimate Carnaval accessory: the arrow sash. Traditionally tied around the waist with the knot on the left side, sashes can be purchased in shops around Quebec City for about $20. Bonhomme will be proud!

Quebec Winter Carnival tips

Price: Guests aged 12 and over are required to buy and wear a Bonhomme-themed Effigy, which costs $20 ahead of time or $30 as of January 15th. Carnival packages are also available for a pre-sale price of $55, which includes things an Effigy, toque, Carnival touque, a hot beverage and a cup of Ponce du Carnaval or a non-alcoholic beverage

Where to stay in Quebec City: Can’t nab a room at the ice hotel? The festival is located just outside the walls surrounding the historic centre, which means it’s an easy walk from any hotel in Vieux-Quebec. However you can’t beat the Hilton Quebec when it comes to location, as the hotel is right across the street from the grounds and many rooms offer great views of the Ice Palace. Click here to book

Top tip: To really get into the spirit of things, head to one of the on-site bars and purchase a Caribou. But not just any Caribou—a huge hollow stick shaped like a candy cane filled to the brim with Caribou, that you can walk around with!

More things to do in Quebec City in winter

The festive fun doesn’t end with Carnival: there are so many ways to enjoy winter in Quebec City, like soaking in one of the nordic spas , playing at Village Vacances Valcartier and even sleeping in an ice hotel!

Check out this complete guide to winter activities in Quebec City , and sign up for one of these tours:

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:

• A snowy stay at Hôtel de Glace, the Quebec City ice hotel
• Sibéria Spa: Quebec City’s ultimate spot for relaxation
• Fun things to do at Village Vacances Valcartier near Quebec City
• A daredevil day: Fun things to do in Laval, Quebec

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Tags: North America Quebec

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What can you buy? What are some decorations? Is their music? What other shows go on? Doesn’t matter if they’re not major ones.

OJ Simpson from the Simpsons HAHA!

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[…] trip to Quebec City during winter is complete without celebrating the Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Quebec). The annual event features massive snow sculptures, family-friendly rides and activities, street […]

[…] This article has been publish first by Tamara Elliott. See the full article here. […]

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[…] The Carnival de Quebec, or Quebec City’s Winter Carnival, is known worldwide for its celebration of all things winter. Picture a seven-foot-tall snowman, massive ice sculptures that are incredibly intricate, ice canoeing, parades, and all the hot cocoa you can imagine. […]

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The Québec Winter Carnival 2023 | Ultimate Guide (2023)

Home True North Blog

By Athena McKenzie

Feb 9, 2023

There's nothing like a trip tp Quebec City to experience one of the world's largest winter carnivals. The annual Quebec City Winter Carnival celebrates the best things about the Canadian winter. Nearly 400,000 visitors attend each year, enjoying a variety of events. There are activities for all ages, such as night parades, snow sculpture contests, and ice skating. This family-friendly winter celebration occurs in the provincial capital of Quebec City. Visitors can also spend time exploring historic Old Quebec, which feels like it could be in Europe.

The experts at Canadian Train Vacations have helped put together this guide to the Quebec City Winter Carnival. If you want to attend, they can help plan your trip.

Here's everything you need to know about attending the Quebec City Winter Carnival 2023, along with some Québec Winter Carnival facts .

What is the Quebec Winter Carnival?

Carnaval de Quebec is also known as the Quebec Winter Carnival. It is the world's largest winter carnival. It's like Mardi Gras but set in the winter wonderland of Quebec, Canada. This two-week celebration occurs in the middle of February every year.

It is the oldest winter festival in Canada. The Carnaval de Québec has been held in some form since 1894. Since 1955, it has been an officially recognized annual tradition. You may wonder, what is the purpose of the Québec Winter Carnival? Well, the carnival is held to aims to celebrate the joys of the winter season with games and competitions.

When is the Quebec Winter Carnival?

The Winter Carnival in Quebec City is usually held at the start of February every year. In 2023, it was held from February 3rd to 12th. Dates have not been announced for 2024.

Where is the Quebec Winter Carnival?

The Quebec Winter Carnival is held in Quebec City. It's the capital of Quebec, a French-speaking province in Canada's eastern region. Most festival activities take place at the fairgrounds in Old Quebec on the Plains of Abraham. This public park has many exciting attractions to offer. You can enjoy ice workshops, a crazy-bikini snow bathing event, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing trails.

During the carnival, the entire city is decorated with ice sculptures and fairy lights.There are also smaller Carnival events throughout the city that allow all neighbourhoods to be part of the festivities.

Keep reading or discover more travel inspiration in our brochure. This guide showcases our world-famous train journeys, with ideas for personalizing your Canadian vacation.

What is the History of the Quebec Winter Carnival?

The Quebec Winter Carnival started as a pre-Lenten carnival in New France (now known as Quebec). The Quebec Winter Carnival first ran in 1894 and has always been a festival of all things French-Canadian. Residents chose to embrace the season by organizing fun winter celebrations. The Carnival's program has grown throughout the decades to include thrilling winter sports and activities. This fest also includes traditions honoring the city's French-Canadian roots.

Cold winter temperatures do not deter the 400,000 visitors who flock to this iconic event each February, making it one of the world's largest winter festivals.

Quebec Winter Carnival mascot

Bonhomme Carnaval is the approved mascot and ambassador of the celebrations. He was presented to the public during the first modern version of the Carnival in 1955. Bonhomme is considered the Canadian cousin of Frosty the Snowman and the formal representative of the Quebec Winter Carnival. You can see Bonhomme throughout the carnival festivities. He proudly wears his favorite red tuque (cap) and traditional Québécois arrow sash. His personality is meant to embody "la Joie de vie," a motto that is dear to Quebecers.

Every year, on the first night of the festival, the mayor of Quebec City hands over the keys to the city to Bonhomme. For the Québécois, Bonhomme is more than a mascot. He is the depiction of the province's proud and joyful spirit. You can pay him a visit at his Ice Palace or see him in one of the parades. He speaks French and English, and even though his name means "good man," he can be a bit mischievous.

What to do at the Quebec Winter Carnival?

There is so much to do at the Quebec Winter Carnival. There are various events for all age groups. You can try all the Canadian stereotypical activities such as ice skating and sledding. If you're feeling adventurous, you can head to crazy events like canoeing through ice chunks!

Everything about this celebration revolves around the various things to do in Quebec City in the winter. During the Quebec Winter Carnival, you can take part in a vast number of events and activities.

Here's a list of things to do at the Quebec Winter Carnival.

Quebec Winter Carnival Daytime Activities

Here are some of the most popular daytime activities at the Quebec City Winter Carnival that you can try:

• Human Foosball
• Dog Sledding
• Sleigh Rides
• Ice Skating
• Becoming a Human Bowling Ball
• Jumping into the Freezing Snow Bath
• Axe Throwing
• Ice Fishing
• Goon's League Hockey
• Toboggan Rides
• Live Entertainment and more.

You must also check out the carnival plan as the event approaches to stay updated on what's going on!

Quebec Winter Carnival Night Time Activities

Many activities take place during the night as well, so you can plan according to your preference:

• The two nighttime parades that are the absolute highlight of the carnival are the Charlesbourg Night Parade and the Upper Town Night Parade. You can participate in them to enjoy the spectacular costumes and performances.
• You can also join the open-air dance party at the Bonhomme Ice Palace. It transforms into a nightclub at night.
• There are many carnival masquerade balls honoring the Winter Carnival held throughout Quebec City to honor the old carnival traditions.

#1 Travel tip: Make time for a food tour

Enjoy local delicacies, meet with food artisans and find out what makes Québec City a top foodie destination on a guided tour.

Athena McKenzie

Managing Editor

Children's Activities at Quebec Winter Carnival

The Quebec Winter Carnival has many activities for children that will keep them entertained for hours. Here are some of the top things at the Quebec Winter Carnival for kids to try:

• Theme Park Rides
• Tiny Ice Slide
• Large Playground
• Petting Zoo
• Wall Climbing
• Giant Puppets
• Entertaining Shows
• Puzzle Games
• Floor Hockey.

The fairgrounds of the Quebec Carnival are similar to a winter amusement park and shouldn't be missed.

Quebec Winter Carnival – Competitions

The Québec Winter Carnival has competitions for almost every interest and attracts contestants from all over the world. The Ice Sculpting Competition, Dog Sled Races, and Ice Canoe Race are some of the most famous competitions at the carnival.

• Ice Canoe Race- The St. Lawrence River hosts the annual Ice Canoe Race. The race features many boats, each with five rowers. The crews face the laborious task of paddling across a half-frozen lake. It is a risky sport in which the team must push, pull, and wrestle ice to reach the finish line. This competition is the world's most prestigious ice canoe race, attracting international teams.
• The International Snow Sculpture Contest- Every year, artists from all over the world travel to Québec to compete for snow-carving dominance. Sculptors transform huge piles of snow into large works of art. You can watch the artists transform the snow into art using chainsaws, shovels, and other tools. You even get a chance to vote on who you think should be crowned ice sculpture champion.
• Dogsled Race- Another serious competition that attracts teams from all over the world is the dog sled race. The sled teams slide through the streets of Old Québec. It differs from most dog sled races, as each team is timed individually rather than competing as a group. The team with the fastest 4-mile course finishing time will be declared the winner.

Apart from these, there are many races and competitions that you can see at the carnival. Not all of them are official events. Some may take place elsewhere in Québec City in celebration of the Québec Winter Carnival.

Events such as winter wrestling, snowmobile races, snowboarding competitions, and Canadian Viking competition are all noteworthy events to attend at the Québec Winter Festival.

Where to Stay During the Quebec Winter Carnival?

For your convenience, we have chosen hotels with good amenities and conveniently located near the festival venues.

These hotels offer many amenities. They are located near restaurants, shopping, attractions, and Québec Winter Carnival venues.

1. Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

An opulent heritage hotel, this is located in Old Québec, near many popular destinations and Winter Carnival venues. The hotel boasts stylish rooms that offer breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River. Large windows, a bathrobe, a coffee maker, free toiletries, air conditioning, cable TV, and a hairdryer are standard in all rooms. A fantastic spa offering a variety of services, a hot tub, three onsite restaurants, an indoor pool, a sauna, concierge services, a fitness center, and an onsite Starbucks are among the amenities you can avail of. There is a fee-based public parking garage on-site, as well as a valet service.

#2 Travel tip: Tour the Hotel du Glace

Even if you aren't staying at the famous ice hotel, you can book a tour of the impressive structure.

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2. Hotel Boutique Ophelia

The Hotel Boutique Ophelia is one of the finest hotels in Québec. It is only a 2-minute walk to a handful of the main venues of the carnival and less than a 10-minute walk to the Plains of Abraham, where other events are taking place. Accommodations at the Hotel Boutique Ophelia include air conditioning, free toiletries, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a coffee machine, a flat-screen TV with streaming channels, a minibar, free Wi-Fi, and robes and slippers. This fantastic boutique hotel has an onsite ATM as well as two restaurants serving dinner and cocktails. Cookies in the lobby and small locally-made welcome kits are a nice extra touch to your stay. There is also on-site parking for a fee.

3. Hotel Palace Royal

You are just steps away from the fortress walls of Old Québec. The walls are located next to the ice skating rink at Place d'Youville. The air-conditioned rooms at Hotel Palace Royal include a flat-screen TV with cable channels, toiletries, a coffee machine, free Wi-Fi, and much more. Some units include a dining table, a separate bedroom, and an internal balcony with views of the pool. An indoor swimming pool with a hot tub, sauna, fitness center, shared lounge with concierge service, vending machines, an onsite gift shop, a TV area, and an onsite restaurant are among the amenities. For a fee, onsite parking and valet service are also available.

4. Hilton Québec

The Hilton Québec is only a 5-minute walk from Old Québec's walled city. Many touristic spots, as well as Winter Carnival venues, are within walking distance of the hotel. Hilton Québec rooms are well-appointed and include a flat-screen TV with cable channels, free toiletries, a refrigerator, a coffee maker, and a hairdryer. Many of the Hilton's rooms have views of the Laurentian Mountains and the St. Lawrence River. A rooftop heated outdoor pool with a fitness center, currency exchange, a bar, a concierge desk, a sauna, and one onsite restaurant are among the amenities. For a fee, onsite public car parks and valet services are available.

5. Auberge Place d'Armes

The Auberge Place d'Armes is situated on the corner of Québec's only two pedestrian streets. It's close to several popular attractions. The Auberge Place d'Armes provides air-conditioned guest rooms. It's equipped with a refrigerator, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a coffee maker, Wi-Fi, a hairdryer, and free toiletries. The Place d'Armes rooms also have luxurious goosedown comforters for guests to enjoy. The amenities also include a concierge service, a tour desk, and an onsite restaurant. There is free public parking available nearby.

6. Hotel Clarendon

The Hotel Clarendon, built in 1870, is a historic hotel in the heart of Old Québec. You can take advantage of the area's wonderful restaurants, boutiques, and shops. This Hotel provides air-conditioned rooms with a TV, a coffee maker, free Wi-Fi, and more. Every room has a comfortable seating area. A concierge service, baggage storage, and an onsite restaurant are among the amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 5 activities worth partaking in at the québec winter carnival.

The 5 activities out of the many at the Québec Winter Carnival are-1. Meeting Bonhomme2. Visiting the Ice Palace3. Enjoying a glass of Caribou, a sweet Carnival cocktail4. Watching the ice canoe Races5. Checking out the Night Parades

What happens at the winter carnival in Québec?

Key events at the carnival include ice canoeing, snowshoeing, and other winter activities that have long been a part of Québec culture. There is also night parades, snow-sculpture competitions and music shows.

Where in Québec City is the winter carnival?

The fairgrounds on the historic Plains of Abraham serve as the main venue for the Québec Carnival. The fairgrounds are a short walk from Old Québec's streets.

How much does it cost to go to the Québec Winter Carnival?

To enter the festival grounds, you must usually buy an effigy. It usually costs around $15–25 depending on when you buy it. It is a cute little necessary trinket that you carry as proof that you paid the admission fee. You can also buy a carnival passport for about $50. Besides your effigy, this will usually come with maple taffy and a glass of Caribou. It will also contain a plethora of other coupons that can save you a significant amount of money.

What do you wear to a Québec Winter Carnival?

Dress in layers, beginning with a thin, wicking layer. Then progress to fleece and a waterproof shell. Wear a hat, scarf, mitts, warm socks, and insulated and waterproof boots as well.

About the Author : Athena McKenzie is the Managing Editor at Fresh Tracks Canada. An experienced travel and lifestyle journalist, she has written for several Canadian publications, including The Globe and Mail , the Toronto Star , and Zoomer Magazine , where she was a contributing editor… [ Read more ]

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The Québec Winter Carnival 2023 | Ultimate Guide? ›

To enter the festival grounds, you must usually buy an effigy. It usually costs around $15–25 depending on when you buy it. It is a cute little necessary trinket that you carry as proof that you paid the admission fee.

Admission (effigy): Effigy is on sale for $15 (plus taxes) until January 15, 2023, at participating Couche-Tard stores and on the Carnival website. From January 16, 2023, the price will be $25 (plus tax) .

Ice canoes, snowshoes, dogsledding, snowmen, snow forts, slides, skating , and other winter sports have long been part of Québec culture. They are all a key part of the carnival and help it feel authentic to visitors for whom ice-cold winters are more of a novelty.

It's the world's oldest Winter Carnival, the largest Winter Carnival in the Western hemisphere, and it attracts one million visitors annually !

From participating in fun activities to marveling at the beautiful ice sculptures, there are many reasons to travel to Quebec City in the winter. If you've decided to visit Canada this time of year, checking out the Quebec Winter Carnival is the one thing you must do.

An effigy is an often life-size sculptural representation of a specific person, or a prototypical figure. The term is mostly used for the makeshift dummies used for symbolic punishment in political protests and for the figures burned in certain traditions around New Year, Carnival and Easter .

We highly recommend wearing thermal underwear, snow pants, warm boots, a variety of layers, a winter jacket, gloves, and a toque . You may also wish to buy a festive Winter Carnival toque, which is what we did! For more on what to wear, check out our article about what to wear during the winter in Canada.

1) Dress Warmly Quebec City can get extremely cold during the winter, so make sure to wear layers of warm clothing, including a good winter coat, hat, gloves, and boots . It's better to be over-prepared than underprepared for the weather.

Quebec City's Winter Carnival is the largest and most popular winter celebration in the world.

Is there ice skating at Québec Winter Carnival? ›

Ice Skate at Place D'Youville At the Place D'Youville in the center of Old Québec, the outdoor skating rink is a popular activity not just for the Winter Carnival, but throughout the entire season.

The Québec Winter Carnival is the largest winter festival in the world and ranks third among all major carnivals , after Rio and New Orleans.

Bonhomme is described as a seven-foot-tall, four-hundred pound snowman sporting a red cap, black buttons and a ceinture fléchée that gives acknowledgement to French-Canadian and Métis style clothing. It is traditional to drink Caribou, a hot alcoholic beverage, to keep warm.

Most of the activities at the Quebec Winter Carnival are included in the cost of admission . To enter the Carnival Grounds, you will have to purchase and wear a Bonhomme effigy, which is your ticket.

The Fiesta de Carnaval is often the most popular celebration, usually held over three days prior to Ash Wednesday, but the festivities often extend to the full week . This festival "always includes music, dancing, costumes and parades".

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Nobody throws a party quite like Brazil, and there's no Brazilian party quite like Rio Carnaval. It's the world's largest Carnival celebration, attracting participants in the millions for a week of explosive, flamboyant, samba-shaking fun.

An effigy is an often life-size sculptural representation of a specific person, or a prototypical figure . The term is mostly used for the makeshift dummies used for symbolic punishment in political protests and for the figures burned in certain traditions around New Year, Carnival and Easter.

While Arm Effigy burns for only 10 minutes, Custom effigy with the same amount of materials burns for 17:35 minutes. Maximum burning time for effigy is 20 minutes so adding a large amount of materials is unnecessary.

Price: Guests aged 8 and over are required to buy and wear a Bonhomme-themed Effigy, which costs around $10 ahead of time or $15 at the door .

The Romanesque effigies were typically carved from white marble, and depict the deceased's body and face as they appeared as in life, with no marks of illness or death . The faces are idealised rather than accurate portrayals, and often show the deceased much younger than they had been at death.

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The 10 Best Things to Do at the Québec Winter Carnival

Getty Images / Stuart Gregory

The Québec Winter Carnival is a family event in the provincial capital, Québec City , that celebrates winter to the fullest. In fact, it's the world's biggest winter carnival. The locals simply call it Carnaval , in both French and English. Everyone is welcome, and don't worry if you don't speak French: People working in tourism or the restaurant sector will happily speak English.

Québec's Winter Carnival takes place over 17 days in  late January and early February with big events such as parades and outdoor concerts scheduled on the three weekends. Visiting families can have fun at the Carnival and also take the opportunity to explore historic Old Québec, which feels like a mini-trip to Europe.

If you're planning a trip, here's what to put on your itinerary.

Watch Snow and Ice Sculptures Being Carved

The Québec Winter Carnival showcases amazing snow sculptures and visitors have several opportunities to see the sculptures being carved. During the Carnival's opening weekend, sculptors are hard at work on their creations. This year, visitors can see over 100 different sculptures around the city along a designated route, including the Petit Champlain district and the Old Port. Download the Winter Carnival app to play a game and log as many sculptures as you can find. The colder the temperature outside when you log them, the more points you get, as a bonus for participants who can truly brave the cold.

Ice Skate at Place D'Youville

" IMG_9933" ( CC BY-SA 2.0) by bsf1499

At the Place D'Youville in the center of Old Québec, the outdoor skating rink is a popular activity not just for the Winter Carnival, but throughout the entire season. If you can withstand the cold of being outside, moving around on skates while bundled up is a great way to stay warm, ideally followed by a cup of hot chocolate, tea, or a Winter Carnival Caribou—a hot drink of wine, brandy, and maple syrup.

Apart from the Carnival, the Place D'Youville ice rink is open every year from early December to mid-March, with no admission fee and no online reservations necessary.

Explore Historic Québec City

Families visiting Québec City during Carnival have a wonderful opportunity to explore the charming streets. Visiting Québec City is like a mini-trip to Europe, with architecture dating back centuries and having one of the few walled cities in North America. Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the center of New France, a vast area that once extended to Louisiana. One of the decisive battles between Britain and France took place here in 1759, on the Plains of Abraham where the Winter Carnival usually takes place.

See Bonhomme and the Opening Night Ceremonies

Bonhomme (full name,  Bonhomme Carnaval ) is the Carnival's official ambassador. Bonhomme's image is everywhere and, most notably, every year a new small figurine of Bonhomme is created, and this "effigy" is worn by all Carnival visitors for admission to the fairgrounds and other venues.

However, there is only one life-sized Bonhomme figure, and whenever he makes an appearance, families embrace him for photo ops.

In recent years, the Carnival's first night has featured opening ceremonies followed by an outdoor concert and fireworks. The ceremonies may not be the best experiences for English-speaking visitors, but families can roam the amusements at the fairgrounds while waiting for the fireworks.

Tour the Ice Palace

The Ice Palace has been Bonhomme's official residence since the first Québec Carnival in 1955. Each year, its appearance is a little different. The location is just a few steps from the Carnival grounds and opposite the impressive Parliament Building of Québec.

During the day, Bonhomme often makes appearances at the Ice Palace for photo ops. The Ice Palace becomes an entertainment venue at night during the weekends of the Québec Carnival. Day or night, visitors can tour inside.

Reach New Heights on the Ferris Wheel

The main venue for the Québec Carnival is the fairgrounds on the historic Plains of Abraham. The fairgrounds are just a short walk from the streets of Old Québec.

The fairgrounds for the Québec Carnival are like a winter amusement park, with lots of fun things for kids to do. Popular attractions have included an ice castle complete with an ice slide, as well as standard fun like a Ferris Wheel and bouncy houses.

Snow rafting on the slopes has been a perennial favorite at the Québec Winter Carnival. Visitors do need to pay a small fee for this and a few other premium rides. Little kids, meanwhile, have their own place to slide down the snow, on a tube run in the play zone.

Become a Human Foosball Player

Teresa Plowright

The fairgrounds have a bunch of fun things for little kids to do: a mini-slide, play structures for tots, and an indoor game zone. The attractions may change year-to-year, but families are sure to find plenty to amuse kids of all ages, including a foosball game with real people.

Take a Sleigh Ride Through the City

Horses await the start of a short jaunt through the snow. The  maple sugar shack is a family favorite, where a dollop of liquid maple sugar is poured onto snow and it instantly hardens into a treat.

Eat Beaver Tails

" IMG_1694" ( CC BY-ND 2.0) by johnsons531

A trip to Winter Carnival is the perfect chance to taste "Beaver Tails," aka  Queues de Castor,  a delicious sort of donut that's flat and shaped like, you guessed it, a beaver's tail.

Families can find a classier place to get these classic confections in the lower town of Old Québec, next to the restaurant "Cochon Dingue," which is a well-known place to enjoy a meal or hot chocolate. The carnival fairgrounds, meanwhile, typically offer several options, including a BBQ shack and a place to eat indoors.

Watch the Races and Parades

The dog sled race, held on the first weekend of the Québec Winter Carnival, is one of several events that take place outside the Carnival fairgrounds. This race begins and ends in the streets of Old Québec near the landmark Chateau Frontenac, just a short walk from the festival grounds.

Spectators can also watch the finalists in an annual Canoe Race across the icy St. Laurence River. The location is the Bassin Louise in the Port of Québec.

Another fun thing for families to do while visiting Québec City is to take an inexpensive ferry ride across the St. Laurence River to the town of Levi and back. The ferry runs frequently, and the boarding place is very near to the lower town of Old Québec. In winter, the short ride is a dramatic one, with the river full of ice.

Some years the Québec Winter Carnival has offered night parades in two locations. You may also find a daytime parade with giant inflatable characters.

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Québec Winter Carnival: The Ultimate Guide!

Last Updated: January 17, 2023

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

2023 UPDATE: The post below was originally written in 2014, and updated extensively after a second visit in 2020. The information below is based on previous years and is presented for your reference only.

To innocent onlookers, Canada often takes on this magical aura of a snowy wonderland, where maple scented streets are filled with children shuffling around in neon-coloured onesies… where parents lovingly look on and sip hot  double doubles , all while secretly checking hockey scores on their phones.

And while often, I dispute such stereotypes with the fury of a hockey-crazed moose, I know there is a time and place where all Canadian stereotypes go to thrive, and it’s called the Québec Winter Carnival.

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I’m talking maple syrup flowing like champagne, canoe races in icy rivers, freezing snow baths, entire castles made of ice, and of course: a permanently smiling snowman ambassador known as Bonhomme (which translates to “Good Man”).

Growing up attending a French school on the west coast of Canada (as far as possible from the actual festival site), every January of mine for 10 years was highlighted by the start day of Carnival. I’d put on my fluffiest coat, head outside my school and wait anxiously for Bonhomme to arrive on a bright red firetruck.

… So okay, so maybe my school took some artistic liberty in adapting the traditions, but it was a big deal to me, okay?

Fast forward 10 years later, I was finally able to make my Carnival dreams come true, visiting the  actual  festivities in January 2014… and again in February 2020! (Yup, super recently, so you know this guide is up to date!)

So, armed with the most recent info (and some glitzy throwback pics), here is a guide to experiencing the oh so famous Québec Winter Carnival, or if you wanna get Frenchy – the Carnaval de Québec. 

PS: Hungry? Check out my Québec Carnaval food guide too!

PS: Watch my Quebec Winter Carnival video guide here:

Where to Stay During the Québec Winter Carnival

First – if you haven’t done so already, I highly recommend you book yourself some accommodation for Carnaval ASAP. This is a very popular time to be in the city, so hotel prices will go up accordingly. Here are some recommendations:

AirBNB: For our visit this year, we booked this very affordable Airbnb less than 15 minutes walk from the main festivities.

The Hilton Québec: This is where I stayed during my first visit and it was perfect – a super central location within walking distance to all points of interest and festival sites, plus excellent views. Because we booked early, we snagged a great deal too so I definitely would recommend staying here. Click here to check prices and availability.

The Québec Winter Carnival: A Brief History

Widely recognized as one of the world’s largest winter festivals, the Québec Winter Carnival , or Carnaval de Québec,  is an annual tradition that brings thousands of visitors together for French Canadian festivities.

The first Québec Winter Carnival was held in 1894. How did it all start?

Well, supposedly, the festivities were inspired by the harsh winters of the area, with residents turning to creating fun celebrations to “warm their hearts during the cold season”.

Held on and off for several years, the modern iteration of Carnival began in 1955 (alongside the introduction of Bonhomme!) It has since become one of the biggest events of the year in French Canada.

So, you see, Carnival is a pretty big deal.

When I had the chance to visit Québec during my university Reading Break, my childhood self was shaking in her parka. Sure, I’m overly excitable on the worst of days (I blame it on the maple syrup running through my veins), but this was next-level.

Keep in mind, every Carnival period of my childhood (from Kindergarten to the end of high school) was spent playing Francophone games, belting out Québecois folk songs and doing folk dances where I had to touch the hands of actual human boys (a groundbreaking development).

I had been training for half my life to see this event!

My first shocker… just a PSA for you all: Bonhomme  talks.  He has a  voice.  Pictured below was the exact moment I realized this guy had a human voice. Growing up, Bonhomme never spoke (probably because they never wanted to give away who was in the suit). Suffice to say, I was shooketh.

What are the dates for the Québec Winter Carnival in 2023?

This year’s Québec Winter Carnival is scheduled to take place from February 3 to 12, 2023.

Click here to learn more about the planned 2023 program.

Where is the Québec Winter Carnival celebrated?

Carnaval is a festival with various activities and events sprawled out across Québec City ( click here for a list of must-dos! ).

Usually, the majority of activities are clustered in the main Festival site near Old Québec, but there are also separate events like balls, brunches and more that occur in various locations around town.

During the festival period, the entire city is also decked out in pretty lights and ice sculptures, so there’s plenty of beauty to drool over.

Click here for the 2023 program

How much does it cost to attend the Québec Winter Carnival?

Usually, to enter the festival site, you have to purchase an effigy ($15-25, depending on when you buy), which is a cute lil (but very mandatory) trinket that you wear as proof that you paid the admission fee.

The good news is, buying the effigy once gets you access to the festival site for the entire festival period, plus it’s usually some kinda cute thing with Bonhomme involved, sooo… best souvenir ever.

Fact: I still have my effigy on this bright red parka of mine, even 4 years later and I intend to keep my new 2020 one on my zipper too until the end of days.

PRO TIP: For 2020, I splurged on the Carnaval Passport which is only $45 and includes your effigy, an awesome Carnaval toque, a maple taffy, a Ponce de Carnaval drink, a hot chocolate/coffee, plus vouchers for a free hot dog, coffee, soda, grand-and-go meal, and pastry from Couche-Tard, as well as other coupons I didn’t even get to use at all! This is a PHENOMENAL deal and I highly recommend getting it because it can save you a ton of money.

You can purchase the effigy/passport in-person or online  on the official website. There are even helpful volunteers selling them around the site too, in addition to the official ticket booths.

Québec Winter Carnival Map & Festival Sites

For your reference, below I will show you the different Carnaval sites that have been used in the past, with photos from 2020.

1. Zone Loto-Québec

Location: Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale

This is the huge area across from the Parliament building where you’ll find Bonhomme’s Ice Palace, Bonhomme meet and greets, the PIXEL experience, the ice slide, the Labyrinth game, the SAQ Bistro, SAQ Ice Bar, beavertails, and the Pepsi Ice Bar. This is downhill from the other two sites, and just above the walls of Old Québec.

2. Camp à Jos Videotron (AKA Jo’s Camp)

Location: Place George V

Jo’s Camp is where you’ll find many of the best known activities and entertainment of the entire Carnaval program, including axe throwing, Goon’s League Hockey, and the Sugar Shack and Hockey-themed mini golf just outside.

You’ll also find a wonderfully decorated ice bar here, along with the warm and cozy Chalet Unibroue where hot drinks and fondue baguettes await! This is also the site of many Carnaval performances, including the shiver-inducing ice wrestling.

3. Versant Nord Christie (AKA Christie North Slope)

Location: Parc de la Francophonie

Located directly across from Jo’s Camp, the Christie North Slope is where you’ll find the festival’s tube slide attractions (including one more shallow slide for the little ones), along with some food and chill-out areas with two food trucks this year, one from Premium Plus selling soup and one from Christie selling deep fried Oreos and smores!

What to do the Carnaval de Québec

Click here for a full list of 21 must-do Carnaval activities

With axe throwing and ice canoes involved, the better question might be “what isn’t  there to do”.

To ensure you are getting the the most up-to-date information on what is being offered this year, you can view a full program and schedule on the main website, or click here to see a more comprehensive list of 21 activities.

To give you a taste of what has been offered in previous years, here are some highlights from my visits in 2014 and 2020:

1. Meet Bonhomme himself

While roaming the site, keep your eyes peeled for festival ambassador Bonhomme,  a walking, talking snowman known for his trademark grin, sash and toque.

Interestingly, I learned that there’s  only one  Bonhomme throughout the whole festival, which means spotting him can be rare.

If you’re keen on getting a photo with him at some point, consult the festival schedule to see where he’ll be throughout the day.

He does several meet and greets at his palace, and is usually present for big Carnaval events like the ice canoe races and parade.

2. Visit Bonhomme’s Ice Palace and the Zone Loto-Québec

Obviously Bonhomme is a snowman who lives in style.

So, naturally, visiting his icy palace is a must! Located right across from the parliament building in the Zone Loto-Québec, this icy wonderland is filled with an impressive ice/snow palace offers plenty of activities, including a fun ice slide, some ice bars, a competitive tilt maze game, and more.

My personal favourite in 2020 was PIXEL – an immersive and nostalgic walkthrough experience of various 80s and 90s video games!

3. Enjoy some delicious maple taffy

Your true Canadian experience isn’t complete without a sweet taste of maple taffy, tire d’erable .

People always think I’m joking when I tell them this, but no, I’m for real… Canadians actually eat boiled maple sap poured on snow. We call it maple taffy, and it’s actually a really cool experience because when it touches the snow, the sap instantly becomes a delicious soft candy that you can pick up with a popsicle stick or fork. Irresistible.

You can get your delicious maple taffy from the Godin Family Sugar Shack just in front of Jo’s Camp in Place George V. If you want a full list of other food experiences at Carnaval, read my full guide on what to eat at the Quebec Winter Carnival .

4. Catch the ice canoe races

One of the most iconic events of the entire Carnival period, and probably one of the most Canadian things ever.

Apparently this is a tradition that has taken place since C arnaval’s first edition, and involves a lot of super strong athletes racing through a river studded with giant chunks of ice.

It’s a little  Titanic  for my liking, but nonetheless one of the must-see events of the festival!

5. Admire the incredible ice sculptures

In past years, seeing the mammouth snow sculptures of the International Snow Sculpture Contest was always a huge Carnaval highlight.

In more recent years, they seem to be placing the emphasis on ice sculptures instead. In 2020, we saw 30 ice sculptures crafted by Sculptures Lepire, themed with “popular animals” AKA beloved cartoon characters like Ratatouille, Babar, and Paddington Bear!

We found them scattered all around Old Québec, particularly in the adorable little neighbourhood of Petit Champlain.

6. Scope out a night parade on Grande Allée

While I didn’t get to see the parade on my first visit in 2014, I got to see it in 2020 and it completely blew my expectations out of the water!

Long story short, for 2020, they reprised the renewed version of the parade which debuted the previous year, with five scenes featuring different artistic disciplines with moving performances ft. circus/media arts, a rock show and even some pyrotechnics thrown in for good measure. 

It was pretty epic, and Bonhomme even makes a grand appearance 😉

I would recommend bundling up really warm because the pacing of the parade is a bit awkward, and there is some wait time for it to begin/between floats, but we arrived 20 minutes before 7pm and lined up close to the start of the parade and there was plenty of standing room!

Click here for more info.

7. Get your swimmers on and take a snow bath

That’s right, during one special day during Carnaval, Canada’s boldest and most insane will brave the freezing temperatures to take snow baths in their swimsuits at the annual St-Hubert Snow Bath.

Don’t worry, a mandatory warm-up is included…. and so is an eyeful of many half-naked people, if that sweetens the deal…

8. Attend a snow rave

When attending Carnaval, it only makes sense that you carve out some time to party it up Canadian style.

In previous years, there have been outdoor raves for eager partyers willing to rave the cold, but this year there’s a more eclectic assortment of live musical performances, which you can see here .

9. Drink up at an ice bar

Drinking out of literal cups of ice is one of the quintessentially Carnaval experiences you can’t miss! Plus, it’s an excellent way to stay warm.

During my latest visit, there were two main ice bars on site at the Quebec Winter Carnival, including the Bar le Coureur des bois at le Camp à Jo and the SAQ Ice Bar in the Zone Loto-Québec.

Be sure to give the classic Caribou drink a try (imagine a delicious Canadian mulled wine clone), or perhaps a Bonhomme Cosmo, made up of a vodka shot and red Bonhomme syrup.

10. Enjoy some impossibly Canadian festivities

Axe throwing, tubing, ice slides, tobogganing, basically a laundry list of all the Canadian things you assume we don’t actually do…..

Guys, you can do them at Carnival.

One of the funniest things I saw in the roundup was a winter wrestling match where they literally have grown men in (pretty much) speedos pretend-fighting in the icy frigid winter. It was incredible. Canada, what even are you? 

Final Tips for Your Quebec Carnaval Visit

Lastly, here are my final pro tips to help you make the most of your Quebec Winter Carnival trip!

Remember, these tips were written after a visit in 2020, so they may not be 100% relevant for all of this year’s festivities. I’ll leave my tips below for your reference though.

For the best deal, get the Carnaval Passport

I can’t stress enough what an amazing deal the Carnaval Passport is!

For only $25 more than the regular effigy, you get your hands on an effigy plus a wide range of additional stuff that (if you’re like me) you would’ve bought anyway, including an adorable and warm Carnaval toque, a maple taffy, a ponce du Carnaval (and its accompanying souvenir mug), a hot chocolate or coffee, plus a coupon set including freebies from Couche Tard (free coffee, pastry, hot dog, sod and to-go meal) and discounts for a lot of other places.

If you want excellent value for money, pay the extra for the Carnaval Passport – you won’t regret it.

Display your effigy somewhere clearly visible

Of all the things to carry around during your Quebec Winter Carnival trip, none is more important than your effigy!

This is your entry ticket to every Carnaval attraction so make sure to tie it clearly on a visible zipper so that you a) don’t lose it and b) the security staff can quickly confirm that you’re able to enter.

Schedule a loose game plan

While the festival sites are all close together, there are certain events that only take place at set times, so if there is a particular performance or activity you really want to see, it’s important you plan your day around it!

We for instance really wanted to get photos with Bonhomme and watch the ice wrestling, so we marked these down on a schedule and planned our days around these must-dos.

Trust me, Carnaval can be a bit overwhelming with all the choices so this is the best way to plan your trip and ensure you don’t miss any of your must-dos while maximizing your time.

Pack wet wipes and hand sanitizer

One common theme among the various must-eats at Carnaval are their undeniable stickiness. What do you do with yourself after you’ve smothered your hands in maple syrup and Nutella?

That’s a good question… no amount of napkins will get this stickiness off your fingers so be sure to have some hand sanitizer or wet wipes in your bag to clean up properly.

Get some ~ special beverages ~ to keep yourself warm (even during the day)

Our second day at the Carnaval, we went all in on the ice bar offerings, slamming down a Bonhomme cosmo, a Caribou and a Ponce du Carnaval in quick succession. Do you know who WASN’T cold? This girl!

I know day drinking feels like a weird thing to do at what seems like a truly wholesome family event but wow what a difference it makes. Of course, don’t go overboard, but a bit of Caribou can really warm you up nicely.

Have a bathroom game plan

Okay, now for some very gross but important and practical info that I must pass down to you…… relieving yourself at Carnaval is NOT a pretty endeavour.

Essentially all the public bathrooms on site consist of porta poddies which, as I’m sure you can imagine, isn’t the most pleasant experience.

Mix in the winter wonders of frozen liquids and many of these porta poddies are… well, covered in frozen pee! There. I said it. I’m sorry.

It’s certainly not fun, so be sure to strategize and make time for bathroom spots in the day in restaurants, cafes, and even department stores. Simon’s downtown for example has a public washroom, as does the swanky Chateau Frontenac if you enter at the Starbucks entrance and follow the signs.

Get there early for must-do attractions

There are some activities at the Quebec Winter Carnival that attract more crowds than others. In my experience, this included the tube sliding, Labyrinth experience and the Bonhomme palace ice slide.

Getting there at opening time is key to making sure you wait the minimum amount possible! Alternatively, if possible for you, avoiding weekends is probably best.

For the parade, walk closer down to the front

The weekend parade along Grande Allée is hands down one of the nicest things to do during the Québec Winter Carnival.

If you want to snag a prime spot without waiting a long time in the cold, I would recommend heading closer to the start of the parade route. We got here 20 minutes before 7pm and there were still a lot of spots, even after the parade start time of 7pm.

Any more questions about the Quebec Winter Carnival? 

I hope you enjoyed this guide to Quebec’s Carnaval celebrations! Feel free to ask if you have any questions 🙂

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5 thoughts on “Québec Winter Carnival: The Ultimate Guide!”

Ha ha, that snowman at the end is hilarious! The winter carnival looks like a blast – winter wonderland for sure! I wouldn’t be able to stand the cold myself, though! 😀 – Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

It’s so much fun in spite of the snow. Hope you get to see for yourself someday!!

We are heading up to Quebec tomorrow and were curious about the Carnival. After reading your post we will most definitely be checking it out! Much appreciated!

Hi Christina: I’m a Canadian-American living in Virginia and my husband and I go to Carnaval every year with another couple. We stay at the same hotel every year – It’s where we spent our honeymoon, in fact! We take in many of the Carnaval sights, including the ice canoe races, and spend hours walking the city, popping into shops and cafes as desired. We always try new restaurants, and sometimes take an excursion to nearby attractions. Last year we tried snow tubing at Valcartier resort, and this year we’re doing the Nordic thermospa experience at a spa in Baie-Saint-Paul. Among our little group, we have an excellent French-speaker, and that helps, but being Anglophone is also just fine. Thanks for this great post. We *heart* Canada (and Quebec in particular!) so much!!!

Thank you for all the great info! I am heading there in a couple weeks and your site has been helpful!

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The Quebec City Winter Carnival Guide – How to Enjoy Your Winter Getaway in Canada

Last updated on June 27th, 2023 at 03:01 pm

Last year we got to check off a bunch of our adventure bucket list items thanks to the Quebec Carnival that takes place every winter. You may call us crazy for recommending going on a weekend getaway to Quebec City in freezing temperatures. But, you’ll also thank us for the incredible fun you’ll have if you decide to go here for your next winter vacation.

On a serious note, though, the winters in Canada are not to be taken lightly. It’s very important to come prepared with the right winter gear. Here’s our in-depth post on what to wear in Canada winters .  With that in tow, allow the festivities to raise your spirits up as the temperatures drop for these winter activities in Quebec carnival are too tempting to pass.

This year Quebec Winter Carnival  2020 is scheduled from February 7-16th

TIP: As much fun as this festival is for adults, it is extremely family-friendly as well. Kids will get to enjoy and experience a variety of winter adventures during this time. We’ve posted videos from our trip on our Instagram Page under story highlights if you are interested. Here are our favorite activities from the Quebec Winter Carnival –

1. Experience the Winter Wonderland

We have been to Quebec City in the summer a few times but visiting in the winter felt like our first time here. The city looks like a Winter Wonderland postcard. The old Quebec City will transport you to a European village without even leaving the continent. Although French is the first language in Quebec most people speak English as their second language.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

You might enjoy this 2-Hour Christmas Magic Tour in Old Quebec .

2. Meet Bonhomme and explore his very own Ice Castle and Ice sculptures

Who is Bonhomme?

He is the star of the Quebec winter carnival! The tallest snowman we’ve ever seen who can walk and talk. Since everyone in the town is looking for him, give a big hug when you see him as he might disappear the next second.

He even has an entire Ice Palace and a Royal Court built with elaborate ice sculptures and an indoor animated show which is sure to mesmerize kids and adults alike.

3. Enjoy the Opening Ceremony and the Carnival parade

On the first day of the Quebec Carnival, the city organizes an opening ceremony party with tons of outdoor and indoor events. The opening ceremony area has an ice bar and maple taffy station which you must not miss. There also have drinks & food stations both outdoors as well as indoors with live music.

There are also a bunch of outdoor winter games including axing, video game competitions to keep everyone entertained. TIP: There is a long queue to get inside the ice castle on the evening of the opening ceremony so come early. 

The winter carnival parade takes place the same night after the opening ceremony. Since it is an outdoor event come prepared to stand in the cold for an extended period of time.

4. Participate in the fun winter activities, games, and events

There are so many fun events and activities to choose from during the Quebec winter carnival that you’ll momentarily forget about the cold. You cannot miss the oldest snow toboggan slide in North America on the hill behind the Chateau.

In addition, there are plenty of winter games organized such as Ice Hockey, Petanque, etc to keep you and the kids busy in Old Quebec City.  Tip: Make sure you have a cup of delicious hot chocolate at Cafe Au 1884 behind teh Chateau after the toboggan slide.

5. Go Dog Sledding

This activity has been on my bucket list forever and to be honest, I thought I might have to go to Scandinavia to scratch this one off. But as I’ve said before, the winter wonderland is right in our backyard.

About the ethical nature of this adventure ride, most dog-sled companies in Canada take very good care of their dogs. Moreover, Huskies are a species that love running in the cold outdoors. In fact, the dogs on our slides wouldn’t stop howling since we were stationary for a long time.

6. Try Ice Fishing

The marina in Quebec City gets frozen enough for them to set up a Nordic village over it. Expect igloos and holes drilled all around so you can catch your own fish for lunch. TIP: You need to be extremely patient to actually be lucky to catch a fish here. Unfortunately, we weren’t that patient so we headed to lunch shortly after exploring the Nordic village.

7. Take a ferry ride on the icy St. Lawrence River 

It’s incredible to watch the ferries cross St. Lawrence River cutting through sheets of ice. These are local ferries which provide public transport to people in Quebec City. It’s definitely worth going on a ride to experience a unique view from the icy river.

8. See the Ice Canoe Race

We were amazed to even find out that there are boats running over icy St. Lawrence River let alone think of a canoe race. But the locals are tougher than our imagination. Every year during the Carnival a canoe race is held on the first Sunday of the festival. In order to get past the ice sheets, the participants not only have to paddle but they have to sometimes use their legs in the icy cold water to push the ice away.

9. Eat, Drink & Party 

Try the local traditional frozen maple candies called Maple Taffy while you are here. Warm up with the seasonal cocktail called “ Ponce Du Carnaval ” which is made of Chic Choc spiced rum , Bonhomme’s syrup , and hot water. Don’t return without trying “Ski Shots” of local liqour called Caribou.

And of course, grab some good Poutine (Canadian french fries with Cheese curds and Gravy). Not to mention there are plenty of good restaurants to choose from in Old Quebec City.

10. Stay in unique Quebec City hotels

Nothing can beat the palatial 125-year-old Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac  in Quebec City where we were hosted. The best part is that Fairmont Chateau runs guided tours of their hotel property which we highly recommend signing up for. I loved seeing the rooms that were themed after world famous artists followed by visiting the conference room where WWII peace strategies were once discussed. And then learning the emotional story behind the famous golden letterbox in the hotel which is now eternalized by Korean drama series ‘Goblin’. You have to take the tour to know what I mean!

If you are adventurous then consider staying in North America’s only Ice Hotel –   Hotel de Glace in Quebec City .   It is completely made of snow & ice and opens every winter in January. Hilton Quebec   would be another good alternative within walking distance to the Ice Palace and other Old Quebec City attractions.

Find even more fun things to do in Quebec City !

How to get tickets for Quebec Winter Carnival 

You’ll need to purchase an effigy tag in order to access all the events we’ve mentioned above in the Quebec carnival. Find out more on how to buy carnival tickets on the official Carnaval de Quebec website .

Note: We were hosted by Carnaval de Quebec for the weekend but all opinions in this blog post are our own.

For those residing in the US or Canada, you have no reason to miss this winter carnival. And no, winter is not a reason anymore!

Don’t forget to share this post with family and friends.

More on winter travel:

• How to Dress For Winter in Canada – The Essential Winter Packing List!
• Best Winter Activities to Do in Washington DC This Christmas Holidays
• Christmas in Ottawa – Things To Do in Winter Holidays
• Visiting Isle of Capri in Winter – A Fun Day Trip From Naples or Sorrento

Happy Traveling!

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12 comments on “ the quebec city winter carnival guide – how to enjoy your winter getaway in canada ”.

I love Quebec City! I haven’t visited during the winter in so long though, this gives me such FOMO 😛 Last time I was there was in the summertime, still beautiful but there’s no ice slide then!

One of my favorite cities indeed! 🙂

Wow! I would love to go here for the winter festival one day! The toboggan races look awesome too!

Yup, the Canadians seriously know how to have fun in the middle of winter 😀

This truly looks like some winter wonderland. I would love to try the dog sledding. It sounds like a lot of fun. But so does the Carnival parade. I have never been to Canada (besides Niagara Falls), but this post really makes me want to go next winter. Especially to try the Poutine. It looks so yummy!

Yup, do it next winter you are going to love it!

Oh beautiful pictures! I was in Quebec last summer and thought about how beautiful it must be in winter. And the toboggan looks so much fun!

So different for real, both seasons have their own charm 🙂

I love the Caranvale de Quebec! You have highlighted the best parts of it here, especially the toboggan ride and maple taffy. I haven’t been in years, and would love to check out the igloos and try ice fishing next time I visit.

The festival really made me love winters for a change 😀

Wow this looks like an awesome experience ..would live to have this experience. Thanks for sharing

This definitely is one of those once in a lifetime winter festivals!

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The Quebec Winter Carnival

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The Quebec Winter Carnival - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• (0.12 mi) Le Manoir d'Auteuil
• (0.09 mi) Manoir de L'Esplanade
• (0.09 mi) Auberge La Chouette
• (0.16 mi) Castel d'Amerique Francaise
• (0.16 mi) Hotel Le Clos Saint-Louis
• (0.09 mi) Apsara
• (0.10 mi) Le Parlementaire
• (0.13 mi) Restaurant Le Saint-Amour
• (0.15 mi) Bello Ristorante
• (0.17 mi) Sagamite

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13 Incredible Things To Do In Quebec City In The Winter

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• Activities and Interests
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• Quebec City
• Seasonal Travel
• Winter Travel

Quebec City has quite the backdrop during the winter months. A gorgeous snowcapped castle overlooking the icy Saint Lawrence River and snow-dusted cobblestone streets make this charming French Canadian city look like something out of a fairy tale. But it isn’t just looks; Quebec City has some of the yummiest food and most fun shopping in all of Canada. Plus, there are dozens of things to see and do.

If you enjoy wintery weather, Quebec City is the perfect place to visit. If you’re not a cold-weather fan, you will still love it. Winters in Quebec City are cold, but you will be so enchanted that you won’t even notice the cold weather as long as you dress appropriately.

Here are our top suggestions for the mature traveler visiting Quebec City during the winter.

1. Explore Old Quebec City

Old Quebec City is one of the most picturesque locations in all of North America. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it looks more like a city you might find in Europe than in North America. The streets are well lit, and if you are there during the holidays or carnival when extra decorations are everywhere, you will be spellbound by this charming city.

The best way to explore is on foot, so you can hop in and out of the local stores. You might also consider a horse-drawn carriage to explore the town or a hop-on, hop-off bus tour with stops at all the important sites.

2. Take A Walking Tour

The best way to explore the heart of Quebec City is on foot. Consider taking a walking tour. Sign up for a tour of the city with a guide or do a self-guided walking route. I’ve done both and enjoyed the self-guided one the most because I wanted to stop, peruse things, and take pictures.

Be sure to spend some time in what is considered the oldest commercial street in North America. Petit-Champlain is picturesque with its narrow, winding cobblestone streets. This is where you will find local shops, restaurants, and cafes. Located on the lower level of the town, if you don’t want to walk the icy or snowy streets to the other areas, you can always take the funicular to the top. It is a quick ride.

You will also want to visit Place Royale , where historic buildings such as the towering Notre Dame Des Victories cathedral frame this gorgeous little plaza.

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

3. Ride The Funiculaire

The Funiculaire transports you from the picturesque Lower Town up to the steep terrace upon which Chateau Frontenac perches overlooking the entire city. It is a quick 3-minute ride and provides a great view.

The funicular was put into service in 1879 and still continues to transport visitors up and down the terrace.

Fascinated by funiculars? See our picks for the 11 best funiculars in the world .

Albert Pego / Shutterstock

4. Walk The Dufferin Terrace

Stroll along Dufferin Terrace for a spectacular view of the Saint Lawrence River and Chateau Frontenac, as well as a toboggan run in the winter. The terrace is like a very wide boardwalk at the beach. I highly recommend taking the time to visit the remains of the Saint-Louis Forts and Chateaux , which lie beneath this iconic promenade. Note that there are steps down, and the pathway beneath the terrace is not always flat.

Quebec City Tourism

5. Take In The View

Historic buildings surrounding the towering Chateau Frontenac give Quebec City a stunning skyline. Along with its charming European vibe, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Quebec City, the Saint Lawrence River with floating ice, and more from the terrace behind the Chateau Frontenac and the Governor’s Promenade during the winter.

6. Visit The Le Chateau Frontenac

Perched high on a hill overlooking the Saint Lawrence River is a giant Fairmont hotel, The Chateau Frontenac .It is the most iconic building in the cityand is considered the most photographed hotel in the world.

When I first visited, I viewed it from the outside and promised myself I would stay there in the future. My promise came to fruition the following year, and I can attest it felt like being in an actual castle!

I highly recommend touring the hotel even if you can’t stay there. During the holiday season, Chateau Frontenac is decorated beautifully.

7. Enjoy Some Outdoor Fun

If you are into outdoor sports, Quebec City is the place to be. Be aware all these activities require you to be in good physical shape, and there is a danger of falling on the ice.

One of the unique and exhilarating attractions right outside the Chateau Frontenac is the toboggan slide, Glissade de la Terrasse .

One of the oldest attractions in the city, this one-of-a-kind slide has been located on Dufferin Terrace since 1884.

You are provided with an old wooden sled to tug up the ramp, and then groups of up to four can pile on the toboggan. When the operator releases the latch, the sled hurls down an icy track. Those who ride it claim they feel like a kid again!

A few other sports to easily enjoy include ice skating, skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snow rafting.

The Patinoire de la Place d’Youville is one of the most scenic ice skating rinks in Quebec City. Located on Rue Saint-Jean, the open-air rink is open from mid-October to mid-March.

Skating at night with Old Town as a backdrop is a delightful experience.

Valcartier Vacation Village is located just 20 minutes north of Quebec City and offers over 35 snow-covered slopes, illuminated skating paths, and more.

Mont-Saint-Anne offers skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.

8. Walk Through Festi Lumiere

Enjoy the winter light fantasyland complete with magnificent evergreens, light projection, and more set to holiday music all winter long. The aquarium gardens are popping with color as 500,000 colorful LED lights turn the pathways into an enchanted forest. The annual light festival held at the Aquarium du Quebec runs till the end of February.

9. Visit An Ice Hotel

You don’t have to stay there if the thought of sleeping in a room surrounded by ice makes you shiver. But make time to tour the Hotel de Glace . A mere 10 minutes outside the city, it is one of only a handful of ice hotels in the world and the only one in North America. Hotel de Glace is completely rebuilt each year with a different theme. The massive ice structure boasts 44 rooms with snow-carved walls, rock-solid ice beds with thermal sleeping bags, and artistic lighting. Imagine an ice suite featuring private spas and romantic fireplaces.

It is a different kind of luxury, and the best way to experience it is an overnight stay. But freezing while you sleep isn’t something most mature travelers look forward to.

The day tour will suffice, and it includes walking through each room, the chapel, and the ice slide (brave souls can give it a slide!). You have the opportunity to take in the ice and snow architecture without sleeping there. I suggest taking the tour and following it with lunch at the hotel’s restaurant or visiting the Ice Workshop to learn how to make an ice glass. Hotel de Glace is right next to Valcartier Vacation Village and is usually open from January 2 to mid-March.

A visit to Hotel de Glace is undoubtedly one of those bucket-list items for the more adventurous traveler.

10. Celebrate The Quebec City Winter Carnival

A winter trip is not complete without attending the Quebec City Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Quebec) . Think massive snow sculptures, street parties, family-friendly rides and activities, and the world’s most famous seven-foot snowman, Bonhomme.

One of the world’s most famous winter festivals, the Winter Carnival hosts ice canoeing events and a nighttime parade. Quebec City has welcomed visitors to join the party that runs from the end of January to mid-February.

Robin O’Neal Smith

11. Taste Sweet Maple Taffy

You can’t miss tasting this sugary-sweet maple taffy that is the quintessential Quebec treat. While eating it is delicious, making your syrup lollipop is a fun experience. Maple syrup drizzled over a fresh blanket of snow begins to harden after about 30 seconds. Then you dip the edge of a popsicle stick onto the taffy and roll it up. This treat is sure to satisfy the sweet tooth, and you might even want to create a second one. (Ask me how I know!)

Maple taffy stations are all around town. You will find them during the Winter Carnival, and Maple Sugar Shacks pop up everywhere in March and April when the maple sap begins to flow from the trees.

12. Relax At A Scandinavian Spa

Just 20 minutes from downtown Quebec City, Siberia Spa welcomes visitors year-round to relax in its outdoor Scandinavian-inspired spa. Based on the thermotherapy concept, guests luxuriate in sweltering hot saunas and eucalyptus-infused steam rooms before plunging into frigid cold pools. This practice is said to eliminate toxins, increase circulation, and strengthen the immune system.

They have many other luxury spa treatments and lounges. It is an excellent way to spend a day or even an evening after being out in the cold weather exploring the city.

There are several spas in the town, too.

13. Enjoy the Food

Home of delicious French Canadian food, Quebec City is a foodie’s dream come true. You can find maple everything in Quebec City, plus lots of other food such as poutine and tourtiere .

Poutine is a dish of crispy french fries topped with “squeaky” cheese curds and gravy. Tourtiere is a meat pie. It includes pie crust with minced meat and spices.

If you enjoy food, I suggest taking a food tour. I took one when I visited two years ago, and it was delightfully delicious.

We sampled food, maple candy, chocolates, and some drinks. Food tours are an excellent way to sample various foods, plus enjoy a guided walking tour and learn about local culture and history! My favorite maple food treat on our food tour was the maple smoked salmon!

I could go on forever about specific places to visit. There are museums, historical sites, day trips to Montmorency Falls, Ile d’Orleans, and Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre. There is so much to see and do in Quebec City during every season. I’m positive you will be planning the next trip before you leave. Enjoy your time in this charming French Canadian City.

During the winter months, the temperature is usually in the 20s during the day and drops into the teens or below at night. So pack appropriately and wear lots of layers so you can shed them if you warm up.

Sweaters, wool socks, scarves, gloves, a hat, lined leggings, warm boots, and a winter coat are a must.

While Quebec City is French Canadian, most people speak English as well.

A few shopkeepers only speak French. Be aware that French is the dominant language in Quebec City. So learn a few basic French words before your visit.

If you stay in the heart of Old Town, you will be able to walk to most places, but if you need transportation, taxis are less expensive in Quebec City than Ubers. You will find taxis around the city. Just hail them down when one is needed. Or take a tour bus. Old Quebec Tours offers various routes with hop-on, hop-off capabilities. We used this the last time we visited.

Quebec City uses Canadian Currency. You can use your international credit card if you have one. See all our Quebec City content here .

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

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Home | Travel guides | Winter | Plan a trip to the Quebec City Winter Carnival and discover more fun things to do in Quebec City in winter

• Quebec City Winter Carnival
• Bonhomme’S Ice Palace
• Carnival Events
• Things To Do In Quebec City
• Place Royale
• Market At Old Port
• Winter Sports

Plan a trip to the Quebec City Winter Carnival and discover more fun things to do in Quebec City in winter

Located on the Saint Lawrence River in  Quebec ,  Quebec City  is the colonial core of the province and one of its most fascinating cities. Home to a variety of spectacular buildings and landmarks, food markets, and charming historic town areas, Quebec City becomes even more beautiful during the holiday season with the holiday lights and Christmas-themed attractions. The highlight of the season is the Quebec City Winter Carnival, but you could find many exciting experiences for the family in Quebec City during the holidays. Find out the top things to do in Quebec City in winter and plan your trip with your friends or family.

About  Quebec City Winter Carnival

The Quebec Winter Carnival is an annual pre-Lenten festival that takes place in Quebec City. The event has been celebrated for decades, each year bringing new and interesting attractions and activities for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Find out what you can expect from a trip to the Quebec Winter Carnival.

Bonhomme’s Ice Palace

The Ice Palace is the focal point of the festival and a lively representation of the fun and excitement of the holiday season. Each year, a grand and intricate Ice Palace is constructed for Bonhomme, the castle lord and ambassador of the festival. Bonhomme makes appearances throughout the carnival, often dressed as a snowman.

Carnival events  for couples and families

Among the biggest draws of the carnival are the parties, shows, balls, and activities that take place throughout the day and night. Some of the major events that occur at each carnival include the sculpture contests on the Plains of Abraham, which showcase the works of local and international students, and outdoor sporting events like snowshoe competitions, ice canoe racing, and dog sledding. Several dance parties take place throughout the Ice Palaces, and the event’s big finish is a grand ball at the Château Frontenac.

Other fun  things to do in Quebec City  in winter with family or friends

Along with the carnival, the winter events in Quebec City immerse you in the enchantment of the holiday season. You’ll find plenty more to do in Quebec City in winter, such as touring the historic square, sampling Christmas treats, and getting into the outdoors. Take a look at the other fun events and activities to make the most of a winter vacation in Quebec City.

Place Royale  for historic tours

Place Royale  is a charming town square that’s home to the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and the massive Fresque des Québécois, a mural that illustrates the city’s rich history. You can experience it all on a historic walking tour, which is even more impressive with a dusting of snow on the spectacular architecture and holiday lights illuminating the square. During the holiday season, Place Royal has a towering Christmas tree in the centre.

Market at Old Port  for holiday shopping

In winter, the Market at Old Port adds a holiday flair to its normal rotation of local artisan souvenirs, seasonal foods, and baked goods. In December, the market hosts a lively Christmas market with European and Canadian holiday treats and knick-knacks. You can shop for gifts for your friends and family, sample the local goods, and maybe pick up some treats for yourself. You’ll also find small Christmas markets throughout the city, especially in Old Town, which is decorated with Christmas lights and displays.

Winter sports  for the whole family

Quebec City is close to Mont-Sainte-Anne , a spectacular ski resort in the Laurentian Mountains. Known for its versatile terrain and activities, Mont-Saint-Anne offers beginner and advanced skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, and other activities, as well as a snow school if it’s your first time on the slopes. The resort also has a delightful sugar shack on the mountain for maple treats.

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• A Winter Wonderland

Editor's Picks

Top Things to Do in Québec City This Winter

The ultimate guide to what's going on in Québec City from December to March.

Winter Events You Won’t Want to Miss

To help you make the most of the season, we’ve put together a list of events to add to your calendar.

Activities to Do in Winter

The Best Snow Tubing and Snow Sliding

Sliding is one of the most popular winter activities. Discover where to do snow tubing or snow sliding in Québec City.

Top Places for Snowshoeing

Looking for snowshoeing trails that lead to beautiful snowy scenery? We’ve got the inside scoop on the best spots to go snowshoeing.

The Best Ice Skating Rinks and Trails

Ice skating in the Québec City Area holds a special appeal. Visit the skating rinks the city has to offer and take full advantage of winter.

Skiing & Snowboarding

The ultimate guide to skking and snowboarding in Québec City. Discover the ski resorts, where to enjoy best après-ski, and more!

Best Cross-Country Skiing in Québec City

Québec City has an exceptionally long season and fabulous ski conditions. Get our tips on the best places to go cross-country skiing.

The Best Fat Bike Trails

With its perfectly well groomed trails, the Québec City area is a top destination for winter fat biking. Here are the places to pedal on the snow.

Best Spots for Ski Touring

Far from the crowds, ski touring fans are hooked on the satisfying sense of freedom this sport brings! Here are some helpful tips on how to enjoy it.

Ice Fishing

Find the best spots to fish in snowy surroundings

• Family Activities
• Living History
• Outdoors Nearby
• Vibrant Culture

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4 Reasons to Visit the Hôtel de Glace in Québec City

A Winter Blast Where North America's Fate Was Sealed

Village Vacances Valcartier: The Most Fun You’ll Have This Winter

Family Activities for Christmas

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5 Ways to Feel Like You’re in a Christmas Movie

The best place for awesome winter fun, activities to explore.

Aboriginal Tourism

Amusement Parks

Aquarium, Wildlife Parks and Farms

Backcountry skiing

Sugar Shacks

Canoeing, Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Climbing and canyoning

Language Courses

Cross-Country Skiing

Dogsledding

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

Multimedia Experiences

Gardens and Nature Walk

Guided Walking Tours and Theme Tours

Historical Sites

Places to Shop

Microbreweries

Snowmobiling

Museums and Interpretation Centres

Nordic Spas

Parks and Recreation Facilities

Snowshoeing

Religious Sites

Spas and Health Centres

Specialities and Delicatessens

Watch timothy goodman enjoying winter.

More Videos of Québec City

Uncover the fascinating bygone eras of Old Québec, a living history book of how French, English and First Nations ancestry shaped north America.

Tons of tips

Our editorial team recommends its official magazine to help you discover the destination.

The Best of Québec City

Shannon Shipman

Bringing Joy to Your Home Through Art

The Ultimate Winter Travel Guide to Québec City

If you are looking for a winter wonderland get away then Québec City, Canada is exactly where you need to be.

Shrouded in history it is one of the North America’s oldest settlements (1608). And to this day it still holds a European charm throughout its architecture and cuisine.  A true French Canadian town, it is inevitably alluring in every way possible.

Where to Stay ~ Le Chateau Frontenac

This enchanting hotel was built in 1893 by the Canadian Pacific Railway.  It’s soaring turrets and large castle like features dominate Québec City’s skyline, making it a striking sight to see.  Arguably the most photographed hotel in the world, the Chateau offers just as much beauty on the inside as it exudes on the out.  Having undergone a multi-million dollar  renovation, it pays tribute to its charismatic past, all the while providing modern comforts to suit any guest.  The views of the St. Lawrence River are incredible, along with the busy sights of Old Québec.

Cocktails ~

This is a rotating restaurant where you can have a 360 degree view of Québec City in all its glory.  Definitely make sure you schedule your time here as sun is setting, basking a glow over beautiful Old Québc

1608 – Wine and Cheese Bar ~

Located right inside Le Chateau Frontenac we stopped by for cocktails and appetizers 3 out of the 4 nights we stayed.  A white marble bar with pink leather seats set the tone for this fun cocktail extravaganza.  Besides they have great cheese boards, and who doesn’t want that????

Le Continental ~

Conveniently located right next to Le Chateau Frontenac, this cozy restaurant doesn’t look like much from the outside, but once you step foot inside you are in for a treat.  Known for their filets, these chefs do steak right.  Cooked in front of you, with flames reaching towards the ceiling, they create the most satisfying filet mignon I have ever had.  A perfectly cooked (to your liking) 8 oz filet, that they top with any sauce or seasoning you would like.  We had to refrain from going two nights in a row.

Bistro Le Sam ~

Also right inside of Le Chateau Frontenac,  this quaint bistro is open for lunch and dinner.  It has a seasonal menu and we tried the bison tartar –  delicious! And my salmon dish was so tasty and fresh, Matt opted for the lamb, which I swear he inhaled.  Obviously Bistro Le Sam was a winner.  They have a pretty lively crowd along with a musician playing live music.

Saint Amour ~

Paul McCartney’s favorite restaurant in Québec City.  Need I say more?  Chef Jean-Luc Boulay is culinary mastermind.  We tried the recommend duck foie gras, which was so tender, and dressed with a sweet fruit puree.  I opted for the lobster ravioli, which was nothing like ravioli, yet heaven on a plate.  Yes, I said heaven, because it is the only word I can describe for this experience.

I can’t remember the last time I ate a meal so incredibly slow because I dreaded the ending.  “Hmmmm” was all I could say after each and every morsel.  I enjoyed this meal with one of the finest white burgundies I have had the pleasure of trying.  It was a delightful and intricate dance consisting of a bite of the savory meal, followed by a sip of the beautifully texturized burgundy which was layered with intoxicating flavors.  So when I describe this meal as “heaven”, that is precisely what I mean.  I aim to go back to this restaurant again, some things are to good not to enjoy twice.

Things to do ~

Winter Carnival ~ The world’s largest winter carnival is located right in the middle of Quebec City every year! Every park is full of different sites and things to do.  There are little warming huts to grab food, along with a tasty beverage, whether it be a cocktail, or a soothing hot chocolate.  All around you are kids screaming with delight and adults full of laughter.  There are ice sculptures, song and dances, a petting zoo, a playground for the kids, ice formations to travel through, games on games, and hills to slide down.    Right outside of Le Chateau Frontenac is a  fabulously fast tobaggon run.

My favorite treat was the maple syrup snow candy!  All through out the carnival were stations to get get one and it was so fun to watch.  They pour maple syrup onto a ledge of snow, then put a popsicle stick at one end.  Once the maple syrup has “froze” enough in the snow, you roll it up with the the stick and have a cold sweet snack!

Dog Sledding ~ This has been a bucket list item for me for many years.  Not only because I love dogs, but because I know these dogs love to run through the snow.  Its like a job for them.  I didn’t realize how much they enjoyed it until we got the full experience.  These dogs were whining to get going from the moment we showed up, and whenever we stopped for a moment they just wanted to keep running.  I don’t know which part was better – the sledding, or cuddling with all the puppies at the end of our tour.

Village Vacances Valcartier ~

Located 20 minutes outside of the city is a full on winter playground.  There are tubing slides, more than we could keep count of, and an ice hotel located within the park.  The hills to tube down were not small by any means, most were actually extremely steep.  Matt had the time of his life, while I spent a majority of time paralyzed with fear.   I still managed to go down the runs he wanted to, even if I screamed every time.

The Ice Hotel ~

The ice hotel was just recently moved to the inside of the Valcartier park.  It takes 50 days to build and it goes up depending on weather.  I received a lot of questions, and comments, while we were there and I was snapchatting and using insta-stories.  To be honest, I wasn’t that impressed with it.  I actually asked Matt if we could stay a night there while I was planning the trip, but he said no.  After seeing it I was so happy he did.  There are no doors, only curtains to the rooms.  Obviously it would be hard to put doors into ice.  Although the bar area looked like a good time, the fact that it was inside an amusement park was still a little odd for me.  But, it’s definitely worth a look around to see how its done!

Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré ~

A stunning example of architecture, this church sits about 19 miles east of Québec City.  Known as the “Church of Miracles” because it has been credited by the Catholic Church with many miracles of curing the sick and disabled.  Almost 500,000 pilgrims make it to the church each year around July 26th, the feast of Saint Anne.  You are allowed in the sanctuary, however no photos are allowed. Ornate details throughout every square inch, stained glass windows illuminated with natural light, and soaring arches fill the magnificent space.  It is true architectural brilliance.

Québec City is definitely one of my favorite Canadian Cities thus far.  The people are happy, the food was amazing, and the city is beyond gorgeous.

If you want to see more posts on my Canada series sign up for my newsletter.  It only goes out once a week, because nobody’s got time for emails every day – am I right?  Sign up here !

 Have you been to Canada? If so what’s your favorite Canadian town?

XO, Shannon

Check out these blog posts

February 15, 2017 at 9:26 am

This looks absolutely beautiful and the food and cocktails sound amazing! Thanks for sharing this fabulous guide!

Cheers, J http://www.cheersj.com

February 15, 2017 at 9:55 am

I have always wanted to go here! Heard the food scene was killer!

February 15, 2017 at 11:04 am

Oh my these photos are beautiful! I never thought about visiting quebec but i think now i will plan to go! Thank you for sharing!

February 15, 2017 at 12:59 pm

That trip looks amazing! I’ve always wanted to visit. It’s definitely at the top of my list. Thank you for sharing all the details! Kat | http://www.DeliriumStyle.com

February 15, 2017 at 3:15 pm

Your pictures are always so beautiful 🙂

Caitlin, Beauty & Colour

February 15, 2017 at 11:32 pm

This makes me want to visit Quebec even more! My Husband has even wanting to take me for years we’ve just never found the time!

Ellie http://Www.scotchandstilettos.com

February 16, 2017 at 1:15 pm

Quebec certainly looks magical covered in snow! I’ve always wanted to visit Canada to see the Rocky Mountains but Quebec seems too beautiful a place to miss out on so I guess I have to visit the west and east 😉

February 16, 2017 at 1:20 pm

This is all so pretty! I’ll have to go visit.

February 16, 2017 at 6:31 pm

Got to your blog post from the up to date interior Link party! Nice post! Glad you enjoyed my hometown :-)))

February 19, 2017 at 1:14 pm

I love Quebec City but I’ve never been there during Carnival. I really enjoyed reading this wonderful travel guide. Thank you for sharing it with us at Hearth and Soul. Pinned and shared on our Hearth and Soul Facebook page.

February 21, 2017 at 3:24 pm

Quebec has always intrigued me. After reading your post I really want to visit! Cuddling doggies, hanging out in castles (and with our furry friends) looks to be divine =) All your photos are lovely. Pinning! (P.s. Found you via April’s party. P.s. 2. Hope you enjoyed your trip to Japan.)

February 22, 2017 at 3:54 am

Would loooove to visit Quebec any time of year, but I think I’m more drawn to visiting in winter! I’ve heard there’s an ice festival so that’d be awesome to do! Pinned! #CityTripping

February 23, 2017 at 3:15 pm

Quebec is somewhere I’d love to visit – I’ve only been to Toronto so far, but that, Montreal and Vancouver are all on the bucket list. It would be amazing to visit in winter as well, see the ice hotel and carnival. And having done husky sledding in Lapland, which was just such an amazing experience, I would definitely be doing that again if I can! Thanks for linking up with#citytripping

February 25, 2017 at 3:48 pm

Id love to go to Quebec too, the French-Canadian combination intrigues me. Dig sledding would be high on my list and the basilica looks incredible too #citytripping

March 9, 2017 at 3:37 am

What a beautiful picture! Thank you for your sharing!

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MassLive.com

Say ‘bonjour’ to Québec Winter Wonderland pop-up coming to Boston Friday

Posted: November 2, 2023 | Last updated: November 2, 2023

People visiting Boston can experience the elements of Québec’s winter carnivals firsthand when they stop by a free pop-up in Seaport Friday.

Bonjour Québec , which will be in Boston Nov. 3, is taking over Seaport by bringing the best of the destination’s iconic winter experiences.

• Read More: Holiday cups back at Starbucks; here’s how to get free reusable 2023 cup

Guests to Québec Winter Wonderland can get an up-close look at ice sculpting, play snowball corn hole and indulge in Québec’s iconic “maple candy on snow” all while listening to a DJ spin tunes in front of an ice bar.

There will also be an appearance by Québec’s beloved Bonhomme , the carnival’s official mascot that looks like a 7-foot snowman wearing a culturally significant sash and a red stocking-like cap. Other highlights include ice skating, igloos and many other classic carnival activities all inspired by the Canadian city’s festivities.

• Read More: Fleurs de Villes marks 90th show by bringing flowers to Boston for first time

The pop-up is located at One Seaport and will last from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. More information about the pop-up can be found here .

©2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit masslive.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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5 things to do this weekend, including Québec Winter Wonderland and a hip-hop block party

• Jacob Garcia

Let’s all share a brief moment of silence for October… Hello, November! The foliage is disappearing, the air is getting chillier and the sun just keeps setting earlier as we inch our way closer to winter. But Québec’s office of tourism is on a mission to get us to a new season as early as this Friday when they transform Seaport into a winter wonderland. November is also National Hip-Hop History Month so you know we’ve got you covered there. But our list is eclectic enough to also include a play, a fashion show and a film festival. So just keep on reading.

Fashionably Late Thursdays: HOUSE OF JAX

Thursday, nov. 2.

Who says Boston’s not fashionable? (Answer: GQ in 2011 .) Every Thursday, the Liberty Hotel’s lobby transforms into an interactive fashion show to highlight the work of Boston designers. This time, the spotlight is on HOUSE OF JAX . The company, founded by Jaqueline Guelli, began as a skincare brand in 2017 but has grown to produce home decor and, of course, fashion. DJ Skoolyahd will kick off the free event at 9 p.m. with some record spinning. Then, models will strut for three rounds through the lobby-turned-fashion runway at 10 p.m. for a total of four looks.

Québec Winter Wonderland

Friday, nov. 3.

Québec’s tourism department is taking over the Seaport this Friday. They’ll be bringing us a truncated version of their 70-year-strong Winter Carnival, which brings in nearly 400,000 people annually. Our Boston version of the festival may be smaller, but we’ll still get to experience a few of their traditions first-hand, like ice sculpting, DJ performances in front of an ice bar, snowball corn hole, and an appearance by Québec’s iconic snowman mascot, Bonhomme. The free festival is open to people of all ages. It kicks off at 11 a.m. and goes until 9 p.m.

Hip Hop Won't Stop!

Saturday, nov. 4.

November is National Hip-Hop History Month. The sub-culture began 50 years ago and goes beyond rap to include DJing, break dance and graffiti. Boston Public Library will host a block party this Saturday at Codman Square to celebrate the occasion. The free all-ages event will feature portable DJ duo A Trike Called Funk spinning records that compel people to move, maybe show off a headspin if it’s in your wheelhouse, and a graffiti workshop. The festival begins at 2 p.m. and goes until 4 p.m.

Boston Jewish Film Festival

Through nov. 15.

The annual Boston Jewish Film Festival kicked off on Wednesday, Nov. 1. The event, which celebrates the Jewish experience, was founded in 1989 by filmmaker Michal Goldman. It holds the claim of “largest film-based organization in New England,” with over 15,000 annual members. Some of the notable documentaries screening this year include " Remembering Gene Wilder ," " Rabbi on the Block " and " Resistance – They Fought Back ." You can purchase a pass to the entire festival for $360 or individual passes to either stream or watch movies in person throughout Greater Boston for $16.

' The Book of Will '

Through nov. 12.

Newsflash: Shakespeare is dead! The playwright's work has influenced countless shows, musicals and pieces of media throughout time. But in Lauren Gunderson’s “The Book of Will,” we see what happens when London stages are cluttered with poorly ripped off and plagiarized versions of “Hamlet” and “Macbeth” just three years after William Shakespeare’s death. And, how his artist friends try their best to preserve his legacy. Elliot Norton award-winning director Bryn Boice leads this pay-what-you-Will show by Hub Theatre Company at the BCA Plaza Theatre. Donations of new and gently read children’s books will also be collected at each show for local charities.

Jacob Garcia Newsroom Fellow Jacob Garcia is a newsroom fellow at WBUR.

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