Quebec Winter Carnival - Overview:
Every year, beginning on the last weekend of January and continuing for the the next two weeks (17 days in total), Quebec City is alive with sub-zero merri-making. The world's largest winter carnival, the Québec Winter Carnival, has been a highlight on the Quebec event calendar since 1894 and been giving Quebeckers and thousands of visitors a reason to celebrate during the cold, snowy winters.
Tips for Visiting the Quebec Winter Carnival
Pictures of the Quebec Winter Carnival
How to Pack & Dress for Winter Carnival
History:
The Quebec Winter Carnival began when the habitants of New France, now Quebec, had a rowdy tradition of getting together just before Lent to eat, drink and be merry.
Today, the Quebec Winter Carnival is the biggest winter carnival in the world and is celebrated annually at the end of January until mid-February. Think Mardi Gras in winter and you have an idea of how big a deal the Quebec Winter Carnival is. No sense in fighting the cold -- embrace and celebrate it.
Today, the Quebec Winter Carnival is the biggest winter carnival in the world and is celebrated annually at the end of January until mid-February. Think Mardi Gras in winter and you have an idea of how big a deal the Quebec Winter Carnival is. No sense in fighting the cold -- embrace and celebrate it.
Location:
The Quebec Winter Carnival takes place at various locations in Old Quebec.
See a map of the Quebec Winter Carnival.
Most every Carnival event is outdoors, so be sure to pack and dress appropriately. You can always take layers off, but if you or your kids are not warm enough, it can ruin the day.
See a map of the Quebec Winter Carnival.
Most every Carnival event is outdoors, so be sure to pack and dress appropriately. You can always take layers off, but if you or your kids are not warm enough, it can ruin the day.
When:
The 2009 Quebec Winter Carnival takes place January 30 to February 15.
Future Carnivals:
2010: January 29th to February 14th
2011: TBA
Future Carnivals:
2010: January 29th to February 14th
2011: TBA
Cost:
Kiosks and other outlets in the city sell the Bonnehomme effigy tag for $10 that gets you into most of the Winter Carnival events. Have cash on hand if you plan to buy from one of the street kiosks.
Some activities cost extra, but families can still have a full, fun day with just the purchase of the Carnival Bonnehomme effigy.
Some activities cost extra, but families can still have a full, fun day with just the purchase of the Carnival Bonnehomme effigy.
HIGHLIGHTS:
The zip line, night parades, slide runs, concerts, snow sculptures, sleigh or dogsled rides, Ice Palace and skating are among the many activities offered during this year's Carnival.
Where to Stay:
Useful Websites:
