Looking for some of Quebec’s Christmas traditions? We’ve found 7 things to do at Christmas and New Year’s in Quebec.
7 things to do at Christmas and New Year’s in Quebec. Christmas and New Year’s Eve bring out a lot of feelings: nostalgia for childhood, love among family and hope for a fresh start.
Each country has its own traditions. In South America, this period coincides with summer – and a lot of heat! In North America, on the other hand, the climate is quite different: the cold temperatures give a warmer, brighter tone to the snow-covered streets.
That delicious atmosphere we’re used to seeing in Christmas movies! Many people visit Quebec in search of this experience and come across illuminated festivals, typical foods and activities to suit all tastes (and budgets).
If you’re looking for information on what to do during the holidays in Quebec, we’ve put together some tips to help. We hope you enjoy it!
7 things to do at Christmas and New Year in Quebec
Christmas and New Year celebrations in Quebec are so magical that you’ll feel like a child again. The lights, the decorations and the snow… Old Québec is transformed into a charming Christmas village that looks like it’s straight out of a Charles Dickens Christmas story!
New Year’s Eve in Quebec is called La Saint-Sylvestre. To celebrate, on December 31, Quebecers go to a party or restaurant with friends, or organize their own get-togethers at home. This is also a time for family gatherings and special traditions.
Some common Christmas and New Year traditions in Quebec include sharing a feast, watching the fireworks show on the eve and making resolutions for the year ahead.
Check out how to enjoy all this magic and enchantment:
German Christmas Market (German Christmas Market)
From the end of November, there are a variety of Christmas fairs, called Marchés de Noel . The best known is the Marché de Noël Allemand in Quebec City, which recreates the atmosphere of the great European Christmas markets.
The traditional wooden kiosks offer local products, gifts, tasting of German products, and other typical foods. Extraordinary shows and beautiful choirs create the fair’s magical Christmas atmosphere. A free New Year’s Eve entertainment option in Quebec and suitable for all age groups.
Jean-Béliveau Place
You can’t go for an evening stroll in Quebec City without seeing some art. The installation Plein les yeux et les oreillesan interactive and illuminated trail, is perfect for those cold winter months, with its warming station and skating rink!
Once in the square, don’t miss out on its famous Christmas market – there will be plenty of delicious food from local vendors, as well as works by the city’s talented artists.
La Fête des Neiges de Montréal
The Montréal Snow Festival is a must for those who want to enjoy the cold and snowy season. This outdoor family festival brings together thousands of people in search of an unforgettable winter experience, with events scheduled over 4 weekends!
The festival takes place in Parc Jean-Drapeau, which organizes this annual celebration and offers many fun and exciting shows, such as musical and puppet performances, as well as snowshoeing or skiing on the Piste des Olympiques.
There are many options for enjoying outdoor activities!
Just enjoy it!
There are many concerts taking place at the end of the year in Quebec, especially on New Year’s Eve. You can visit the Place des Arts in Montréal, Le Théâtre du Nouveau Monde or even go to one of the small shows in local theaters!
Or, if you wish, enjoy the simple delights of being in Quebec for the holidays! In addition to the activities mentioned above, you can also:
- Ice skating outdoors or indoors.
- Try traditional Quebec foods such as tourtière (a meat pie) or maple caramel.
- Drinking hot chocolate or mulled wine.
- Watch the fireworks display in person or on television.
If you have the opportunity to experience the Christmas and New Year celebrations in Quebec, you will have added enchantment, light, delicious food, arts and culture to your New Year’s Eve. They will certainly be unforgettable moments!
As we’ve seen, there are many interesting things to do and see in all the provinces of Quebec during this time of year. If, by chance, none of those listed above sounded appealing, explore other options. You’re sure to find something you like!
