7 Amazing Festivals to Check Out in and around Quebec City

Aah, Quebec City! 

Ville de Québec, the Capital city of the Province of Quebec is steeped in the remnants of a glorious past, which still expresses itself through the architecture, people, food, and of course… the festivals.

When you think of Quebec City, you think of a rich heritage of European artistry & elegance, juxtaposed against the natural wonders of North American soil.

The art galleries, historic sites, and museums are bound to take you on a journey down the history lane, catalysed by the city’s stone buildings and winding streets. The modern Quebecois is spoilt for choice when it comes to the large variety of festivals encompassing a kaleidoscope of cultures, that shines brightly throughout the whole of Canada.

But we are not just here to just talk about the cultural supremacy of the City.

We know that you’ve asked yourself the following questions, a thousand times over the past couple of years:
‘Will festivals happen in 2022?’ ‘Will festivals be cancelled this year?’ ‘When will festivals return?’ ‘When can festivals happen again in Canada’?

And that is why we have compiled a list of 7 Amazing Festivals in Quebec City, that you cannot afford to miss in 2022! 

The light that shines bright through the faces of festival-goers is a testament to why festivals are important in our life. They inform us, entertain us, and make our lives richer. This is how festivals bring us together. This is how festivals promote culture. This is how festivals unite us!

And if you are one of those people who is wondering: ‘Are festivals safe?’, then you do not need to worry. The Canadian government has been taking the necessary steps to ensure that festivals are celebrated, keeping in mind the health & safety of the participants.

Now, let’s begin with our awesome list, shall we?

1. KWE! Meet with Indigenous Peoples

Celebrate the First Nations and Inuit cultures and traditions of North America, in the KWE! Meet with Indigenous Peoples festival. Discover vibrant civilizations that are millennia old. You can also Meet with Indigenous Peoples, and learn from them firsthand, what it’s like living in modern‑day Québec.
They even host workshops on various traditions, that are engaging, as well as insightful.

Whether you want to learn about Indigenous life, buy items from artisans sharing their craft, or experience traditional Indigenous cooking, dancing, singing, and movies, the KWE festival will surely satisfy your needs.
If you’ve ever wanted to know more about Québec’s First Peoples, this is the event you’ve been waiting for!

2. Grands Feux Loto-Québec Fireworks

Do you like to celebrate life with a bang? Are you the kind of person, who does not like to hold back, when having a gala time? 
Well then, the Grands Feux Loto-Québec Fireworks is going to impress you for s

ure. With six evenings of awe-inspiring pyrotechnics and music, the festival will surely make your nights a little brighter! (No pun intended)

This mesmerizing festival takes place above the St. Lawrence River between Québec City and Lévis. The magic starts as dusk beckons, with fireworks choreographed by talented artists who push the envelope each year.
A grand, exuberant, visual treat, to say the least.

3. Où tu vas quand tu dors en marchant…?

Creativity takes a leap at the Où tu vas quand tu dors en marchant..?.
Each year, intricately designed tableaux by Carrefour international de théâtre de Québec take over a part of Quebec city, that transports thousands of festival-goers to a man-made paradise you’ll remember for a long time.

Creating such fascinating worlds is no easy feat, and the dedication and skill of the artists are evident.
Please do not miss this festival, if you are in Quebec City, around late May to early June.

4. Wendake International Pow Wow

Another awesome festival, featuring First Nations artists from across North America, the Wendake’s International Pow Wow is a must-visit for those looking to explore Native America through songs, dance, and traditional food.

The experience is bound to bring you closer to the culture, traditions, and customs of North America’s fi

rst peoples.
You also get to witness dance and drum competitions, handicraft exhibitions, curated conferences, and fun children’s activities.

5. New France Festival (Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France)

Want to revisit the early days of Quebec and its French origins? Head over to the New France Festival in early August, where you’ll witness Quebec of the 17th and 18th centuries.

A must-visit for history buffs, the festival also offers traditional French cuisine and showcases period dresses as well.
Truly a masterpiece!

6. Festival Celtique de Québec

Celebrating the region’s multicultural Celtic links, The Festival Celtique de Québec acknowledges and honors the Breton, Welsh, Scottish, Cornish, and Irish heritage.
Being the biggest Celtic festival in the entire continent of North America, Festival Celtique de Québec offers a range of activities that celebrate the rich culture of people with French, Irish, and Scottish ancestry.

You can enjoy classic Scottish Highland Games, indulge in Celtic cuisine, or enjoy sitting under the stars and munching away at Celtic feasts.
As the Irish saying goes: ‘Ní neart go cur le chéile’, which translates to – There is strength in unity!

7. Festival d’Opera De Québec

A treat for Opera lovers, the Festival d’Opera De Québec features internationally renowned artists who enthrall the audiences with their enigmatic performances. Whether you are an Opera connoisseur or just starting out with the sophisticated genre of music, this festival will surely enrich your evenings with its outdoor shows, cocktail concerts, and recitals.

A charming festival to be at, with friends and family!  Some major past performances include artists like The Magic Flute directed by Robert Lapage and Véronique Gens. They even offer French and English translations of the performances, projected onto screens above the stage as well, so that you follow along with ease.

Conclusion

Any trip to Quebec City would be incomplete without visiting the above festivals. The city offers a variety of cultural events that add magic to your stay.
Don’t forget to check out the restaurants in and around the venues, so that you don’t get hungry. Check out SpotEv’s extensive list of eateries, pubs, and cafes, that offer exquisite cuisine.

And if you liked this article, do share it with your friends and family as well.
Have a good one! Au Revoir et bon été au Québec!