What to Do in Québec City in December

Thanks to its grandiose light displays and its wooden kiosks which emit the smells of cinnamon, mulled wine and pretzels, the German Christmas Market recreates the atmosphere of the great European Christmas markets in the heart of Old Québec. And it’s not the only one — several other Christmas markets across the region also kick off in December.

After the German Christmas Market wraps up, the sites remain lively with the Kaléidoscopes event, which brings theatre and music to the area throughout the Holiday Season.

Starting December 5, Saint-Roch church will come alive with AURA, the immersive creation by Moment Factory that has already captivated audiences in Montréal and Paris. For 45 minutes, the nave transforms into a magical world: breathtaking projections, enveloping light displays, and orchestral music transport visitors on a stunning visual and sound journey, where every detail delights the senses.

With the installation of decorations in the neighbourhoods, the first snowflakes and themed events, it's easy to get into the holiday spirit! Petit-Champlain and Place-Royale are among the best places to immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere. Impressive performances by the Flip Fabrique circus troupe and choirs add a touch of wonder on December weekends.

This year again, the Grande Allée sector will come alive during the Toboggan – New Year Evenings event, a major winter urban music festival to mark the end of the year.

Every good Christmas movie has a few key ingredients: gently falling snowflakes, sparkling lights, gorgeous scenery, and that feeling of magic in the air. No surprise, then, that the heaps of snow, beautiful old buildings, decorations, and warm and friendly people here tend to make you feel like you’re in one! Here are a few things you can do in Québec City to experience the magic of Christmas.

With the arrival of snow and cold weather, it's the perfect time to add outdoor activities to your plans. Here are some great options to consider:

• Snow tubing: Village Vacances Valcartier is set to open on December 19, while tobogganing on the Dufferin Terrace is expected to start on December 5.
• Ice skating: The ice rink at Place D’Youville is already open while the Discoglace will open on December 20.
• Alpine skiing: Mont-Sainte-Anne , Stoneham and Massif de Charlevoix resorts are planning to open on the weekend of December 6.
• Cross-country skiing: Forêt Montmorency has been in operation since mid-November while the other centres will gradually open over the coming weeks.

• Fatbiking: Empire 47 and Sentiers du Moulin have already opened a few trails, but the full network across the various centres should be rideable soon.