5 Ways to Feel Like You’re in a Christmas Movie
What does every good Christmas movie have? Gently falling snowflakes, sparkling lights, picturesque streets, and a little magic in the air. In Québec City, all of this comes to life: snow-covered rooftops, the charming architecture of Old Québec, and twinkling decorations create a setting straight out of a Christmas movie. Strolling through Old Québec is always a special experience, but it’s especially enchanting in December. Here are a few things to do in Québec City to experience the magic of Christmas.
Genevieve Roussel
1Get Into the Spirit in Old Québec
The German Christmas Market has quaint wooden stalls, delicious sweets, sparkling Christmas trees, twinkling lights, mulled wine, and Christmas carols to warm your heart. It’s the perfect place to shop for all kinds of artisanal gifts. The artistic and gourmet event called Kaléidoscopes will make the German Christmas Market sites even more spectacular and festive from December 27 to 31.
Nearby, Boutique de Noël has Christmas collector’s items and souvenirs that are always a hit with the young and young at heart. Keep popping in and out of shops along rue Saint-Jean as you walk up to Place D’Youville.
- Emmanuel Coveney
2Skate in an Enchanting Setting
Set just outside the walls and gates of the Old City, the skating rink at Place D’Youville is a Christmas classic. Kiosks of the German Chrismas Market complete the Christmas scenery. If you start to feel a bit chilly, grab a hot chocolate and enjoy a warm break.
- Francis Gagnon
3Go Speeding Down a Hill
For a real rush, head to Au 1884 and try whizzing down an icy slide at up to 70 km/h. The slides are specially designed for toboggans that can take up to 4 passengers each. It’s insanely fun! Hold onto your tuques (or beanies) and get ready to make lasting memories. Check to make sure the slides are open, since the start date depends on the weather.
To recover from all that excitement, grab a hot bevvy from the Au 1884 stand and enjoy it on Dufferin Terrace as you admire the view.
- Petit-Champlain, Audet Photo
4Go Christmas Shopping in Petit-Champlain
The Petit-Champlain District is especially enchanting at Christmas time. With all the sparkling trees, decorations and European charm, shopping for gifts is a pure delight. You’ll find tons of gems and unique shops in the area, including Atelier La Pomme and Métiers d’art du Québec, both of which exclusively carry items by Québec artisans. Just a little further on in the Old Port, there’s also the museum gift shop at Musée de la civilisation, which carries unique gifts by a number of artisans. Be sure to stop for a delicious beaver tail along the way.
- Simon Clark
5Kick off the New Year Under the Stars
On December 31, the Grande Allée area comes alive to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. A traditional dance party, a New Year’s countdown, and fireworks are all part of the festivities in the heart of Québec City. It’s a great way to come together, dance, and ring in the New Year in a festive and lively atmosphere.
