Things to Do in Québec City During the Holiday Season
With its enchanting lights, festive decorations, European-style architecture, and blanket of snow, Québec ranks among the top destinations for experiencing the magic of Christmas. Here are our recommendations for activities to enjoy during the holiday season, along with places open on Christmas and New Year's Day.
Activity Ideas at Christmas Time
Add these activities and events to your agenda to fully experience the holiday season in Québec. It is recommended to check the hours with the businesses before heading out.
Christmas Markets
Most Christmas markets take place before the holiday break, such as the Québec City German Christmas Market (ending December 23) and the Grand Christmas Market (ending December 24).
Kaléidoscopes
From December 27th to 31st, the Kaléidoscopes festival invites to immerse yourself in the heart of Québécois culture. Music, theatre, visual arts, gastronomy... A rich and diverse program awaits you in Old Québec.
Circus and Choirs Performances in the Petit-Champlain
This historic neighbourhood, with its unique charm, comes alive during the holiday season with choirs and circus performances at different times.
Toboggan Festival
From December 29th to 31st, the Grande Allée area comes alive for the Toboggan New Year's Eve celebrations. The program includes a winter village, outdoor performances, and various activities. On December 31st, we ring in the new year with classic New Year's Day traditional music.
Ice Skating
We lace up our skates and head to the many ice rinks in the Québec City area. The refrigerated rinks at Place D'Youville, the Plains of Abraham, and the Discoglace in the Old Port offer excellent ice quality, no matter what the weather has in store.
For skating away from the elements, head to Méga Parc or to Centre de glaces Intact Assurance.
Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel)
The Ice Hotel is scheduled is scheduled to open on December 27, depending on weather conditions and construction progress. Be sure to check their website for the latest updates.
Onhwa' Lumina
This 1.2 km forest trail takes visitors on a magical journey, combining nature and technology while showcasing the rich history of the Wendat Nation.
AURA at St-Roch Church
St-Roch Church comes alive with AURA, the immersive creation by Moment Factory that has already captivated audiences in Montreal and Paris. Over 45 minutes, the iconic space is transformed into a grand spectacle, where breathtaking projections, enveloping light displays, and orchestral music immerse visitors in a stunning visual and auditory journey.
Snow sliding is the ultimate winter activity to delight every member of the family. It’s sure to leave both kids and adults wanting more!
Museums and Indoor Attractions
Museums, amusement centres, indoor attractions in Old Québec... Québec City offers several options to escape the whims of the weather. Please note that the vast majority of these attractions are closed on December 25th and January 1st.
Montmorency Waterfalls Park
Montmorency Falls is stunning both in summer and winter. Experience the power of this natural wonder just 15 minutes from downtown.
Outdoor Activities
Less than 30 minutes from Québec City, enjoy winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, dogsledding, or fat biking. Depending on the weather, most outdoor centres are open throughout the holiday season, but some are closed on December 25th and January 1st. Be sure to check ahead before heading out!
Nordic Spas
Nordic spas are perfect for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of Christmas festivities.
What Is Open on Christmas Day
Here are some activity suggestions available on December 25th:
- Place D’Youville skating rink
- Toboggan Slide on the Dufferin Terrace
- Christmas choirs in the Petit-Champlain
- Montmorency Waterfalls Park (site accessible, but no services available)
- Bora Parc indoor waterpark
- Snow tubing at Village Vacances Valcartier winter playground
- 25 American Stories of Old Québec walking tour with Québec 1608
- Walking city tour or guided visit of Château Frontenac with Cicérone Tours
- Bus tour with Unitours
- Musée du Monastère des Augustines (museum)
- Nordique Spa Stoneham and Spa des Neiges
- Ski and outdoor activities at Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham
- Dogsledding with Les Secrets Nordiques
- Grand Mini-Golf
What Is Open on New Year's Day
Here are some activity suggestions available on January 1st:
- Place D’Youville skating rink
- Toboggan Slide on the Dufferin Terrace
- Christmas choirs in the Petit-Champlain
- Montmorency Waterfalls Park
- Bora Parc indoor waterpark
- Snow tubing at Village Vacances Valcartier winter playground and Ice Hotel
- 25 American Stories of Old Québec walking tour with Québec 1608
- Walking city tour or guided visit of Château Frontenac with Cicérone Tours
- Bus tour with Unitours
- Musée du Monastère des Augustines (museum)
- Strøm spa nordique, Nordique Spa Stoneham and Spa des Neiges
- Ski and outdoor activities at Mont-Sainte-Anne et Stoneham
- Grand Mini-Golf
Restaurants That Are Open for the Holidays in Québec City
Finding a restaurant open on Christmas and New Year's Day can be challenging. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together our recommendations for restaurants open during the holiday season.