Best Winter Activities in Québec

Hello ! As proud residents of Quebec City, we'd be delighted to welcome you to one of our warm accommodations, located in the heart of the charming Old Limoilou district.

Winter in Quebec City isn't just a season; it's an experience filled with surprises, warmth and comfort. Here are just a few reasons why Quebec City is the ultimate winter destination, and how a stay in one of our apartments can make all the difference.

Winter Carnaval

7 to 11 February, 2025

The Québec Winter Carnival is the heart and soul of winter here. From February 7 to 16, 2025, this world-renowned festival offers a multitude of activities. Admire the ice sculptures at the Jardin des Sculptures, a magnificent site where Quebec winter comes to life through ephemeral works of art. Two night parades will take place, one of which will parade down 3rd Avenue on Saturday, February 8. Nearly 300 artists, dancers and musicians will take part, creating an absolutely unique spectacle.

Lower Town Parade (February 8) 

Starts at the intersection of 3e Avenue and 1re Rue. Follows 3e Avenue to end at the corner of 3e Avenue and 18th Street.

Upper Town Parade (February 15) 

Starts at intersection of Grande Allée and Avenue des Érables. Follows Grande Allée, concluding near the Parliament building.

And here's the best part: our apartments offer breathtaking views of the Carnival parade on February 8. Imagine yourself in the front row enjoying a hot chocolate in the comfort of your cozy space, or outside, in the heart of the carnival action as the illuminated floats march past right in front of you. A magical, unforgettable experience awaits you!

Enjoy the spectacular view of the Carnival parade from our properties.

Valentine's Day in Old Limoilou

Looking for a romantic getaway? The Vieux-Limoilou district will seduce you and turn your stay into an unforgettable experience.

Start with a delicious aperitif prepared by Claire at La Réserve grocery store. Indulge in artisan croissants from Borderon bakery. Allow yourself to stroll through one of the district's many cosy cafés. For dinner, reserve a table at one of Old Limoilou's not-to-be-missed restaurants. (*see our neighborhood guide). Something for everyone!

Looking for a little action? Don't forget your skates for a sporty and entertaining outing 😉 (Read the blog to the end to discover the best skating spots in town).

Our apartments are ideally located just 2.5 km from the Château Frontenac. Enjoy a romantic stroll through the heart of Old Quebec, then take a cozy break in front of the fireplace at Pub Oncle St-Antoine, located in Petit Champlain. To round off the day in style, enjoy a Bistro le Sam meal at the Château Frontenac.

Île d'Orleans is just a 10-minute drive away. We highly recommend a visit to Confiturerie Tigidou to discover and taste their exquisite products. Don't miss the Chocolaterie de l'île d'Orléans, where you can savor high-quality handmade chocolates, while admiring breathtaking scenery...

Finally, just 30 minutes away, discover the Hôtel de Glace. If you've never visited it, here's your chance! This ephemeral architectural marvel, made entirely of snow and ice, houses over 40 themed rooms and suites. For an even more magical experience, you can visit during the day or at night.

International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament

February 12-23, 2025

Experience hockey fever at Québec City's International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament, from February 12 to 23, 2025. For 62 years, the Videotron Centre has hosted this global event, showcasing 11 and 12-year-old talents worldwide. This emblematic event brings together talented young players from the four corners of the globe. It's a unique opportunity to witness the performances of future NHL stars.

Whether you're a field hockey fan or simply curious about the sport that makes the hearts of Canadians beat faster, this event will captivate you.

Our apartments are ideally located just 1 km from the Centre Vidéotron, putting you close to the action.


Snow Pentathlon

February 14 to 23, 2025

For lovers of adventure and winter challenges, the Pentathlon des Neiges is a must! This unique event invites participants to take up the challenge of five thrilling disciplines: skating, skiing, snowshoeing, running and cycling.

Whether you're there to cheer on the athletes or feel the irresistible urge to take on the experience yourself, the energy, sportsmanship and camaraderie that reign at Pentathlon des Neiges are simply contagious.

Get ready to experience an unforgettable moment in the festive atmosphere of this exceptional event!

Location: Plains of Abraham


Village Nordik in Port Quebec

February 7, to March 9, 2025

Discover ice fishing with a view in the heart of Old Town at Nordik Village. Enjoy music, a trail, family play areas and warm inflatable igloos for a unique experience.

Located in the Bassin Louise, the Village Nordik at the Port of Québec offers an unprecedented urban winter event. Immerse yourself in downtown Quebec City with ice fishing in inflatable igloos or directly on the basin. A distinctive family adventure awaits you in this exceptional winter setting.

Friday - 1 pm to 4 pm
Saturday, Sunday - 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm


Igloofest Québec

March 6 to 8, 2025

If you're a fan of music and lively evenings, Igloofest Québec is for you!

This open-air electronic music festival offers a unique experience where electrifying rhythms meet the magical atmosphere of Quebec winter.

Dress warmly, pack your best winter outfits and let the music take you away under the stars, alongside locals and visitors alike. It's undoubtedly one of the coolest ways (literally and figuratively!) to immerse yourself in Quebec City's dynamic, festive culture.

The event is reserved for people aged 18 and over.


Bataille Royale-Shred The North FIS World Cup

April 5 to 6, 2025

Join the action at Bataille Royale, a key event in Canada Snowboard's Shred the North Series World Cups. This spectacle includes an individual World Cup and a team World Cup, featuring the world's best Snowboard Cross athletes. 

Once again, Québec will host the snowboard cross FIS World Cup at Mont-Sainte-Anne this winter. Be ready for thrilling competitions and witness top-tier snowboarding talent in action.


Fat Bike

Fat bikes, a subgenre of mountain bikes with wide tires, provide enhanced traction on snow and sand due to their wider contact patch and low air pressure. Riding requires no special lessons; it's akin to regular biking with adjustments for snow. 

Accessible rentals make it budget-friendly, with bikes available in hourly blocks at most trail centers. Fat biking offers active contemplation of winter landscapes, providing warmth and access to scenic spots. Ideal for packed snow and groomed trails, these bikes open up winter vistas. 

Explore Québec City Area's fat bike trails for an immersive winter biking experience. Find locations for your Fat Bike experience here.

Village Vacances Valcartier

All year round!

Located just twenty minutes north of Québec City, Valcartier Vacation Village stands as the largest outdoor winter recreational center in North America. Open year-round, it caters to all seasons with family-friendly activities.

In winter, explore 35 tobogganing runs, including extreme options like Snow Rafting and the Tornado. In summer, enjoy 35 water slides, a massive wave pool, and thematic rivers. Bora Parc, an indoor water park, offers year-round aquatic fun with 14 slides, a wave pool, double surf wave, and an exciting river adventure. With an ice hotel, top-notch restaurants, a spa, and more, Valcartier is an all-encompassing destination for guests of all ages.


Hôtel de Glace

Early January to end of March.

Experience the unique charm of North America's only Ice Hotel, crafted entirely from ice and snow. Each winter brings a new theme, transforming the hotel into a spectacular work of art. 

Explore the Grand Hall, chapel, ice slide, rooms, and suites, concluding your tour at the Ice Bar with a cocktail served in an ice glass. Whether for a day visit or a daring overnight stay, Hôtel de Glace offers a wintry romantic retreat or a memorable gathering with family and friends. Don't miss this ultimate winter experience!


Ice skating: a timeless Quebec tradition

The magic of the Quebec winter takes on its full meaning on outdoor skating rinks. Whether in the heart of the city or in a peaceful park, skating remains a must-do activity, appreciated by locals and visitors alike. Here are some of the best places to strap on your skates:

  • Place d'Youville - A picturesque skating rink at the gateway to Old Quebec, offering an enchanting historic backdrop.
  • Discoglace du Port de Quebec - A festive experience where music and lights transform the ice into a winter dance floor.
  • Parc Cartier-Brébeuf - A popular spot in the Limoilou district, offering a peaceful, natural setting near 8th Street.

Limoilou's skating history is etched in the neighborhood's architecture. Many of the wrought-iron railings that adorn the houses were made from scraps from the old Quebec skate factory-a discreet but living legacy of this winter tradition.

Skiing in Quebec City: spectacular views from the slopes

Winter in Quebec City wouldn't be complete without a day on the slopes. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner, the ski resorts near Quebec City offer a diversity of landscapes, breathtaking panoramas and excellent conditions all season long. Here are some of the best destinations:

  • Mont-Sainte-Anne - A must-see resort with runs for all levels and breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.
  • Stoneham - Famous for its evening skiing and lively après-ski atmosphere.
  • Le Massif de Charlevoix - Offers the greatest vertical drop east of the Rockies, with spectacular scenery.
  • Le Relais - A family resort located just minutes from downtown Quebec City, ideal for a quick getaway on the slopes.

With a wide variety of trails and easy access from the city, skiing in Quebec City is an experience not to be missed.

Your winter getaway awaits! So what are you waiting for? Put on your warmest coat, get ready for some magical moments, and let us turn your winter into an unforgettable memory.

We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the magic of Quebec City with you. We look forward to seeing you soon!

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