Quebec Events

The Fete nationale du Quebec (Quebec National Holiday) is the official holiday of the city of Quebec. It falls on the same day as that of the saint, John the Baptist, and has tended to obscure the religious holiday. Nevertheless, most French-speaking Canadians prefer to call this Saint-Jean Baptiste Day, and celebrate their cultural and national pride with lively parties and colourful parades as well as religious services. There is a pagan component to this too as the holiday falls on midsummer's day, when a tradition developed, many centuries ago, to light bonfires to celebrate the arrival of the warmer weather. So, in Canada and particularly in Quebec, these festivities combine the ancient rites of the summer solstice - a period of light and hope - with the traditional celebration in honour of the Patron Saint of French Canadians.

Historically, 24 June has marked the midsummer solstice and the religious feast day of Saint-Jean-Baptiste (St John the Baptist). Today it’s become a celebration of Quebecois pride. Quebec natives and French Canadians throughout the country commemorate this annual holiday with vibrant local festivities. Montreal in particular goes to town with a spectacular show of musical performances, fun family entertainment and a flamboyant parade.

Conceived in 1977, the Lanaudiere International Festival has become Quebec's foremost classical music event, on a par with leading festivals in Europe and the United States. From July 9th to August 7th, it attracts top conductors and ensembles and has won many awards, including several prizes for the best tourist event in Quebec. The Festival International de Lanaudiere attracts music lovers from around the world to this small town with its very special venues, among them the Amphitheatre de Lanaudiere. A magnificent tree-lined avenue leads to a spectacular site on the crest of a hill, overlooking the stage and the 10,000 seat, partly-covered amphitheatre. For a memorable evening concert under the stars, listening to an orchestra of international repute, this festival is hard to match.

The gastronomy festival offers curious visitors the chance to appreciate wines, ciders, cheese, and chocolates from various parts of the world.