With such harsh winters, it’s no surprise that the people of Québec take every opportunity to gather together and enjoy the sunshine during the summer months. The Québecois are known for their diverse culture, their warm and caring spirit and their fun side. All essential ingredients for a successful party… And party they do. There is an event to celebrate just about anything along the shores of the Saint Lawrence River in the summer, from music and beer festivals to sports and cultural events. Don’t know where to start? Here’s a shortlist.
In this article, you will learn all about:
- Québec’s festivals and events
- What happens in Trois-Rivières in August
- The Îles-de-la-Madeleine’s sand castle contest
- Gaspé’s music festival
Letting loose in Québec City
Marvelling at Les Grand Feux Loto Québec
Each year, Old Québec literally explodes with colour as the famous pyrotechnics festival unfolds throughout the month of August. Several times a week, the area around the river becomes the main stage for a musical fireworks display of international calibre. But that’s not all! In addition to a world-class pyromusical event, visitors will be treated to street animations, free activities, parades, artistic performances, games and so much more. The best part? Cruise passengers only have to head to the nearest deck to be part of the fun!
Blink and you’ll miss them: attending the Grand Prix cycliste de Québec
Cycling fans couldn’t hope for a better time to visit picturesque Québec City. Registered on the UCI WorldTour calendar, this key race is made up of some of the greatest riders in the world. And they better be, as cycling in Québec City is no small feat! The capital features many hills, making this particular event a great one to watch. Steep descents, sharp corners and all this against the backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage site. With 16 laps to complete, riders are in for quite a challenge, and spectators are sure to watch an unforgettable performance.
A taste of summer at the Festibière de Québec
There’s a beer for everyone at the Festibière! Lager, IPA, stout, local microbrews infused with fruit, herbs, chocolate… You name it, you can sample it! Held right next to the port, the location couldn’t be more convenient for cruise guests with a penchant for exotic beers. And those without can also enjoy the warm and vibrant atmosphere, with dozens of non-alcoholic options available, as well as delicious street food, music and more. Come for the beer, stay for the vibe!
World-class events with a local feel: Trois-Rivières’s August calendar
Racing along the River’s shores: le Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières
Thought you had to head to the US to watch NASCAR racing? Think again! Our very own Trois-Rivières is the proud host of the most important racing event held on a street circuit in America. Inspired by the races in Monaco, the 1967 founding committee created a challenging circuit which now attracts some of the best pilots in North America, and contributes to talent development. Local legend Gilles Villeneuve raced and won on this circuit. Cruise guests hoping for excitement and nail-biting action will be well served here!
Fun, sun and sand!
There is no shortage of sand on Îles-de-la-Madeleine. So it’s quite apt that the area should host the largest amateur sandcastle competition in the world each year. Open to all, the event encourages everyone to try their hand at creating an elaborate construction. Enticing prizes are on offer for those builders who manage to build beautiful, elaborate and (particularly important!) structurally sound sandcastles. Sun, beach, activities and golden sand… If that’s not the perfect summer activity, we don’t know what is!
Discovering the diverse Québecois culture in Gaspé
The Festival de Musique du Bout du Monde has been a flagship event for the people of Gaspé and its visitors for many years. It aims to showcase the cultural diversity of the area through music, of course, but other mediums as well. Guests lucky enough to visit this port of call during the festival can expect several open-air shows, a parade, yummy local food and an electric atmosphere. One not to miss off the itinerary!
Québec in the summer: A cornucopia of activities
Whenever guests manage to visit Québec, one thing is certain: there’s plenty of things to do. Foodies, music lovers, beer enthusiasts or sports fans can find their fill in any of our nine ports of call. And with a festival for just about anything, visitors will leave with full bellies and plenty of memories!