Thought the best festivals in Québec happened during the summer months? Think again! Cooler days will not dampen the Québécois’ famous joie de vivre, and there are plenty of events around for those cruising along the Saint Lawrence River in September. From vegan to western festivals, here are some of our top recommendations to close the Québec festival season in style.
In this article, you will learn all about:
- Montréal’s much anticipated Gardens of Lights festival
- Trois-Rivières’ Festival international de la poésie
- Celebrating art during La Nuit des Galeries
- How to lift your spirit in Saguenay
And the award for most anticipated event goes to…
Montréal’s Gardens of Lights festival
This long-awaited, prime event is extremely popular among residents of Montréal, and for good reason. As if the botanical garden wasn’t spectacular enough, imagine meandering through its paths at nighttime while marvelling at the sight of hundreds of illuminated Chinese silk lanterns.
And that’s not all. Those lucky enough to visit the exhibition will get to see light shows, as well as elaborate light displays in the shape of people, animals and mythical creatures. These original creations are spread across three different cultural gardens: the Chinese, the Japanese and the First Nations garden. This incomparable event is definitely one to add to the itinerary!
Immerse yourself in culture
Wax poetic at Trois-Rivières Festival international de la Poésie
Famous singer-songwriter, poet and writer Felix Leclerc himself unequivocally declared Trois-Rivières capital of poetry. So it’s not surprising to hear that over 100 poets from 30 different countries gather here during this world-renowned event to share their writing. This is a golden opportunity for tourists to discover charming bars, cafés and bistros while being lulled by great artists reciting poems devised all over the world.
A night to celebrate art: Québec City’s Nuit des Galleries
For one night only, art galleries in Old Québec open their doors and allow visitors to mingle, admire stunning masterpieces, and meet with the local artists who created them. Those taking part can wander the streets of Old Québec with a glass of bubbly in hand, and discover unique pieces such as paintings, sculptures and photographs. A memorable night that’s bound to be etched in their memories forever!
Enjoy a tipple
Lift your spirit in Saguenay
The richness of the terroir québécois is truly celebrated during the Festival des spiritueux de Saguenay. Each bottle on display is filled with unique flavours crafted by passionate distillers from the area, many of whom have gained international recognition. Here, local distilleries and street food vendors come together to the absolute delight of everyone’s taste buds!
When nature takes centre stage
Whatever the weather, there is no shortage of things to do when cruising along the Saint Lawrence River. But cruises guests lucky enough to stop by during the month of September don’t even have to leave the ship to admire the spectacular fall foliage. This amazingly colourful sight can be observed just about everywhere along the shores of this majestic river.
Apple picking or pumpkin picking is also one of the great agritourism experiences to add to the list. Or better still, treat yourself to a warm glass of apple cider to ward off the cold!
Read our agritourism series for more tips on what to do while visiting La belle province.
Find out more about the Cruise the Saint Lawrence sustainable development guidelines on our sustainability page.