09 Dec 6 reasons to celebrate Christmas in Quebec City

Quebec City is a dream destination for the perfect white Christmas. With its snowy landscapes, charming streets, and warm atmosphere,  the city transforms into a fairy tale during the holiday season.

Let me tell you 6 reasons why Quebec City is the ideal place to celebrate this time of year.

1- Old Quebec City: a postcard setting

From the beginning of winter, Old Quebec City transforms with festive decorations illuminating the streets and historic buildings, creating a magical glow. The snow-covered roofs, garlands, and twinkling lights create an enchanting atmosphere, making you feel like you’re walking through a Christmas movie set.

Here are 5 of the most beautifully decorated places in Quebec City:

Petit-Champlain district and Place Royale:

The Petit Champlain district transforms into a picturesque winter landscape when covered in snow, with Christmas lights illuminating the area. At Place Royale, visitors can admire a magnificent Christmas tree alongside the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church, which is recognized as one of the oldest churches in North America.

Additionally, this area features a variety of charming local artisan shops, providing an opportunity to explore unique crafts while savoring a warm hot chocolate from Café Smith.

Les jardins de l’Hôtel-de-ville:

Step into the enchanting world of the Quebec City German Christmas Market, where the festive atmosphere comes alive! The Christmas decorations are nothing short of breathtaking, creating a magical experience that will leave you in awe. Don’t miss out on this wonderland of holiday cheer!

Place d’Youville :

Welcome to a magical fairy tale scene! In the heart of the place, you’ll find a festive ice rink surrounded by the stunning lights and decoration on beautiful buildings: the Capitole de Québec, the Palais Montcalm, and the Porte Saint-Jean.

It’s the perfect spot to enjoy some skating, and don’t worry if you don’t have skates—rentals are available right on-site!

Dufferin Terrace and Château Frontenac:

Château Frontenac, an iconic jewel of Quebec City, gleams with enchanting beauty during the holiday season.

 

Its majestic architecture harmonizes perfectly with the festive atmosphere of Dufferin Terrace, which is transformed into a true winter wonderland. You have a great view of the St-Lawrence river and Petit Champlain district illuminations at night.

On the Dufferin Terrace, you can try a ride on a century-old toboggan run. Admire the incredible view of the Château Frontenac and the St. Lawrence River during your descent. It is an experience that will remain etched in your memory.

The opening is scheduled for December 13, 2024, all of which depends on the temperature and snow accumulation. You can find all the information on their website.

Avenue Cartier:

Avenue Cartier shines particularly brightly during the holiday season. This enchanting area is filled with delightful boutiques, cafés, bakeries, and gourmet restaurants that are worth visiting.

Take a moment to explore the charming Zone Maison boutique for unique souvenirs, and be sure to visit Chocolats Favoris, where you can fill Christmas stockings with exquisite, high-quality treats. The Plains of Abraham and the Musée des Beaux-Arts are a 5-minute walk away if you want to take a nice stroll.

2- The Quebec City German Christmas Market

The Quebec City German Christmas Market is a magical experience that transports visitors to the heart of European traditions while celebrating the warm spirit of Quebec City. Located in Old Quebec City, this enchanting market is the ideal place to immerse yourself in a festive and authentic atmosphere during the holiday season.

As soon as you arrive, you will be charmed by the beautifully decorated wooden chalets, lit up by twinkling lights. Stroll from chalet to chalet to discover unique artisanal products, local handmade crafts and perfect gifts for your loved ones. It is also an opportunity to taste delicious German specialties such as mulled wine, grilled sausages and pretzels.

Children’s entertainment, such as Christmas stories and visits from Santa Claus, add a touch of magic for families.

The Quebec City German Christmas Market is much more than a market: it is a cultural and magical experience, ideal for soaking up the magic of Christmas in the beautiful city of Quebec.

 

 

Why not join a fun gourmet tour at the Quebec City German Christmas Market with Cicerone Tours? It’s a delightful way to explore Quebec’s traditions alongside a friendly and experienced local guide. Head over to their website to book your spot!

3- Celebrate the New Year in style with the Toboggan Festival

Get ready for an unforgettable celebration! From December 29 to 31, 2024, come celebrate in the enchanting heart of Old Quebec City for the Toboggan Festival—the ultimate winter festival to ring in the New Year! Experience the excitement of this must-attend event, where festive vibes and breathtaking winter scenery create a magical atmosphere.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to celebrate the New Year like never before!

Toboggan is 3 days of festivities with a completely free program mixing electronic, traditional and Quebec music!

The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the midnight countdown, accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display!

The festivities are merely a few minutes’ walk from the Manoir D’Auteuil—don’t miss out on the excitement right at your doorstep!

4-The Québec City Ice Hotel

The Hôtel de Glace in Quebec City is a true winter wonderland and a unique experience not to be missed!

Every winter, this ephemeral hotel is built entirely of ice and snow, offering a setting worthy of a fairy tale.

Just about 30 minutes from Quebec City, the Hôtel de Glace invites you to discover an icy world that is as fascinating as it is captivating.

As soon as you arrive, you will be impressed by the ice sculptures that adorn the rooms, corridors and common areas. Each year, the hotel adopts a new artistic theme, making each visit unique, even for regulars. You can tour the rooms, admire the finely crafted sculptures and even try out the ice seats and beds – covered, of course, with fur pelts for comfort!

Visitors can also head to the ice bar to enjoy cocktails served in glasses… made of ice!

A magical experience to have at least once in a lifetime!

5- Outdoor Activities in Quebec City

For those who love the great outdoors, Quebec warmly welcomes you with a wonderful selection of winter activities. Whether you enjoy the peacefulness of cross-country skiing, the thrill of downhill skiing, or the fun of skating, there’s something for everyone.

You can explore the beauty of the snow while snowshoeing, enjoy the excitement of dog sledding, or glide down the slopes on a snow tube. And for a cozy experience, don’t miss out on a charming sleigh ride. Embrace the magic of winter in Quebec.

Here are some places located downtown or nearby where you can practice your favorite sport or even discover a new winter activity:

Plains of Abraham: refrigerated skating rink, cross-country ski trails and rental service available.

Place D’Youville: Refrigerated skating rink and rental service available.

Domaine Maizeret: Skating rink, cross-country skiing, fat bike, snow scooter and rental service available.

Parc de la chute Montmorency: Ice climbing

Village Nordik: Ice fishing in the St. Lawrence River. This is one of my favorite winter activities with friends !

Mont Saint-Anne: downhill skiing, rental service available

No matter what activity sparks your interest, visit us at reception and let us inspire you with our guidance.

6- A Festive and Gourmet New Year’s Eve in Old Quebec City

Quebec’s culinary traditions shine during the holidays, making Christmas Eve an experience you won’t want to miss.

Delight in delicious dishes such as tourtière, succulent stuffed turkey, hearty meatball stew, and decadent Yule log. Be sure to check out the exceptional special menus offered by restaurants in Quebec City for this festive occasion; they truly enhance the holiday spirit!

Here are some of our team’s favorite addresses:

Restaurant Aux Anciens Canadiens
Restaurant Chez Boulay
Restaurant La Buche et la Bûchette

Spending Christmas in Quebec City means diving into a magical atmosphere where the magic of winter comes to life. Whether you’re looking for traditions, outdoor adventures or delicious treats, Quebec City offers you an authentic and warm Christmas. This city is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories in the heart of an enchanting winter setting.

Book your stay with us by clicking here or by calling us at 418.694.117