Baby, it’s cold outside! But it’s not too cold to enjoy Quebec’s Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Quebec). This is the 69th year of Quebec’s Winter Carnival, and the event is one of the world’s largest. Thousands will visit to take in night parades, snow and ice sculptures, canoe races, and other iconic winter activities, food, and drink. This year’s theme is Énerve-toi l’pompon, which suggests that people celebrate with exuberance.
As in previous years, the Carnival mascot is Bonhomme, a joyful snowman. Bonhomme spreads magic wherever he goes — and it’s considered good luck to meet him! Take a look at the festival schedule to see where he can be found throughout the celebration. You’ll also want to take a look at festival hours.
Note that this year, the festival’s earliest-scheduled events were delayed because of weather. See this page for more on how they were impacted.
This year’s carnival takes place from February 4 to 12, 2023. To get into the carnival, you’ll need to purchase and wear a Bonhomme effigy (that’s your ticket). Most activities are included in the cost of admission.
Key Activities And Events
1. Quebec Winter Carnival Parades
If you do nothing else, make plans to see one of these two night parades. The Limoilou Night Parade was be held on February 4, the first day of the carnival, right after the opening ceremony. The Upper Town Night Parade will be on Saturday, February 11. The parade routes are here.
2. The Ice Sculptures
You’ll definitely want to visit the iconic Scotiabank Sculptures Snow Route. Enjoy 100 snow and ice sculptures that are scattered around town.
3. Bonhomme Ice Palace
The Bonhomme Ice Palace is ephemeral — it melts, so each year a new one is designed. This year, the palace’s theme is “Bonhomme’s Laboratory.” You’ll be invited to experiment with ice instruments and participate in musical workshops. In addition, Bonhomme’s Ice Slide is a frosty way to enjoy this area. The Ice Palace hosts a variety of other activities, as well as an ice bar.
Pro Tip: Go at night for amazing LED lighting.
4. Great Food And Carnival Drinks
Winter certainly doesn’t limit the availability of comfort foods and carnival drinks! Originally, Winter Carnival was all about hearty eating and drinking before Lent. Poutine is a favorite, along with Beaver Tails, maple taffy, and the carnival’s signature drink, Caribou, served in an ice glass at an ice bar.
5. The Ice Canoe Races
This iconic event is held on the first Sunday of the carnival. This year, that was February 5. Crews dodge chunks of ice as they make their way down the St. Lawrence River.
Pro Tip: The best views are at river level.
6. Winter Sleigh Rides
Want that old-time feeling? Go for a carriage ride through the Old City. A blanket will keep you warm as you take in the best views.
7. St. Hubert Snow Bath
Here’s where you can put on a swimsuit and plunge into a snow bath, but only if you are very brave, over 18, and maybe a little crazy. Not any of those things? You can visit the St. Hubert Snow Bath on Sunday, February 12, where you can see crazy, half-naked people trying to dunk themselves in the icy water. Really? What are they thinking?
8. Tube And Toboggan Rides
How about a 500-foot icy descent? The Urban Slide tube ride. Or, visit the tube park at Village Vacances Valcartier, which offers everything from “puppy” runs to daredevil escapades.
If the toboggan is more your style, you’ll enjoy the Toboggan Slide. Located close to Chateau Frontenac, this century-old ride can reach speeds up to 43.5 mph (70 km/h). When your eyes aren’t shut, enjoy the beautiful views as you hurtle down. Tickets are $3 per person.
9. Ice Skating
Even if you are not a “twinkle toes,” you’ll enjoy ice skating with Bonhomme at Place D’Youville and other locations throughout the city. Get more information here.
10. Music Shows
There will be five evening music shows in the Loto-Québec Zone, which is the site of Bonhomme’s Palace. Enjoy musical styles ranging from new country to hip-hop to electronic sounds. Something for everyone!
Tips For A Great Visit
1. Where To Stay
If you want to keep with the Carnival’s ice and snow theme, book a stay at the Hôtel de Glace, the only ice hotel in North America. You can even choose a themed room in which everything is made of ice!
The Hilton Quebec, near every carnival location, is one of the best hotels to stay at. You’ll enjoy fantastic views of Quebec City from your room. Other great hotels include Le Manoir d’Auteuil, Hotel Nomad, and Hotel Le Clos Saint-Louis. For a real treat, stay at the historic Chateau Frontenac, with astonishing views of the St. Lawrence River and the Old City. Check out Vrbo and Airbnb for more alternatives.
2. Things To Bring And Wear
It’s important that you wear your effigy (ticket). It needs to be seen by security to access carnival events. As for most winter activities anywhere, layer on the clothes and wear comfortable, sturdy footwear. It won’t hurt to bring wet wipes or hand sanitizer. You’ll thank me for this tip after you’ve eaten a sticky treat or used a porta-potty.
3. Ways To Make Your Visit More Enjoyable
It would be hard to see the whole carnival in one day. Your effigy/ticket is good for every day of the carnival, so spread out the activities.
You’ll quickly realize that the porta-potties are gross. Plan ahead (as much as you can) by using the facilities at places you eat or in your nearby hotel room.
The parades draw thousands of spectators! You can get a great spot at the start of the route, but you’ll still need to go early.
Hand and foot warmers aren’t only for winter football games and camping trips. Get some before you visit the carnival (and a few spares)!
Some areas of the Winter Carnival are steep and icy. Strap-on ice spikes for your footwear can really make a difference!
4. How To Get There And Get Around
You can fly into the Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL) or the Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ). Surprisingly, Winter Carnival is very walkable. It’s a pedestrian paradise! If you stay in the center city, you’ll find that walking is much more convenient than driving a car and parking.
Want to learn more about visiting Quebec City? Take a look at these TravelAwaits articles:
