25 Best Quebec City Christmas Events to Experience

Quebec City is an amazing place to visit all year long, but there's something extra special about traveling there during the holidays. There are so many magical Quebec City Christmas events and festivities happening throughout the city, including one of the best traditional Christmas markets in Canada.

There are so many fun things to do in Quebec City in the winter, and many attractions and activities begin during Christmastime. Why not experience the best of Quebec City in the winter and surround yourself with the magic of the season at the same time?

As a quick aside, the Quebec City Ice Hotel, Hotel de Glace, does not open until the beginning of January 2024. It is not possible to stay at the Ice Hotel during Christmastime in Quebec City. You may see it listed as one of the best things to do in Quebec City at Christmas, but you'll need to wait until the new year to experience it.

Quebec City Christmas: German Christmas Market

The Marché de Noël Allemand is the traditional German Christmas Market in Quebec City, and it's one of the most amazing Quebec City Christmas events. It takes place at several adjacent locations in Upper Town of Old Quebec: Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, Jardins de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, Place d'Armes, Rue Sainte-Anne and Place D'Youville.

There are vendors selling unique handmade wares, yummy treats, delicious mulled wine and other beverages, and Christmas decorations all around. The organizers take great care in selecting small businesses that feature talented artists, bringing only the best to the market.

The vendors at the wooden booths sell winter accessories, jewelry, clothing made from recycled materials, Christmas ornaments, wooden trinkets, ceramics, and so much more. There are also some local delicacies, such as flavoured vinegars and fruit jams from neighboring Ile d'Orleans.

To incorporate Quebec's local products to the German Market, there's plenty of maple syrup to be found! The German Christmas Market is free to attend and operates from November 23rd, 2023 to December 23rd, 2023.

German Christmas Market Tasting Tour

While you can visit the German Christmas Market for free, we suggest going on this German Christmas Market Tasting Tour. Justin and I were grateful that we experienced the Quebec City Christmas Market with a guide as we got to learn more about the history of this annual event.

You'll also learn more about the tradition of Christmas markets in Germany, and how this tradition made its way to Quebec City. On the way, you'll be able to participate in tastings of three German products: spiced mulled wine (glühwein), pretzels and traditional cake (stollen). This tour only happens for a limited time, don't miss out! Book your tour here.

The Grand Christmas Market

The Grand Christmas Market in Quebec City takes place at Le Grand Marché de Québec. This historic market is located in the heart of Old Quebec, and it hosts a Christmas market each year. This indoor holiday market unites over 200 food companies, artists and local artisans under one roof.

You'll find sumptuous food products, original gift ideas, tableware and decor, local handmade gifts, host and hostess gifts, and live entertainment. The Grand Christmas Market is free to visit and happens daily between November 24th and December 24th, 2023.

Old Quebec Christmas Walking Tour

One of the best ways to experience the Christmas spirit in Old Quebec is by taking a Christmas walking tour. Learn more about this UNESCO World Heritage Site from your knowledgeable local guide, who will be wearing authentic period clothing.

On this two hour guided walking tour, you'll learn about the Christmas traditions of Quebec first hand and walk through the oldest areas of the city. Visit Château Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace, Notre-Dame-de-Québec Basilica, and Place Royale, the cradle of French civilization in North America. Book your tour here.

Quebec City Christmas: Quartier Petit Champlain

Historic Old Quebec City in winter is such a magical place, and it is one great reason to plan your Quebec City winter holiday. Grab your camera and take a stroll around the cobblestone streets of Quartier Petit-Champlain in the winter for a magical experience. This street in the heart of the city is like a Christmas village come to life.

There's something even more enchanting when Quartier Petit-Champlain is covered with a light dusting of snow. Not only is Quartier Petit-Champlain an amazing place to get your holiday shopping done, but there are additional special Christmas events happening all season long.

Circus performances by Flip Fabrique will take place on December 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th,  23rd and 30th. Christmas choirs will sing holiday favourites on December 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 29th, 30th, 31st and January 1st.

Christmas Tree at Place Royale

Place Royale is another spot in Old Quebec that you can't miss at Christmas time. Christmas lights will illuminate the streets of Old Quebec around Quartier Petit-Champlain leading to Place Royale. In the middle of the square, there's a large decorated Christmas tree, perfect for photos.

In addition to the Christmas choirs in Quartier Petit Champlain, spectacular choirs will sing magical Christmas songs in front of the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church. Place Royale looks even more dazzling beneath a blanket of snow, so let's keep our fingers crossed for a white Christmas.

La Boutique de Noël de Québec

La Boutique de Noel is the ultimate Christmas store in Quebec City. It opened back in 1986 in Old Quebec and brings joy and delight to everyone who stops by. This is the place for beautiful decorations to deliver holiday enchantment right into your own home.

They sell Christmas decorations, ornaments, Christmas villages, nativity scenes, collector's items and souvenirs. Shopping here is an enchanting experience that will certainly bring a smile to your face.

Marché du Noël d'Antan de Cap-Santé

Marché du Noël d'Antan de Cap-Santé is an old fashioned Christmas market in the heart of Cap-Santé, a small village on the outskirts of Quebec City. More than 70 artisans will have their unique products and wares on display, so it's a great place to go Christmas shopping or treat yourself.

This quaint Christmas market also features live entertainment, which kicks off with the Christmas tree lighting. There's also live music, traditional dance, blacksmith demonstrations, and games for children. It's no wonder that this beautiful historic village hosts such a delightful holiday market each year. This event happens from November 24th to 26th, 2023 and it's free to attend.

Marché de Noël de l'île d'Orléans

Marché de Noël de l'île d'Orléans is a Christmas market on L'Ile d'Orleans, an island just outside of Quebec City on the Saint Lawrence River. It's held annually at Espace Félix-Leclerc, a museum and interpretation centre with exhibitions and 3km of trails.

This market features vendors selling locally produced food items and handmade gifts by local craftspeople. This island is famous for its fresh produce, wine and preserves, so you'll surely find some delectable goodies. This Christmas market near Quebec City is free to visit and takes place from December 1st to 3rd, 2023.

Salon des artisans de Québec

Salon des artisans de Québec is a holiday crafts fair in its 18th year. Under one roof, you'll find all sorts of amazing gifts, unique arts and crafts, and delicious locally produced food products. This is the place to find entirely unique presents that will wow your loved ones.

Even though this is a long running event in Quebec City, the organizers make changes to improve and add new features each year. Visit the Centre de foires from December 1st to 10th, 2023, and there is no cost to attend.

Ice Skating at Place D'Youville

Each winter, there is an outdoor skating rink at Place D'Youville in Quebec City. This is located near the fortification walls in the Upper Town of Old Quebec. The ice rink is free for everyone to use, and there are skate sharpening and rental services on site.

There's even a system in place to keep the rink frozen during some warmer periods of time. This is one of the best Quebec City Christmas and winter events that happens all season long. The rink is set to open on November 17th, 2023, and you can find more information here.

Tobogganing at Au 1884

At Dufferin Terrace near the Chateau Frontenac hotel, there's a steep toboggan slide that's an annual tradition. Au 1884 is a long luge that's one of the oldest attractions in the city, running since 1884. There are three runs side by side, and up to four passengers can ride a toboggan at a time.

Feel the cool breeze as you fly down the icy hill, approaching speeds of 70 km/hour. It's one of the most fun things to do in Quebec City at Christmas, and you'll want to add it to your Quebec City winter bucket list. Here's a short video to show you just how fast you go on the luge (also be sure to subscribe to our channel on YouTube after you watch the video for more great travel content!).

Tickets to the toboggan slide are sold on site or you can book them in advance. One ticket per ride is required. You can purchase single tickets or tickets in groups of four. This advance booking ticket includes three toboggan rides and hot chocolate. Au 1884 opens in December 2023. Here is the official website for more information.

Holiday Decorations at Château Frontenac

Seeing the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac in person is an absolute must when you travel to Quebec City. It's the most photographed hotel in the world, and it looks more like a castle than a hotel. Witness the majestic Chateau Frontenac from Lower Quebec, and then take the funicular to Upper Quebec for a closer look.

Even if you aren't staying at the Chateau Frontenac, guests are welcome to take a wander around the hotel lobby and even stop by for a drink at the hotel bar. The hotel is all decorated for the holiday season with Christmas trees, twinkling lights and decor. Stop by to take a look at the Christmas decorations. You can also book your stay at the Chateau Frontenac for a memorable Christmas vacation in Quebec City.

Quebec City Christmas Pop-up: Miracle au Maelstrom

Miracle au Maelstrom is a pop-up Christmas themed bar in Quebec City. You'll find Christmas wrapping paper adorning the walls, twinkling lights and decorations everywhere, and holiday boozy beverages. Aromas of cinnamon loft through the air as you sip drinks like the Snowball Old Fashioned and the Bad Santa.

There are 10 different Christmas cocktails in total, so you'll need to return at least a few times to try them all. Miracle au Maelstrom takes place from November 22nd to Christmas Eve, December 24th, 2023. Reservations aren't required: just show up! This is one of the most fun Quebec City Christmas events for those who love cocktails and vivid holiday decor.

The Nutcracker at Grand Theatre de Quebec

Another magnificent Christmas event in Quebec City is The Nutcracker by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens. This is a long-awaited event after a four year hiatus. You'll venture on a journey with shimmering sets and stunning costumers. More than 100 dancers will glide through magical lands to the music of Tchaikovsky, performed by Orchestre Symphonique de Québec.

You can attend The Nutcracker at the Grand Théâtre de Québec from December 7th to 10th. If you miss it in Quebec City, the performance will also take place in Montreal from December 14th to 30th at Salle Wilfred-Pelletier, Place des Arts.

Candlelight Concerts: The Nutcracker and More

Have you ever treated yourself to a Candlelight Concert? Essentially, they usually celebrate a theme or an artist. Classically-trained musicians put on a brilliant performance, surrounded by the ambiance of flickering candles.

There's a fabulous candlelight concert taking place in Quebec City over the holidays. The music of The Nutcracker and other famous Christmas songs will be performed by a string quartet at the Promotion Hall. These performances have a limited amount of tickets available and they will sell out. Get your tickets here. You can also check out all other candlelight concerts in Quebec City as there are several available!

Christmas Concerts in Quebec City

Christmas at Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral

Notre Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral is the oldest of all parishes in North America, north of Mexico. It's also the site of the first and only Holy Door in the Americas. It's a beautiful cathedral to visit any time of the year, but it's even more special during the holiday season.

While masses are performed regularly at Notre-Dame de Quebec, there's a very special midnight mass on December 24th. Here is a full listing of the masses happening on Christmas in Quebec City, including services at Notre-Dame de Quebec, Notre-Dame-la-Garde and others.

Snow Tubing at Village Vacances Valcartier

Village Vacances Valcartier is the largest winter theme park in North America, with more than 35 snow slides, snow rafting, and a high speed tubing slide. It's also home to many other wintery activities and it's also the home of the Hotel de Glace.

The park rates each snow slide from easy to very difficult. That way, you can stick to the calmer hills if you don't want anything too scary. If you're a thrill-seeker, you can head to one of the more intense slides. And you don't need to walk up the hills, there are convenient lifts to transport you to the top. I recommend booking your snow tubing excursion in advance.

Village Vacances Valcartier is about a 30 minute drive north of Quebec City. You're welcome to rent a car in Quebec City and drive yourself there. It's possible to park your car on site. This winter theme park opens on December 16th, just in time for the holidays.

Pamper Yourself at Strøm Spa

After wandering around Christmas markets and decorated city streets in Quebec City, it's time to relax and get pampered in a rejuvenating environment. Strøm Nordic Spa in Old Quebec offers a thermal experience by the beautiful St. Lawrence River.

Relax in the soothing waters of the whirlpool hot tubs. Alternate between the sauna, a cold plunge, and a eucalyptus steam bath. There are also relaxation areas with fireplaces, both indoors and outdoors. This Nordic spa in Quebec City is open all year long, whether it's the middle of the summer or the middle of a snowstorm! Book your ticket here, which includes your entry, locker, parking, and bathrobe/towel rental.

La Parade des Jouets (Christmas Parade)

La Parade des Jouets, or the Christmas Parade, takes place every November in Quebec City. Costumed characters, marching bands and dancers take over the streets in this festive celebration. In 2023, the parade takes place on November 11th. It starts at the corner of 52^e Rue and 1^st Avenue at 2:30 p.m. and finishes at Place Jean-Béliveau.

Bonus: More Things to Do in Quebec City

Of course, you can also visit many attractions and activities that are open all year long. Here are a few that I highly recommend checking out, no matter what season it is. Many of these are covered in our ultimate 3 day Quebec City itinerary.

• Tour the fortification walls of Quebec City.
• Take a stroll on the Governor's Promenade with amazing views of the St. Lawrence River.
• Check out the street art and public art in Quebec City.
• Discover some of the intriguing staircases in the city (there are many!).
• The Morrin Centre was once an old jail and it's the oldest English language library in Quebec City.
• Visit the Parliament Buildings in Quebec City or take a tour.
• Le Monastere des Augustines is an old monastery that's now a wellness centre.
• The Observatoire de la Capitale offers some of the most impressive panoramic city scenes of Quebec City. Get your ticket here.
• Ride the ferry to Levis for lovely city views at a low price.
• Montmorency Falls is only a short distance from Old Town Quebec. The site remains accessible without cable car service, except from December 26, 2023 to January 3, 2024 when it's operational. You can also go snowshoeing or ice climbing there in the wintertime.
• If you'd like to return again in the new year, attend one of the best winter festivals in the world, the Quebec Winter Carnival.

Where to Stay in Quebec City

We've had the opportunity to stay at four different hotels in Quebec City: two in Upper Town and two in Lower Town. Justin and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at all four hotels, although the two in Lower Town had the most character out of them all. We'll provide a brief overview of all four so you can decide accordingly.

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