Québec knows how to throw a festival, whether it’s deep in winter or bursting with summer energy. The province mixes old-world charm with big, modern celebrations, drawing locals and travelers alike to its parades, music, food, and quirky traditions. Some events are rooted in French-Canadian heritage, while others feel completely unexpected, but all of them offer something worth experiencing.
Here is a list of 17 upcoming festivals that are well worth penciling into your calendar.
Carnaval de Québec
Held every winter in Québec City, this is one of the world’s largest winter festivals. Ice palaces, night parades, snow sculptures, and Bonhomme — the event’s iconic mascot — bring a magical energy to the frozen streets.
It’s cold, but locals come out in droves, wrapped in layers and carrying maple taffy. If you’re looking for a snowy party, this is the one to see.
Montréal en Lumière
This February festival mixes food, art, and live music with one major twist — most of it happens after dark. Light installations and late-night activities turn downtown Montréal into a playground of color and sound.
Local chefs also take center stage, with tasting events that draw crowds. It’s part culture, part carnival, and totally Montréal.
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Osheaga
Set on Parc Jean-Drapeau’s leafy island, Osheaga is one of Canada’s biggest music festivals. Indie bands, hip-hop stars, and electronic DJs share the stage across three full days in August. It has a relaxed vibe, great food trucks, and water stations to keep festival-goers cool.
It’s a solid pick for anyone who likes music without the chaos of mega-festivals.
Festival d’été de Québec
Ten days of back-to-back concerts make this July event a summertime staple in Québec City. Past lineups have included everyone from The Rolling Stones to Billie Eilish. Outdoor stages are scattered across the historic city, with thousands packing the Plains of Abraham to dance under the stars.
It’s massive, but well-organized and welcoming.
Montréal International Jazz Festival
This isn’t just for jazz lovers. While it started with classic swing and blues, the lineup now includes soul, pop, and even hip-hop. Many concerts are free and held outdoors, bringing crowds into the heart of downtown.
It’s laid-back and family-friendly, with something happening on every corner.
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Just For Laughs
Every July, comedians from around the world land in Montréal for this legendary festival. The shows range from big headliners to experimental acts, so there’s something for every sense of humor.
Even the street performers bring the laughs during the day. It’s the kind of event where you might end up discovering your new favorite comic.
Fête des Neiges de Montréal
This winter event at Parc Jean-Drapeau is all about snow — and how much fun you can have in it. There are tubing, skating trails, and interactive games for kids, plus live shows and food trucks. It’s more relaxed than Carnaval but still full of winter charm.
Dress warm and bring extra gloves.
POP Montréal
This indie music and arts festival leans into the underground scene. Think lesser-known bands, zines, art shows in old buildings, and film screenings that feel more like secret gatherings.
It’s held in September and draws a creative crowd. If you like events that feel a little offbeat, this one delivers.
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Festival Western de Saint-Tite
Québec’s answer to the Wild West, this rodeo event transforms a small town into cowboy central every September. There’s bull riding, line dancing, and more cowboy boots than you’ve ever seen in one place.
The town’s population swells for two weeks, and the energy is high from start to finish.
Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival
This late-summer festival offers more than balloon launches, though those are the main draw. Concerts, amusement rides, and fireworks round out the experience.
The sight of dozens of colorful balloons floating at sunrise is worth the early wake-up. It’s a peaceful yet festive weekend getaway.
Festival des Traditions du Monde
Held in Sherbrooke, this August festival celebrates international cultures with food, music, and dance from around the globe. Each tent represents a different region, and the food options range from jerk chicken to Hungarian pastries.
It’s like a cultural passport without leaving the province.
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Montréal Fringe Festival
This one’s all about creative freedom. Performers apply through a lottery system, so the shows are random, diverse, and often strange in the best way.
From solo dramas to puppet comedy, it’s impossible to predict what you’ll see. Affordable tickets and laid-back venues make it easy to explore.
Festival de la Poutine
Set in Drummondville, this festival is unapologetically focused on one thing: Québec’s most famous dish. Chefs compete to make the best version, while local bands provide the soundtrack.
There’s even a poutine-eating contest if you’ve got the stomach for it. It’s casual, loud, and proudly cheesy.
MUTEK Montréal
This electronic music and digital art festival is designed for the senses. Installations, audio experiments, and genre-bending DJs create an experience that’s more immersive than your usual concert.
It’s a perfect match for anyone into tech, sound, and futuristic visuals.
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Le Festif!
Taking place in the small town of Baie-Saint-Paul, this July festival brings together big music and local charm. Stages are set up in fields, streets, and even on rooftops.
The mix of nature and live performance creates a setting that feels personal, even when the crowds are big.
Montréal Pride
One of the largest LGBTQ+ festivals in Canada, Montréal Pride includes parades, concerts, panel discussions, and community events. The vibe is open, joyful, and welcoming to all.
The energy peaks during the weekend parade, but the week leading up to it is just as full of life.
Festival des Couleurs
This fall event celebrates the changing leaves in places like Mont-Tremblant and Mont Sutton. Chairlifts take you up for views of golden forests, and local food stalls keep you well-fed.
It’s more peaceful than party-like, but still draws big crowds. Ideal for anyone who prefers crisp air and fall colors over loud music.
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More Than Just a Party Scene
Québec’s festivals are more than flashy events — they reflect the province’s deep mix of culture, creativity, and community pride. Whether you’re drawn to music, food, or a snow-covered parade, there’s something special in the way these gatherings bring people together. They aren’t just good photo opportunities — they’re moments worth traveling for.
So pack a scarf or sunglasses, depending on the season, and dive into the celebration.
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