What to Do in Québec City in February

The Québec Winter Carnival has been the symbol of Québec winters since 1955, drawing thousands of visitors from all over the world to celebrate the joys of this special season. For its 71^st edition, the festival will be celebrated in style with the classic Winter Carnival line-up of parades, ice sculptures, Bonhomme’s Palace, the ice canoe race, and more.

A free shuttle will provide access to the various activities throughout the event.

Hockey fever takes over the city when thousands of young players realize their dream by coming to defend their team's colours at the International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament. By attending one of the games presented at the Videotron Centre, you may witness the performances of future National Hockey League champions, who knows!

The Old Port is more festive than ever! Explore its lively sites and take part in a variety of winter activities for the whole family.

• Port of Québec Village Nordik: Try your hand at ice fishing while enjoying a site with a breathtaking view of Québec City. Activities include ice fishing, an urban walking trail, family zones, and musical ambiance. February 7 to March 9.
• Gougoune et doudoune: This new event, presented by the Québec Winter Carnival, offers unique activities such as climbing a giant bear-shaped structure, a track with electric three skis, tubing, a giant ball pit, and much more! February 1-2 and February 7-16.
• Discoglace: In a dazzling setting, DJs and performers bring life to the first-ever ice disco, a refrigerated skating rink with a festive vibe. Discover it for free at the Agora of the Port of Québec, every day in February.

The winter magic continues to illuminate Old Québec as part of the Québec s'illumine event. A total of 75,000 lights and 1,000 lanterns have been hung throughout the area—on trees, staircases, lampposts, and more. Together, they create a 1.2 km-long winter light display stretching from Saint-Jean Street to Sault-au-Matelot Street.

In February, the lights turn red, white and blue during the Québec Winter Carnival (like the arrowhead sash worn by Bonhomme!).

The cold and the snow can be a great reason to stay indoors. Treat yourself to delicious comfort food at some of the city’s best restaurants.

Nothing better to end a winter day than a visit to a Nordic spa. Alternating between cold and heat makes you feel extremely relaxed after a busy day. Stroll in a hammock, eat in a dressing gown, relax in a hot open-air bath... Treat yourself to a relaxing break in one of the Nordic spas in town or in the surrounding area.

Skiers and snowboarders can take their pick of four different hills less than an hour from the city centre. See our 5 reasons to go skiing in the Québec City Area.