10 Reasons to Check Out the Québec Winter Carnival in 2025

Bonhomme Carnaval is the king of the Carnival, and every king needs a castle. Bonhomme’s castle will again be imposing and majestic. Open February 7-16, the castle is different every year, and of course, you can visit it! New this year, during the last afternoon of the event, Carnival-goers are invited to create graffiti at the ice palace.

The SAQ Bistro will be everyone’s favourite spot to warm up. Hot tip: Bonhomme swings by there few times a day!

Every year, the night parades light up the eyes of children and adults alike. Bonhomme, the floats, and the 300+ local artists, as dancers, acrobats, artists, and musicians get people dancing in the streets! The parades will take place on February 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the Lower Town (3^e Avenue – Limoilou) and on February 15 at 7 p.m. in the Upper Town (Grande Allée).

Festivalgoers can book in advance to enjoy a special VIP experience with a reserved seat in the stands, a polar blanket, and drink service to help them stay nice and warm!

Teams of paddlers will brave the icy St. Lawrence River on February 9 for the great ice canoe race, sponsored by the Government of Québec. Get a front-row seat to the action with a VIP experience aboard the Québec-Lévis ferries and watch the winning team best their opponents as they paddle across the finish line.

Who can resist the beauty of a sculpture carved in ice or snow? Few dozens of these stunning works of art will be on display at the Scotiabank Sculpture Garden from February 7 to 16, as will Lumiglace, a sound and light show you won't want to miss. If you ever dreamed of creating your own ice sculpture, some workshops are available for you!

On February 9 and 10, 110 persons will have the chance to try abseiling on the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (LCF). This activity is offered with Aventurex & LCF. It’s a new activity that is for adventurous winter lovers.

The whole city comes alive for all of Carnival but gets especially groovy during the six nights of shows on the Loto-Québec stage. Join the crowd under the big dome for these special musical events on February 7, 8, 12, 13, 14 and 15.

During Carnival, come check out this all-new site where music tops the bill… after Bonhomme, of course! A Ferris wheel, live entertainment like karaoke, a demolition room, ice instruments, and more await you at Juke-box Kraft!

You're not dreaming, it’s really possible to play laser tag during the Carnival, February 10-13! Especially since it will take place at the Citadelle de Québec, the largest British fortress in North America. It’s still an active garrison today.

There are four ice bars where you can taste the best of Québec products, including a very special treat: the Carnival Hot Toddy. The SAQ Ice Bar with a DJ booth above, the Coureur des Bois Ice Bar, the Atypique Ice Bar and the Loto-Québec’s Ice Bar. Get your favourite drink in an ice glass for the complete experience.

The Sleepless night, an unusual and eccentric pajama party, is an opportunity for people over 18 to dance, play adult board and video games, listen to stories by the fire, do yoga and more!

Feeling the Carnival vibe? The Carnival Effigy, or pass, is only $25 + tax until January 12. On January 13, the price will increase to $39 + taxes. Check out the full program to find out what’s in store and book your stay accordingly.

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