Quebec City Winter Carnival 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Quebec City Winter Carnival is a legendary festival for winter's ultimate celebration of joy and light. You can experience ice palaces, night parades, and the spirit of French Canada.

This is our guide, a detailed guide to the Quebec City Winter Carnival 2026. Discover unmissable events and master the art of winter travel. Get ready to embrace the cold and celebrate with Bonhomme Carnaval himself.

What is the Quebec City Winter Carnival?

The Quebec City Winter Carnival is one of the world's largest winter festivals. It originated in the late 19th century to unite residents during the long, cold season. Today, it is a major showcase of winter culture, outdoor fun, and vibrant community spirit. The event's beloved ambassador is Bonhomme, a joyful snowman in a red tuque and traditional ceinture fléchée sash.

The 2026 festival will transform Quebec City into a winter wonderland from February 6 to 15, 2026. Events are spread across multiple iconic sites in and around Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can expect ice sculptures, thrilling night parades, winter sports, and live performances. It is a magnificent celebration of French-Canadian heritage and resilience.

Source: The Carnaval de Québec website.

Quebec City Winter Carnival 2026 Dates & Schedule

Mark your calendars: the official Quebec City Winter Carnival 2026 dates are February 6 to 15, 2026. The festival will run for ten vibrant days, spanning two full weekends. This schedule provides ample time to experience the wide array of events and attractions. The carnival typically kicks off with an opening ceremony featuring Bonhomme Carnaval.

A detailed hour-by-hour schedule will be released on the official website and mobile app closer to the event. Key activities and parades are often repeated to allow flexibility for visitors.

February 6: The festivities begin in the late afternoon. It’s time for music, lights, and the first activities at the main sites. Sites in the upper town are open from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Note that Gougoune et doudoune is open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m..

February 7: Enjoy artistic discoveries, shows, and festive activities from morning till night. The first Night Parade will take place on 3rd Avenue in Limoilou starting at 5:30 p.m..

February 8: It’s the athletes’ day. Watch the legendary Gouvernement du Québec Canoe Race, dance during the Country Dance at the Voltigeurs de Québec Armoury, and cheer on the bold participants of the St-Hubert Snow Bath!

February 9: Explore Carnival on your own this day. If you are among the first 1,000 people to arrive at the Loto-Québec Zone, you get reusable HotPoc hand warmers, providing up to 30 minutes of eco-friendly heat.

February 14: Grand finale parade (7:00 p.m.) along Grande Allée.

Top Events & Attractions at Quebec Winter Carnival 2026

The Carnival is famed for its signature events that blend tradition, art, and thrilling winter fun. These core attractions are the festival's centerpieces and are ready to make an appearance in 2026.

Bonhomme's Ice Palace

Bonhomme's Ice Palace is the iconic heart of the Carnival. This majestic structure is built entirely from ice blocks in the Loto-Québec Zone. For 2026, it will feature themed rooms inspired by Quebec legends. A special "Living Together" story created with local students will add a unique narrative layer to the exploration.

The palace is a must-visit for families and culture lovers. Visitors can explore different sculptural ice settings and take stunning photographs. Meeting the festival's mascot, Bonhomme Carnaval, in and around his glittering home is a quintessential experience. Access requires the official Carnival Effigy pass, which should be purchased in advance.

Night Parades

The illuminated Night Parades are a breathtaking Carnival tradition. Two spectacular processions light up the city: one in Lower Town and another on Grande Allée. Each features colorful floats, over 300 performers, dancers, and music, with Bonhomme leading as the grand marshal. The dazzling lights against the snowy night create an unforgettable festive energy.

This spectacle is perfect for all ages, offering a vibrant social atmosphere. For the best experience, arrive early to secure a good vantage point along the route. Consider the VIP seating option for added comfort, which includes blankets and hot drinks to stay warm during the captivating show.

Ice Canoe Race

The Ice Canoe Race is a thrilling, uniquely Quebecois event. Teams compete across the icy, churning waters of the St. Lawrence River, navigating floating ice blocks. This extreme sport celebrates a historic tradition and draws enthusiastic crowds to the port. It is a powerful display of strength, strategy, and endurance against the elements.

Spectator access along Port Quays 19 and 21 is free and offers up-close viewing. For ultimate comfort and a festive atmosphere, a VIP experience aboard ferries provides heated areas and onboard viewing. Attendees should dress in their warmest layers and arrive early to secure the best spot for this incredible winter spectacle.

Snow and Ice Sculptures

Quebec City becomes an open-air gallery during the Carnival. Talented international artists transform massive blocks of snow and ice into magnificent sculptures. These artworks, often part of a formal competition, display cultural and whimsical themes. Dozens of sculptures are displayed across parks and main festival sites, some featuring interactive sound and light components.

This attraction is ideal for art lovers, photographers, and families enjoying a stroll. The sculptures offer fantastic photo opportunities both day and night. To enhance your visit, check the schedule for live carving sessions where you can watch artists at work and even participate in voting.

The Snow Bath

The Snow Bath is a playful and bold Carnival tradition. Adventurous participants, wearing only swimsuits, roll and play in fresh snow under Bonhomme's watch. It's a classic challenge that encourages playful resilience against the winter cold. This unique event creates unforgettable photo moments and stories for adventurous adults and teens.

After taking the plunge, participants can warm up immediately with local hot beverages. A great next stop is the nearby SAQ Ice Bars to continue the festive atmosphere. It's a truly once-in-a-lifetime way to engage with the Carnival's spirited embrace of winter.

Travel Tips for Quebec City in Winter

Attending the carnival requires smart preparation for the festive atmosphere and Arctic conditions. These tips will ensure you stay warm, navigate easily, and make the most of your visit.

• Book Your Hotel Early: Accommodations in Old Quebec sell out months in advance. Secure your stay as soon as possible to get the best locations and rates near the main event sites.

• Master the Art of Layering: Dress for extreme cold with a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm insulating middle layer, and a windproof, waterproof outer shell. Insulated, waterproof boots with good traction are essential.

• Purchase Your Effigy Pass: The official carnival "effigy" (a collectible pin) is your entry pass to most sites and activities. Buy it online in advance to skip lines and access exclusive zones.

• Use Public Transit: Driving and parking in the festival areas is challenging. Use the efficient RTC bus network or consider purchasing a multi-day transit pass for easy travel around the city.

• Pack Winter Accessories: Do not forget critical items like thermal socks, a warm hat (tuque), insulated mittens (better than gloves), a scarf, and disposable hand warmers for an extended time outdoors.

• Plan Your Evening Parades: For the night parades, arrive at least an hour early to claim a good spot. Consider VIP seating tickets for a guaranteed, comfortable view with blankets and hot drinks.

FAQs

Is the Quebec Winter Carnival worth it?

Yes, it is a world-class, unique celebration of winter culture and community spirit that offers an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Do you need tickets for the Quebec Winter Carnival?

You do not buy a traditional ticket. Access requires purchasing the official Effigy pass, a collectible pin worn throughout the festival.

Is the carnival free entry?

Many outdoor spectacles, like the parades, are free to watch from public streets. However, entry to the main festival sites and attractions requires the purchased Effigy.

How to dress for the Quebec Winter Carnival?

Dress for Arctic exploration. Wear insulated waterproof boots, thermal layers, a heavy winter coat, a hat, mittens, and a scarf to cover all exposed skin.

Conclusion

The Quebec City Winter Carnival 2026 is an invitation to rediscover the joy of winter. It's where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary celebration. By planning, you secure your spot in this legendary festival. Come for the ice palace, stay for the parades, and leave with your heart full of warmth. You can enjoy the cold and celebrate with Bonhomme.