With its many outdoor activities and its Christmas story-like atmosphere, Quebec City is the destination of many families during the holidays. How to entertain the children? Here are ten activities to put on your agenda.
Marvel at circus performances
The Petit Champlain and Place-Royale neighborhoods are always magical at this time of year. We bundle up the kids and take the time to marvel at the performances of the Flip Fabrique troupe and choirs.
Look up! The Brrrr! Circus Show was designed outdoors, for families who stroll the streets of the area, entertaining young and old with tightrope walking, trampoline and juggling acts. It's free.
Greet the fish of the Aquarium du Québec
There is so much to do and discover at the Aquarium du Québec! For the holidays, the Aquarium's fish have put on their finest clothes as they are featured during special holiday guided tours. Children will also have the opportunity to participate in eco-friendly gift-making workshops and an animal rally to outwit the elves' tricks.
Photo credit: André Ouellet, Sépaq
Attend the Kaleidoscopes animations
From December 27 to 31, the Kaleidoscopes festival will once again be held in Old Quebec, on the site of the German Christmas Market. Take a seat on the outdoor platforms of the Hôtel-de-ville gardens to attend some fifteen free shows, music, puppets or poetry, with a hot chocolate in your hands.
Take a trip to the Toboggan festival
Once again this year, the Toboggan festival is coming to the Grande Allée. Starting at 5 p.m., from December 28 to 31, the winter village will welcome passers-by with fires, heated tents, background music, relaxation areas, free shows and DJs.
Although the festival is mainly aimed at older children, families are welcome.
Photo credit: André-Olivier Lyra
Slide in Valcartier
Fasten your hat and hit the snow tubing at Village Vacances Valcartier ! The outdoor snow tubing season begins on December 26. Or would you prefer to experience the tropical atmosphere at the Bora Parc indoor water park? You can also combine the two by sleeping on site. During the holidays, several activities are offered to visitors staying at Hôtel Valcartier.
It will also be possible to visit the Ice Hotel, which should be accessible to visitors at this time.
Skiing… indoors!
The weather is gloomy? What if we went skiing… indoors? The Préski indoor ski center is the perfect place to get acquainted with alpine skiing and learn gently or to perfect your techniques, without even freezing your feet! The activity is accessible from 6 years old.
Raising awareness at the museum
Everyone to the museum! The Museum of Civilization offers a fun program of family activities from December 26 to 31 and from January 2 to 7.
Inspired by the exhibition For Tomorrow (an exhibition that my teenagers really loved!), the activities offered combine entertainment and environmental awareness.
Psst! Toddlers will love visiting (or revisiting) the My House exhibit, which is designed for little hands.
Stretching your legs on the Plains of Abraham
No need to leave the city to enjoy winter sports! For a quick outing or to meet up with grandparents, head to the Plains of Abraham to go skating, sliding or cross-country skiing. There is even a treasure hunt for 6 to 12 year olds.
Discover a luminous trail in the forest
Discovering the rich history of the Huron-Wendat nation, the Onhwa' Lumina tour is the only immersive multimedia experience of its kind to be open in winter in Quebec.
Usually offered in the late evening, the enchanted night tour will offer departures at 4:20 p.m. and 4:40 p.m. for young families on December 24, 25, 31 and January 1. It's perfect for giving the youngest ones the experience (and it's free for children 5 and under).
Looking for elves
Have you spotted them? The elves are back in the Trait-Carré in Charlesbourg and they are even accompanied by the Christmas of the P'tits Biscuits . We walk the decorated streets in search of the elves, in addition to following the P'tits Biscuits rally. Presented until January 7.
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Son lost a mitten and little girl has cold feet? You'll find a host of stylish winter accessories in Charlotte and Charlie's clothing department . And why not take advantage of it to go on a family shopping spree!
Happy Holidays!
