Going to a festival or outdoor event with the little ones? Why not! Children are always welcome at these big events and many even reserve a stage or a suitable space for them.
Summer is made for getting out of the routine, going to bed (a little) later and dancing barefoot on the grass! Generally speaking, children enjoy outdoor shows and activities. Outside, they have more freedom and are on the lookout for new sensations.
Here are seven to introduce to our little ones, near Quebec and the surrounding area.
Festive
Headlining our little in-house list is the Festivent de Lévis , which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. It is a favorite of many families (including ours!). It must be said that the Festivent is specially designed for families, with rides, inflatables and entertainment for all ages. Not to mention the family stage that will feature Arthur L'Aventurier, Ari Cui Cui and mascot day.
We like : enjoying the afternoon having fun on the rides and inflatable games, then marveling and relaxing at the hot air balloon flights. It was also at Festivent that we introduced the children to crowd bathing during the public shows. Access is easy and safe.
From August 2 to 6 in Lévis
Quebec Summer Festival
A summer must-see in Quebec City, the FEQ is not just for adults. Children can also participate, and it's even free since those 10 and under don't need a bracelet (except for certain evenings).
For the experience to be positive, it is recommended to carefully evaluate the evening before deciding whether or not to take the little ones. For greater comfort, families who wish to enter the Plains of Abraham site with a stroller are invited to use the asphalt area at the top of the hill, near the Citadel.
We like: Saturdays and Sundays are family celebrations with entertainment, shows and snacks thanks to the Youth Series presented by Le lait. It's never too early to become a music lover!
From July 6 to 16, in Quebec
Wendake International Pow Wow
Children are enchanted by traditional dances and songs during the Wendake International Pow Wow . It is an opportunity to give them a unique cultural experience, with its rites and traditions.
We like: In addition to the dance and drum competitions, you can participate in different workshops. Little ones won't hesitate to let themselves go!
From June 30 to July 2 in Wendake
The Saint-Émile Family Festival
Throughout the summer, it's party time in the neighbourhoods of Quebec City, which offer various festivals with a local flavour. Among them, the Fêtes de la famille de Saint-Émile have been organised for nearly 30 years. During the day, the activities are mainly aimed at young people, with inflatable games, entertainment and various workshops. While in the evening, the shows are free.
We like: a neighborhood-wide festival that is organized thanks to the participation of local organizations and merchants. Nostalgics will appreciate the 1980s evening and the shows by Yelo Molo, The Lost Fingers and the tribute to Bob Bissonnette.
From July 21 to 23 at Émile-Cloutier Park, in Quebec City
The cozy Maizerets
Here is a new event that quickly caught our attention and that of the spectators who attended the first concert on June 4. The Maizerets Douillets are four morning garden concert events that take place in the Domaine Maizerets park on the first Sundays of the month.
The Maizerets Douillets are offered outside for the pleasure of visitors to the park, families, young and old, in a rustic, relaxed and simple atmosphere.
We like: In addition to the musical performances, there is family entertainment and the Kogi Café. We bring our chairs and our blanket! And it's free.
July 2, August 6 and September 3 at Domaine Maizerets
Portneuf Agricultural Exhibition
It is also the 40th anniversary of the Portneuf Agricultural Exhibition . This large family celebration allows children to have direct contact with a wide variety of animals, in addition to learning more about the agricultural sector. Shows, inflatable playground, small farm, educational activities, local products, exhibitors, merchants and artisans are part of the program.
We like : Access to the site is free (the purchase of a bracelet is required to participate in the activities at the family square).
From August 11 to 13 in Saint-Marc-des-Carrières
The Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier Rodeo
Put on your cowboy boots and hat for the rodeo !
This great equestrian festival is a must-see event for thrill seekers. Rodeo, gymkhana, carriage derby, country shows and family entertainment are all on the agenda!
We like : During a weekend, we immerse ourselves in a western atmosphere, which pleases young and old alike.
From June 30 to July 2 in Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier
Photo credit: Jonathan Roy photographer
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Our essentials for minis
A large outdoor blanket
We love large outdoor blankets that roll out on the lawn and are easy to carry. Some are waterproof, others are thicker, so kids can sit on them for a picnic or a nap.
Protect yourself from the sun
There is no question of going to an outdoor festival without sun protection. Cap, hat , sunglasses , sunscreen, etc.: we think about what is best suited to protect children from UV rays depending on the activity.
A really practical trolley
At some festivals it is possible to bring a trolley (check beforehand). This Cruiser trolley from Veer combines the functionality of a stroller with the space and robustness of a trolley. It can accommodate two small children or babies and even serve as a luggage rack.
A rain cape
Summer in Quebec is full of surprises and sudden downpours! When umbrellas are not allowed,a rain cape is the most practical option. Like a superhero cape, this one has the power to make you dance in the rain!
Ear protectors
Even outdoors, the sound of shows and concerts is often very loud for children's ears. These earmuffs from Baby Banz not only look great, but they are also rated as category 4 for noise protection. Plus: they are comfortable and lightweight.
Cover photo credit: Festivent de Lévis
