400th anniversary of the city in 2008
The city celebrated its 400th anniversary officially on July 3. But the celebrations will take place throughout the year.
For more informations on the list and descriptions of the activities of this special year, see the "QUÉBEC 2008" official website here (English and French). One of the most popular activities is the stunning Moulin à Images / Image Mill, taking place every night from 10:00 to 10:40. A brilliant presentation of the story of the city since its beginning, projected onto 81 grain silos, 600 meters long. There are daily activities taking place in Lower Town, plus some very special shows like Paul McCartney (July 20) and Céline Dion (Aug 22), both presented on the Plaines d'Aabraham / Plains of Abraham (Battlefields Park) and Cirque du Soleil in October. All these shows are free.
Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France (The New France Festival) is the first full Wednesday thru Sunday in August. It is a cultural experience for all ages. To participate, you purchase a souvenir pass for 8$ CDN if bought within 10 days before its beginning, or 10$ CDN during the event, and it allows you into every venue. If you do not purchase one, you will feel guilty as you enjoy the parades and the themed drama events thought the old city. Citizens dress in incredible period clothes (which can be rented, if you dare) and enjoy their strolls through the traditional marketplaces while enjoying music and exhibits. Check out the website: Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle France ( English , Japanese versions available). This festival could be compared to a fantastic French version of Colonial Williamsburg, VA.
The Festival d'été de Québec (Summer Festival) has been taking place for over 30 years, beginning on the first Thursday of July and going on for 10 days. To access the Festival sites, one needs to buy a pin button, which comes with a series of color-coded bracelets, one for each festival day. The pin button costs $30 (bought on site from vendors, or at Couche-Tard convenience stores), and is sold on the street during the festival. It is possible to buy a 1-day pass for $15. The festival will take place from July 9 to 19, 2009. Over 400 shows, most of the activities are free and in the open air, happening in various locations in the Old Town. Blues, folk, world music, traditional music, rock 'n roll, with contributions of local artists but also from international artists and bands. Daily street animation from noon to 11PM. Note that the Festival is now (July 2008) over for this year, but if you click on the link and wait a bit, you could see and hear people's impressions (French and English) on the 2008 edition. The website is usually updated around Mid-May every year, and there is no doubt that 2009 will see even more spectacular activities included in the programming.
PleinArt is a yearly outdoor sale-exhibit, taking place every August. A nice opportunity to observe what fine local (from the city and province) craftsmen and women come up with. Jewelry, mohair clothes, leather articles, wooden toys, furniture, ceramics, etc. The big tent is erected next to the western side of the Parliament building. Parking available on the street and in the adjacent Édifice Marie-Guyart's underground parking. In 2008, the exhibit is taking place from July 30 to Aug 10.
The Carnaval d'hiver - (Québec's Winter Carnival) is a vibrant festival featuring parades, a grand ice palace that lights up at night, ice sculpture contests and a winter wonderland of games and activities (including a snow bath!) for the whole family held on the Plains of Abraham.
The Marathon des deux rives (Two Shores Marathon) is held in August, and growing in popularity every year. Runners particularly enjoy the scenic location of the marathon, the smooth and efficient organization, and the freshness provided by the proximity of the St-Laurent river.
