400th anniversary of the city in 2008

 The city will celebrate its 400th anniversary officially on July 3. But the celebrations will take place throughout the year, with the official opening taking place on Dec 21, 2007. At 11PM, over 400 artists will perform the opening show outdoors, whatever the weather. The Palais Montcalm  venue, at Carré d'Youville (Upper Town, near St Jean Gate) will be the center of the opening show: a 200-ft stage set right at its foot will welcome most of the artists, while there will be classical musicians playing from the inside, and artists playing from the TOP of the building, and from the top of St Jean Gate and Wall as well. The show will be followed by fireworks.

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).

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 6$ CDN if bought within 10 days before its beginning, or 8$ 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. It will take place from July 3 to 13, 2008. 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. Note that the Festival is now (Aug 2007) 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 2007's edition. The website is usually updated around Mid-May every year, and there is no doubt that 2008 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 Édifice Marie-Guyart underground parking.

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.