June 15, 2026 | Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France are back… And they haven’t aged a day - well, almost!
Quebec City, June 15, 2026 — What if history, reimagined through modern artistic expression, became your favourite summer activity? From August 6 to 9, the streets of Old Quebec will forget they are living in 2026 as the Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France transform the city into a vibrant open-air stage where the past comes to life… and where the fun is anything but old-fashioned.
This year, festivalgoers can wander free of charge across three main sites, including an exciting newcomer: the Montmorency Park National Historic Site. There, visitors will be invited to immerse themselves in the rich cultures of First Nations through performances, demonstrations, and traditional games. At the Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, visitors of all ages will once again encounter the Festival’s iconic Giants, stroll along the artisan alley, enjoy the family area, and take part in a wide range of lively activities. Meanwhile, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville will come alive with period trades: blacksmiths, broom makers, and other skilled craftspeople will showcase traditional know-how. When the sun goes down, the site transforms into a festive, high-energy open-air gathering featuring traditional music, spirited entertainment, and innkeepers ready to “spark the powder”… metaphorically speaking, of course!
Because even a historical festival can embrace innovation, three brand-new activities are making their debut this year:
- Pioneers’ Tea ($ – Quebec Garrison Club): A delightful and festive morning experience held in the inner courtyard of the Quebec Garrison Club, where participants will discover the fascinating stories of pioneering women who helped build our society, including Marie de l’Incarnation, Marguerite Bourgeoys, and Jeanne Mance. Tea, pastries, and engaging activities are all part of the experience.
- Legendary Journey: Echo of the Past ($ – starting point at the Morrin Centre): An interactive adventure developed in collaboration with Promenades Fantômes, where clues and mysteries lead participants to encounters with legendary figures from Quebec folklore, including La Corriveau, the White Lady of Cap-Blanc, the Devil of the Saint-Maurice Forges, and more.
- Lantern Quest presented by Rythme 102.9 (medallion required – main sites): Set off in search of lanterns hidden throughout the three main sites for a chance to win exciting prizes.
“The Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France is a bit like history deciding to go out and celebrate… and everyone is invited! We step into the past with a very contemporary energy, celebrating Quebec City with heart, curiosity, and a true flair for festivities,” said Jérôme Déchêne, Executive Director of the Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France.
Here are some of our other signature activities:
- King’s Dinner presented by Firebarns ($ – Quebec Garrison Club): Calling all food lovers! Take your seat at the most sought-after historical dinner in town, set in the prestigious surroundings of the Quebec Garrison Club. The menu features a feast specially imagined by Chef Xavier—sure to make you forget all about royal etiquette (yes, we see you going back for seconds). Rumour has it the King himself may make an appearance, and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, courtesy of Vignoble Isle de Bacchus, will kick off the festivities in style. Cheers!
- Night of the Traitors ($ – Morrin Centre): Do you think you are trustworthy… or an excellent bluffer? Inspired by the famous Werewolves game, this New France–themed experience immerses participants in a world of intrigue, deception, and suspicion. Over two hours, under the guidance of a game master, fragile alliances and delicious betrayals will unfold. Trust no one… not even your closest friend. As a bonus, former contestants from the show The Traitors (French version) may make a surprise appearance.
- Giants’ Gathering: the show ($ - Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville): Discover the show I remember New France and watch 11 giants come to life before your very eyes as they share their stories and reveal the connections between them. 30-minute show with headphones. The show is offered in French and English.
- Escape Backpack ($ – Îlot des Palais): Put on your explorer’s hat (or your budding archaeologist cap) and set off in search of the mysterious treasure of the last Intendant. Equipped with a very special backpack, participants must solve riddles and mysteries throughout Old Quebec. Up to six participants can play simultaneously.
- Capture Your History Exhibition (free – three main sites and Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral): Take a walk through the past without leaving the present—smartphone in hand. This pop-up exhibition invites visitors to discover period objects, scenes of daily life, and forgotten traditions, with fascinating anecdotes and surprises at every stop.
“The Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France will bring Vieux-Québec to life and let people take a true journey back in time. This event proudly celebrates our history, our culture and the traditions that shape who we are,” said the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages. “We are proud to support this must-see event that brings people of all ages together to celebrate our living heritage!”
Wait, there’s more:
- Self-guided visits of the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral (Free - Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral): This majestic landmark opens its doors—and its secrets—to visitors. Experience a unique moment where heritage and emotion meet.
- Historical Talks presented by Gouvernement du Québec (Medallion required – Auberge internationale de Québec): Dive into the heart of our past, uncover hidden stories, and revisit long-held myths. Each talk offers an invitation to explore the foundations of our identity and connect history with the present.
- Revamped family zone (Free – Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville): A must-stop for young festivalgoers (and their parents!). From period games and scavenger hunts to face painting, creative workshops, and even a hobby-horse stable, there is something for everyone. Adults will also appreciate practical amenities for feeding, changing, and taking a well-deserved break before the next adventure.
“The Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France offers a unique journey into our history, right in the heart of Old Quebec, where a host of original activities awaits visitors of all ages,” says Amélie Dionne, Minister of Tourism. “The event shines an exceptional light on Quebec as a must-see tourist destination. I invite all locals and tourists to make the most of this celebration and discover everything the region has to offer.”
Want even more?
While access to the three main sites is free, the Medallion Case is perfect for those who want to make the most of the festivities. Benefits include a free Coaticook ice cream, one access to the Giants Gathering : the show, entry to all historical talks presented by the Gouvernement du Québec, a $15 discount on the Escape Backpack, three entries in the Lantern Quest presented by Rythme 102.9, access to the historical costume photo booth, and exclusive discounts from participating partners. Because great value never goes out of style.
"The people of Québec City take great pride in our history and heritage. They are also the primary reason we welcome so many visitors each year. For nearly 30 years, the Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France have provided the perfect opportunity to rediscover the stories, traditions, and well- and lesser-known figures that have shaped our city's unique character in North America," said Éric Courtemanche Baril, a member of the Québec City Executive Committee responsible for major events.
Here’s a quick summary:
- Dates: August 6 to 9, 2026
- Locations: Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, Montmorency Park National Historic Site, Quebec Garrison Club, Morrin Centre, Auberge internationale de Québec, Îlot des Palais, and Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
- Tickets: While the three main sites are free, some activities require tickets—after all, not everything was free in the 17th century! Full details are available online.
- Getting there: On foot (as people did back then!), by public transit (Réseau de transport de la Capitale or Société des traversiers du Québec), by bike (free bike parking available thanks to Le Vélo Vert), or by carpool with Allons covoiturage. If travelling by car, parking at Place d’Youville is recommended.
“Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France reflects what makes the Québec City region so distinctive: a living heritage, a rich history, and a Francophone culture that is unique in North America. This event serves as a powerful tourism draw, attracting visitors from near and far while strengthening the Québec City region’s position as a leading cultural destination in North America.” said Samantha McKinley, director of Destination Québec cité
Because without them, history would be far less fun to tell—thank you to our partners:
Molson Coors, Tourisme Wendake, Coaticook, Église catholique de Québec, Bouchard + Avocats inc., Firebarns, Vignoble Isle de Bacchus, Îlot des Palais / Société du patrimoine urbain de Québec, Méga Parc, Roméo’s Gin, Basilique-cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec, Alex Coulombe ltée, Alimentation Mon Quartier, Floralies Jouvence, KWE! À la rencontre des peuples autochtones, Onedot, Parcs Canada, Société des traversiers du Québec, Tente Ashini and Le Vélo Vert. We also extend our sincere thanks to our public partners, Ville de Québec, Destination Québec cité, gouvernement du Québec and Government of Canada, as well as our media partners, TVA, Le Journal de Québec, FM93 and Rythme 102.9. Finally, thank you to our accommodation partners, Le Concorde Québec and Les résidences de l’Université Laval.
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Media Inquiries Source
Julie Moffet Amélie Paquet
Press officer Communications manager
Cell: 418 580-8421 Cell: 581 748-8260
julie@juliemoffetcommunication.com amelie.paquet@carnaval.qc.ca
