A Trip to Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France

Imagine strolling through picturesque cobblestone streets, just to turn the corner and find actors dressed in fashions from 17th century giving demonstrations on games that were played during that period, or serving up glasses of refreshing local ice wine. What about dining al fresco on some poutine and French onion soup and seeing a militia reenactment marching past? That’s the kind of entertainment you’ll find at Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France!

Tomorrow is opening day for Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France, one of the biggest celebrations in Québec City. And it will also mark the 25th anniversary of this historic and festive event that highlights the 17th and 18th centuries in New France. I’ve been lucky enough to attend the festival several times over the years and each time it is so much fun! 

There is so much to see and experience at Les Fêtes that you really need to see it for yourself. So if I’ve convinced you to plan a visit to Québec City for Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France, here is what you need to know:

This Year’s Festival will run August 4 through August 7

Activities officially begin at 4 p.m. on August 4th, with closing time at 11 p.m. Events on August 5th, 6th and 7th start at 11 a.m. The festival will close at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 7th. 

Your Ticket in is also a Souvenir

You can purchase your tickets online or at official ticket booths at the entrance to event sites. This year the effigy to get into events is a Decoder-Medallion is in the shape of a Louis d’or, a gold coin that was one of the forms of currency used in New France. It’s only costs $15 for access to festival events (children 12 and under are free) and then you can use the effigy as a souvenir! I have a collection of effigies from the years that I’ve attended and will sometimes use them as a necklace or a bookmark. You can also upgrade to the Royal Package which you can find out more about on the festival’s website. 

Dressing up is not required, but Encouraged

Of course you can go and simply enjoy Les Fêtes as a tourist, but if you’re game, why not come in costume? I will guarantee that you will not be alone if you don a tri-corn hat, a bonnet, or dress up from head to toe in period garb. You can either bring your own (my sister always looks great in her gear) or visit one of the many boutiques around the city. 

Make sure you Come Hungry!

Meat-eaters and vegetarians will both find delicious fare from the New France era. Food kiosks will also be operating in the Town, where the merchants will offer you different types of sweet and savory tasting bites. I love getting the ice wine sampler (if they still have it, you must try it). 

If you want to learn more about Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France, you can check out their website and Instagram. You can also find out more about what to do in Québec City here!