Every February, Quebec City’s walled Old Town turns into a snow-and-ice festival with an ice palace, night parades and an ice canoe race. Here is what to know before you book your 2027 trip.
Quick Answer
- Dates: 5 to 14 February 2027
- Where: Old Québec, Quebec City
- Highlights: Ice palace, night parades, ice sculptures, ice canoe race
- Mascot: Bonhomme Carnaval
- Getting there: Bus routes 800 and 801
What Is the Quebec Winter Carnival?
The Carnaval de Québec is a winter festival in Quebec City, set in Old Québec inside the city walls. The 2027 edition runs from 5 to 14 February 2027, according to Bonjour Québec, the province’s official tourism listing. Its mascot is Bonhomme Carnaval.
What Is There to Do at the Carnival?
- Ice palace: a main attraction of the festival.
- Night parades: evening parades are part of the programme.
- Ice and snow sculptures: displayed across the festival grounds.
- Ice canoe race: a winter take on river racing.
- Other activities: ice skating, winter sliding, illumination, karting and a laser game are also listed.
Château Frontenac looming over the lower town of Old Québec
How Do You Plan a Trip to the Carnival?
- Lock in the dates. 5 to 14 February 2027, spanning two weekends.
- Check admission. Bonjour Québec does not list prices; full rates are on the festival’s own site, carnaval.qc.ca.
- Stay in or near Old Québec so the festival is a walk away.
- Use the bus. Routes 800 and 801 serve the festival area.
- Pack for deep winter and plan warm-up breaks; the site has a heated shelter, washrooms, a bar and food services.
Plan Your Quebec City Winter Trip
Sort your transfers, connectivity and attractions ahead of time.
What Are the Key Facts at a Glance?
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Dates | 5 to 14 February 2027 |
| Location | Old Québec, inside the city walls |
| Signature attractions | Ice palace, night parades, ice and snow sculptures, ice canoe race |
| Getting there | Bus routes 800 and 801 |
| Accessibility | Listed as partially accessible; heated shelter on site |
| Pricing | Not listed by Bonjour Québec; see carnaval.qc.ca |
Planning More Winter Travel?
Frequently Asked Questions About the Carnival
When is the Quebec Winter Carnival 2027?
The 2027 Carnaval de Québec runs from 5 to 14 February 2027, according to Bonjour Québec.
Where does the Carnival take place?
In Old Québec, the district inside Quebec City’s walls.
What are the main attractions?
An ice palace, night parades, ice and snow sculptures and an ice canoe race, plus skating and winter sliding.
How much does the Carnival cost?
Bonjour Québec does not state admission prices. Check the festival’s official site, carnaval.qc.ca, for current rates.
Final Thoughts
The Quebec Winter Carnival is a compact, walkable winter trip built around Old Québec. Confirm admission details on the official site, dress for the cold and book early for the 5 to 14 February 2027 window.
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