Quebec Winter Carnival: a snowman, an ice palace and a very cold week

The first Quebec Winter Carnival was held in 1894, with an ice palace, parades and a canoe race on the frozen St Lawrence River. After a long gap it was revived in the 1950s and has run annually since, with a snowman mascot called Bonhomme Carnaval who appeared in 1955. The festival is now one of the largest winter festivals in the Western Hemisphere.

The 2026 edition is generally reported for 6 to 15 February, spanning two weekends, though one source gives a late-January start; confirm with the organiser. Typical events include parades, snow sculptures, ice-canoe races, outdoor concerts and games on the Plains of Abraham, the historic park beside the old city. Bonhomme's Ice Palace is the centrepiece, and visitors can meet the mascot there.

Dress for serious cold. Quebec City in February is often well below freezing. Layers, insulated boots, a windproof outer layer and warm hands matter more than anything else. Many events are outdoors and run in the evening, so plan breaks in warm cafes. A hot drink is traditional; ask about the local seasonal sweet, maple taffy poured on snow.

The old city, Old Quebec, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is walkable in winter, though paths can be icy. Pair the carnival with a few quieter hours in the Château Frontenac area and the lower town's narrow streets.

Entry rules to Canada depend on your passport: visa-exempt air travellers usually need an electronic travel authorisation, and others need a visa. Check the Government of Canada's official pages.