Winter Carnival

The Winter Carnival, first held in 1894, is reason enough to brave the near-artic temperatures of January and February. During this time, the already picturesque city transforms under a blanket of white snow, punctuated by ice sculptures and festive holiday lights. Some of the most famous attractions are the parades, a masquerade ball at the Château Frontenac, free outdoor banquets, snow sculpture contests and an amusement park set up on the Plains of Abraham. No matter the temperature, the celebratory spirit—and joie-de-vivre—is felt by all.