Think winter is just for staying indoors? Think again! The Québec Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec) transforms the season into an unforgettable celebration of ice, snow, and festive fun. From spectacular ice sculptures and lively night parades to the daring snow bath and exhilarating ice canoe race, this festival proves that winter is anything but boring.
But let’s be honest—navigating a winter festival can be overwhelming. Where should you park without the hassle? Where can you warm up with a delicious meal or a toasty cocktail? That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve rounded up the best parking spots, top-rated restaurants, cozy bars, and must-do activities so you can focus on enjoying the magic of Carnival.
Bundle up, embrace the winter vibes, and let the adventure begin! Read on for everything you need to make this your best winter getaway yet.
JUMP TO:
Best Restaurants Near the Festival
Must-Do Activities at the Québec Winter Carnival
Final Tips for an Amazing Québec Winter Carnival
Best Parking Spots
Finding the right parking spot can make your festival experience much smoother. Here’s a list of the most convenient and affordable parking locations near the event venues to help you save time and avoid the hassle.
1220 Place George-V Ouest
1 minute walk to Place George-V
This 24/7 underground parking lot offers 304 spaces, providing a convenient option right next to the festivities. Payment at this location is available on-site only.
775 Avenue Honoré-Mercier
8-minute walk to Esplanade Park
A 24/7 underground parking lot with 210 spaces, ensuring easy access to the event without the hassle of finding street parking. Payment at this location is available on-site only.
1150 Rue de Claire-Fontaine
8-minute walk to Place George-V
This underground parking lot has 160 spaces and operates from 7 AM to 9 PM, making it a great choice for daytime visitors. Payment at this location is available on-site only.
685 Rue Sainte-Marguerite
15-minute walk to Esplanade Park
A spacious multi-story parking lot with 600 spaces, open 24/7, perfect for those looking for a guaranteed spot not too far from the event.
1191 Avenue Cartier
15-minute walk to Place George-V
An underground parking lot with 99 spaces, open from 6 AM to 11 PM, offering a convenient option for event-goers.
304 Boulevard Charest Est
25-minute walk to Esplanade Park
A small surface parking lot with 23 spaces, open 24/7, ideal for those wanting to escape the traffic upon arriving and leaving the festival.
Best Restaurants Near the Festival
Warm up with a delicious meal at some of Québec City’s top restaurants. Whether you’re craving classic poutine, French-inspired fine dining, or hearty comfort food, these spots offer the perfect way to refuel and embrace the local flavours.
SAQ Space
Bonhomme’s Ice Palace
Open till 11 PM
$$
This vibrant space features the SAQ Bistro with a heated area and the SAQ Ice Bar, where a DJ sets the mood for a festive night.
Le Continental
26 Rue Saint-Louis
Open till 10:30 PM
$$$
A refined French dining experience with classic flambé meals prepared tableside in an elegant setting.
Snack Bar Saint-Jean
780 Rue Saint-Jean
Open till 4 AM
$
A late-night favorite serving burgers, poutines, and sandwiches in a cozy, outdoor-inspired space with a patio.
Restaurant Beffroi Steakhouse
775 Boulevard Honoré-Mercier
Open till 9 PM
$$$
Located inside the Hotel Palace Royal, this upmarket steakhouse offers premium steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine cellar.
D’Orsay
65 Rue De Buade
Open till 10 PM
$$
A stylish pub and eatery featuring unique dining spaces and an eclectic European-influenced menu.
L’Entrecôte Saint-Jean
1080 Rue Saint-Jean
Open till 10 PM
$$
A relaxed Parisian-style bistro known for its fixed-price steak frites and an extensive wine selection.
Best Bars Near the Festival
After a day of winter festivities, unwind at one of Québec City’s best bars and pubs. From cozy cocktail lounges to lively hotspots serving the famous “Caribou” drink, these venues provide the perfect atmosphere to relax and soak in the carnival spirit.
Atypique Ice Bar
Jukebox Kraft
Open till 3 AM
$$
A lively bar offering both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options in a vibrant atmosphere.
Taverne Grande Allée
585 Grande Allée E
Open till 3 AM
$$
A cozy, low-key hangout with exposed-brick walls and patio seating, serving beer and cocktails.
London Jack
505 Rue Saint-Joseph E
Open till 12 AM
$$
A unique London-style pub featuring a massive beer fridge with over 300 varieties to choose from.
Pub Nelligan’s
789 Côte Sainte-Geneviève
Open till 3 AM
$
A classic Irish pub with patio seating, offering a wide selection of beer and whisky.
Pub Galway
1112 Av. Cartier
Open till 3 AM
$S
A Celtic-themed pub serving beer and hearty classics like burgers and Irish stew.
Pub St-Alexandre
1087 Rue Saint-Jean
Open till 12 AM
$$
A traditional English tavern with a great selection of beer, scotch, and live music events.
Must-Do Activities at the Québec Winter Carnival
Make the most of your visit with these unmissable experiences. Explore the iconic Ice Palace, cheer on competitors in the thrilling ice canoe races, and enjoy the electrifying night parades—all signature events that bring the Québec Winter Carnival to life.
The Night Parade – Limoilou
3rd Avenue
February 8 at 5:30 PM
An electrifying spectacle featuring nearly 300 artists, dancers, and musicians lighting up the night.
Bonhomme’s Ice Palace
Loto-Québec Zone
All Carnival long
Marvel at stunning ice sculptures inspired by nature and the far north in Bonhomme’s winter kingdom.
Government of Quebec Canoe Race
Quay 19-21
February 9
Watch fearless athletes battle icy waters as they race across the St. Lawrence River.
Silent Disco
Scotiabank Sculpture Garden
February 7-16
Dance under the stars with wireless headphones as DJs spin electrifying beats.
Philadelphia Ferris Wheel
Kraft Jukebox
Throughout the Carnival
Soar high above the city on the brand-new Jukebox Ferris wheel for breathtaking views.
St-Hubert Snow Bath
Tourny Fountain
February 16
Brave the cold in your best swimsuit and dive into this exhilarating winter tradition.
Final Tips for an Amazing Québec Winter Carnival
- Dress Warm – Layer up with a good coat, gloves, and insulated boots.
- Plan Ahead – Arrive early to secure parking and avoid the rush.
- Savour Local Flavours – Try poutine, sip Caribou, and enjoy Québécois comfort food.
- Join the Fun – Dance at the Silent Disco, cheer on canoe racers, and explore Bonhomme’s Ice Palace.
- Capture the Magic – Snap photos of ice sculptures, parades, and stunning city views.
Enjoy the winter wonderland that is the Québec Winter Carnival—where the cold is just an excuse to celebrate!
Make the most of it by planning ahead for parking—download the Indigo Neo app to find and book a spot hassle-free.
