February is the month of love, and Quebec City is one of the most romantic cities to visit with your loved one. Indeed, this place is known for its gourmet cuisine, cobblestone streets, and fantastic landscapes. Since Quebec can be very cold during wintertime, is it worth planning a getaway during this period? Let me give you a few ideas of things to do in Quebec City in February so that you can plan your next trip easily.
Why Visit Quebec City in February?
Why would it be a good time to visit Quebec City in February? Even if it might be cold outside, it is the place to celebrate wintertime. Indeed, there are plenty of things to do in February, especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. It is also the time of the winter carnival.
In addition, as mentioned above, Quebec City is one of the most romantic cities in North America. If you are looking for something special to celebrate Valentine’s Day, this Nordic city could have everything you need to have a pleasant getaway with your spouse.
5 Activity Ideas in Quebec City in February
Are you interested in exploring the province’s capital during this month? Since there are many things to do in Quebec City in February, here is a small list of the most important and enjoyable activities and events.
Enjoy the Quebec City Winter Carnival
Let me start with the most important event in Quebec City in February: the Carnaval de Québec, one of the most famous winter carnivals in the world. Under the supervision of Bonhomme, the official mascot, there are night parades, ice sculptures, ice canoes, snow baths, and much more!
The 2025 carnival will take place from February 7th to 16th. To learn about the event, check our Quebec Winter Carnival guide.
Visit the Hotel de Glace
In the same vein, the Hotel de Glace is one of the other things that make Quebec City unique during wintertime. Located directly on the Village Vacances Valcartier site, this ice hotel has a bar, a chapel, spas, and many rooms. Do you want to learn more about this beautiful and original place? Read Jennifer’s frosty experience. The second month of the year is also one of the best times to explore the Hotel de Glace because of the weather.
If you cannot afford to book a night at the Hotel de Glace, you can always visit it.
Cheer for Your Favourite Team at the PeeWee Hockey Tournament
You likely already know that we Quebecers like hockey, but did you know this town hosts one of the most important peewee tournaments? Indeed, every year, dozens of teams from around the world come to Quebec City in February to compete. Since it’s affordable, it could be a great family activity and a way to uncover more about the locals’ favourite sport.
The Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament is something to consider if you are already in the area because of the winter carnival.
Go Ice Skating on the Saint-Charles River
Since February is one of the coldest months of the year, ice skating on some rivers is possible. In Quebec City, many locals enjoy ice skating on the Plains of Abraham, but it can become quickly overcrowded. Let me suggest an alternative: consider the Saint-Charles River.
At the Parc de la Pointe-aux-Lièvres, you can access a 1.5-kilometer trail (0.9 miles) made especially for ice skating. Just remember to bring your warmest clothes!
Enjoy a Poutine During the Poutine Week
Another notable event in Quebec City in February is the Poutine Week. During this period, many restaurants throughout the city offer unique poutines at affordable prices—some vegan, some with kimchi, steak, and much more!
It is a great way to try many poutines and discover new local places. If you want suggestions, check out our article about the Best Poutines in Quebec City. Poutine is considered comfort food, especially when it is cold outside, like in February.
What to Know Before You Go to Quebec City in February
Is there anything essential to know before going to Quebec City in February? Here are some tips to ensure that your stay remains enjoyable:
- Quebec City can be very chilly and humid, especially at this time of year. Therefore, remember to bring your warmest clothes. We’ve prepared some packing suggestions for you here.
- It’s not because it’s frosty outside that there’s nothing to do. Indeed, many outdoor activities are available in February: ice skating, sliding, cross-country skiing, fat biking, and dog sledding. You can even take a speed skating class!
- The winter carnival and peewee tournament are some of the most popular times of the year to visit Quebec City. Remember to book your accommodation as soon as possible.
What to Do in Quebec City region and How to Organize Your Trip
Curious about how to spend your day in the Quebec City region? Here’s a list of the top activities to consider adding to your plans:
- Admire Quebec City’s largest waterfall and take a cable car to the top of the Montmorency Falls.
- Experience a unique walking adventure in the heart of Old Quebec and learn about its history.
- Discover the food, beverages, and vineyards of Île d’Orléans.
- Explore the wilderness near Quebec City with a hike in the Jacques-Cartier National Park.
- Introduce yourself to speed skating in Quebec City with top athletes on an inside ice ring.
- Ziplining above the Sainte-Anne canyon near Quebec City.
- Sleep comfortably at the Fairmont Château Frontenac and enjoy an incredible view of the St. Lawrence River.
- Enjoy a peaceful room at the Hilton Quebec and take a dip in the only year-round heated outdoor pool in Quebec City.
Preparing For Your Trip
When I look for things to do in my destination, I always have a look at Viator, GetYourGuide, Manawa, Civitatis and sometimes even Expedia.
It’s first off a great way to find out what there is to do, but always a quick and easy method to book cheaply and efficiently with these renowned platforms.
Need a place to sleep? I find most of my accommodations on Booking.com but I also use Hotels.com for their rewards program (11th free night) as well as Expedia. When booking smaller places in Quebec, you might not find them here and need to contact them directly.
Looking for a cheap flight to the Outaouais through Montreal? Have a look on Cheapoair or Skyscanner I use regularly.
Once you’re there, rent a car to roam free with DiscoverCars, AutoEurope or RentalCars or hop on a bus around Gatineau, Montreal, Quebec, and surrounding cities with Busbud.
In conclusion, a lot is going on in Quebec City at this time of year, so don’t hesitate! From the Carnaval de Québec to the peewee hockey tournament, hundreds of tourists roam the old city and enjoy its many activities. Do not forget to wear warm clothes and eat at least one poutine during your stay!
Do you need some help deciding what to bring? Check out our packing list for Quebec in winter.
Are you looking for other important information about visiting Quebec City? These articles might interest you:
- Winter Activities in Quebec City
- Best Things to Do in Quebec City in December
- Dog Sledding in Quebec City and Beyond
Do you want some suggestions about the beautiful province of Quebec? Take a look at our other pins!
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