Wandering around a Quebec Christmas market after a snowfall is like walking through a living Hallmark movie. Snow clings to the 18th and 19th-century buildings, monuments, and trees. The German Christmas Market in Quebec City is the highlight of the holiday season.
Colourful holiday light displays twinkle in the background, and cafรฉs sell copious amounts of rich velvety chocolat chaud (hot chocolate). Beginning on November 23rd, the market features Quebec artisans and producers, traditional German treats, and live music. Hereโs a complete Holidays guide to help you plan your next visit to Quebec City!
Must-See Quebec City Christmas Market Events
The Christmas market is open every Thursday to Sunday from November 23rd to December 23rd 2023, with activities for all ages. Shopping and eating your way through the wooden kiosks (there are 90) is a lot of fun, but there are some fabulous activities and events, too!
Opening Ceremony
Head over to Place DโYouville for the official opening ceremony on November 23rd. There will be musicians playing, Krampus Fantastischer Wunderfunk, and the new toy cable car will be presented. Itโs 3 hours of fun and food.
Concerts at Holy Trinity Cathedral
This is the first Anglican church established outside of Britain, and a beautiful part of Old Quebecโs history and culture. The cathedral features an 8-bell tower and stunning stained-glass windows. Itโs free to visit, but paying for a guided tour introduces details hidden in plain sight.
During the holiday season, the cathedral radiates warmth and cheer as angelic sounds wrap around those sitting in its pews. Holiday concerts, often free to attend, are a must-see. This year, the Quebec Christmas Market concerts take place every Saturday and feature 50 violinists and cellists ages 5 to 17.
Meet Santa in Quebec City!
A Quebec City Christmas market is not complete until Santa has arrived. Every Saturday and Sunday of Marchรฉ de Noรซl Allemand de Quรฉbec, Santa will be lounging in his chair in Place DโArmes, awaiting children and adults alike.
Listen to Traditional Bavarian Music
If youโre going to a German Christmas market, listening to traditional Bavarian music is a must. Grab a beer or some mulled wine and get lost in the music, folklore, and camaraderie. Bavarian music performances will take place at Place DโYouville and Jardins de lโHรดtel de Ville.
Where Is the Old Quebec Christmas Market?
Marchรฉ de Noรซl Allemand de Quรฉbec began in a church basement in 2008 as a crowded afternoon event filled with holiday goodies. Fifteen years later, this Quebec City Christmas Market is spread across 5 locations and attracts people from all over the world!
The Bergdorf
The Desjardins Alpine Village is located in Place DโYouville, just outside Saint-Jean Gate. Itโs a magical location, with huts huddled around the Palais Montcalm skating rink, and the giant sparkling wreath hanging from Le Capitole across the street.
The Marktplatz
This year the marktplatz returns to Place de lโHรดtel de Ville, a small square across from Quebec City Hall and Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral. An iconic Christmas market location since 2011!
Jardins de lโHรดtel de Ville
This public space beside Quebec City Hall is a gathering place and a hub of activity throughout the year. During the Quebec City Xmas Market this square is home to the WinterBar and wood huts selling everything from soaps and lotions to mulled wine and Quebec terroir.
Rue Sainte-Anne
This pedestrian street running alongside Holy Trinity Cathedral is lined with restaurants and boutiques on one side, and Christmas market huts on the other. It can be a little crowded, but thatโs part of the fun!
Christmas Castle
Place d’Armes, just outside Quebec Cityโs castle-like hotel, Chรขteau Frontenac, is a magical place in winter. There are big trees, and the Monument of Faith fountain in the centre, and white sparkling lights. Itโs THE place to meet Santa!
Getting Around the Quebec City Christmas Market
Once youโre in Old Quebecโs Uppertown (Haute Ville), itโs fairly easy to get around on foot. If youโre in Lowertown (Basse Ville), a walk up Cรดte de la Montagne will take you to a couple Christmas market locations. Itโs a pretty steep hill though and can be slippery in winter so wear good boots.
Riding the Funiculaire Up to the Event
Riding the Funiculaire is a fun alternative, with a cost of 5 CAD per person. Alternatively, Bus 11 will take you all the way up to Jardins de lโHรดtel de Ville for only 3.75 CAD (correct change only).
Taking the Bus
Buses 800, 801, and 807 go to Place DโYouville. Perfect for going to The Bergdorf, then walking through the streets of Old Quebec to the other Christmas market locations.
Parking During the Quebec Christmas Market
Parking is sparse in Old Quebec, and can be tricky depending on the current snow situation. Street parking is available on rue DโAuteuil, and there are a few spots on rue Saint-Jean and Cรดte de la Fabrique.
Itโs trick to park in the old town in the summer so, in winter, parking garages are even more recommended. There is a large garage just off rue Dauphine, as well as a small one near Hรดtel de Ville.
There are parking lots and a garage in Old Port as well. Park and walk to Uppertown or hop on Bus 11.
Free Parking Lots during the Quebec City German Christmas Market
- Parc-O-Bus D’Estimauville is a short walk from Beauport bus terminal. Park and take bus 800 to Place DโYouville.
- Parc-O-Bus 41e rue/1รจre avenue – park and walk over to stop 5852 (across the street from McDonalds) and take bus 801 to Place DโYouville.
Youโve now got everything you need for your adventure at the Quebec Christmas Market, one of the most amazing in the province. Get ready for some old town charm and finger-licking good treats in a magical snowy atmosphere!
Here are some other articles about Quebec City to help plan:
- Where to Enjoy a Christmas Dinner in Quebec City
- The Perfect Romantic Getaway in Quebec City: Original Ideas for an Unforgettable Weekend
- Ice Hotel in Quebec City: My Frosty Experience
- Well-Kept Secrets: 5 Best Photo Spots in Quebec City
- Best Nordic Spas in Quebec City: Which to Visit?
- 2 Days in Quebec City Itinerary: a Perfect Weekend Getaway
- 7 Best Sushi in Quebec City
- How to Get from Montreal to Quebec City
How to Catch Some Cool Views of Quebec City?
Looking for an original activity during your trip to Quebec City?
– Scope out some amazing views thanks for a helicopter ride over the old town that’s bound to have you squealing with excitement!
– Hop aboard for a view of Old Quebec City from the water, a great way to catch the breeze in summer and change your perspective.
– Looking for a more sporty approach to visiting the old capital? Rent a fat bike and explore on your own the charms of the cobblestone streets.
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