Each August, Québec City hosts the Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France (New France Festival), a historical event dedicated to the period of New France in the 17th and 18th centuries. Scheduled for August 6–9, 2026, the festival presents programming focused on the colony’s history, daily life, and cultural traditions. While the event traditionally takes place in the Lower Town districts of Petit-Champlain and Place-Royale, organizers have announced that in 2026 most festivities will occur in the Upper Town, near the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
The festival was first established in 1997 and has become an annual summer event highlighting Québec’s French colonial heritage. Activities are designed to reflect aspects of life under French rule prior to 1763, when France ceded the territory to Great Britain. Programming typically includes historical reenactments, musical performances inspired by the period, educational demonstrations, and themed installations throughout Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A central feature of the Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France is the participation of performers and residents dressed in period attire. Costumes are modeled after clothing worn in the 1600s and 1700s, including garments associated with settlers, soldiers, clergy, merchants, and Indigenous communities who were part of the historical landscape of New France. The presence of costumed participants contributes to the event’s historical interpretation and educational focus.
Food and beverage offerings during the festival reflect Québec’s culinary heritage. Vendors present traditional Québécois dishes rooted in French colonial cuisine and regional agricultural practices. Products highlighting Québec terroir—such as locally produced cheeses, baked goods, preserves, maple products, and beverages—are typically available for purchase. Artisans also offer handcrafted goods that align with historical trades and regional craftsmanship.
The festival operates with both free public programming and ticketed components. Visitors may purchase an official festival medallion through the event’s website. The medallion provides access to designated sites and activities within the official programming structure and serves as an identifying emblem of participation. Specific access details are determined annually by the organizing committee.
Because the 2026 edition will be centered in the Upper Town, attendees can expect activities to be concentrated within walking distance of major landmarks and historic fortifications. Old Québec’s Upper Town is known for its preserved architecture, public squares, and proximity to the city’s defensive walls, all of which date to the colonial era. This setting aligns with the festival’s historical theme and provides a structured environment for performances and installations.
Reserve your tickets for our Autumn Culinary Issue Launch and Immersive Tasting Experience, taking place August 7–9. This will allow you to attend both events during the same weekend in Québec City.
The Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France remains a recurring cultural event dedicated to presenting Québec’s colonial history through organized programming, historical interpretation, culinary traditions, and artisan participation.