Quebec Winter Carnival is a festival that celebrates winter rather than escaping it. The city becomes a snow-globe of parades, games, music, and culture. The centrepiece is Bonhomme’s Ice Palace — a towering structure made entirely of ice — and Bonhomme himself leads the charge across events from dance parties to snow baths. Ice canoe races test the bravery of competitors who cross the icy St. Lawrence. Giant illuminated parades move through Old Quebec, while snow sculpture competitions and traditional Quebecois music give the event deep local flavour. It’s cold, yes — but never quiet.

• Bonhomme’s Ice Palace
• Ice Canoe Races on the St. Lawrence River
• Illuminated Night Parades through Old Quebec
• Snow Sculpture Competition
• Traditional music, food, and maple taffy stations
• Bonhomme’s Ball (evening formal event)