Photo credit: TQ - Drowster

6 ideas to experience the magic of the holidays this December

Step into the wonder of the holiday season and explore some of Quebec’s most breathtaking heritage sites decked out in festive charm. Divine Quebec has handpicked 6 outing ideas that combine holiday cheer with the timeless beauty of historic landmarks — perfect for creating magical memories this December!

01 Discover the experience
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Discover the experience

Visit a Christmas market
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What better way to dive into the holiday spirit than by visiting a Christmas market? Held at the stunning Our Lady of the Cape Shrine, the Trois-Rivières Christmas market invites you to browse local products, meet 75 talented artisans and enjoy festive activities, such as carriage rides, enchanting concerts, live performances, and of course, a visit from Santa Claus! A family outing you won’t want to miss on the weekend of December 6 and 7, 2025!

Feel the magic of the holidays in a historic neighbourhood
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Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Old Québec City under the snow during the holiday season, when traditions and festivities intertwine. Start with a visit to the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, a place steeped in history perfect for reflecting on the spiritual meaning of Christmas. Then, marvel at the twinkling lights and spicy aromas of the Québec City German Christmas Market from Thursday to Sunday from November 20 to December 23, 2025. Crafts, festive delights and fun activities transport you into the same traditional atmosphere that can be found at Christmas markets in Europe!

Plan a stay and enjoy a week-long holiday program
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Treat yourself to a vacation and celebrate Christmas at the Ermitage Saint-Antoine in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, where a warm atmosphere awaits. The team and the Capuchins welcome you with a full festive program from December 22 to 29, 2025: groomed trails for hiking and snowshoeing—including a torchlit evening walk—a Christmas concert, and a cheery Chrismas Eve celebration at the restaurant, among other activities. Stay in a hotel room or a chalet and fully embrace the holiday spirit at the heart of this inspiring natural setting!

Have fun with some crazy elves
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Every year, some mischievous elves make the trip to the Ursuline Museum, promising fun and laughter for the whole family. This year, with Les défis des lutins (The Elves’ Challenges), they’re inviting you to follow a playful self-guided course to complete their favourite winter challenges! After this adventure, kids are invited to join in a winter craft session, adding a creative touch to this festive experience.

Shop for gourmet gifts
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Who doesn’t love receiving a sweet or savoury treat as a gift? To spoil your loved ones and tempt their taste buds, offer them something from the Val-Notre-Dame Abbey store. Choose from caramel, chocolates, forest syrups, maple, spices and many more locally made gourmet products. A special mention for the delicious onion confit duo—an excellent pairing with cheese, bread or a sandwich!

Discover the history and values of the Hospitallers
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The holiday season is a time to reflect on sharing and mutual aid, values embodied by the Hospitallers of Montreal in their mission. Take the opportunity to pay tribute to them with a guided tour. Explore the old monastery, the congregation’s private home from 1861 to 2019, or discover spaces steeped in history such as the chapel, beneath which lies the tomb of Jeanne Mance, and the crypt, where nearly 600 Hospitallers are laid to rest. You can visit the monastery on Sundays, December 7 and 21, 2025, and the crypt and chapel on Sunday, December 14, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to see these sites, which are not usually open to the public except as part of guided tours.

 

Photo credit: TQ - Christian Savard
Photo credit: Marie-Anne Gaudreault