Our tips to enjoy the Festival d'été de Québec
How to get there?
Using public transportation is ideal. Québec City’s public transportation (RTC), runs more buses more frequently and provides free parking lots with shuttle service as an added incentive.
Parking in old Quebec during an event is difficult. If you really want to drive into town, it is best to arrive as early as you can. Be warned that, if you arrive right before the show, you will most likely be stuck in traffic.
Where to stay?
If you ever decide to stay a few nights in town, which is a great idea, renting a room in the Old Quebec city is ideal. You will save time before and after the shows since you won’t have to wait in line for the bus or in your car in the traffic. Also, you will be right into the festivities and will be near a lot of attractions during the day.
L’Hotel du Vieux-Quebec is located in the heart of the Quebec city old town and a few minutes' walk from the music stages of the Summer Festival. Furthermore, you'll be very happy to walk downhill to come back to your room after spending hours standing in a crowd.
How to enjoy the city
Quebec city is filled with energy, amazing people, history, great food and much more. Taking a few days to feel the festival vibe is a must. You can start your day with a run on the Samuel de Champlain walk or you can take it slow and have a cup of coffee at a local coffee shop.
Later, you can visit a museum, walk on the cobbled streets, take a walking tour or visit the countryside.
End your day with a nice meal and a glass of wine on a terrace before to head out to the music stage.
Other tips
The best advice we can give you is: Get there early! If you are heading to the main stage, on the Plaine d’Abraham, arrive for the opening act, you’ll have more chances to get a good spot. Don’t forget, it is a 80 000 person venue.
You must know that all bags will be searched. The waiting lines will be separated in three: one line for empty hands, one for strollers and the mobility-impaired and another for backpacks. To get in faster, go empty handed. If you want to bring stuff, only pack the essentials. For more information on what you can and can’t bring check this list.
There are restrooms onsite, but try not to go in between shows since the line up can be extremely long.
Make sure you are prepared for any type of weather. You don’t want to miss the show of your life because of the rain! You can carry a small poncho in your pocket as well as a plastic bag to protect your phone from the water. Also, bring a sweater with you, the temperature is warm into the crown but as soon as you start leaving the site it can feel chilly.
Leaving the site can take as much time as to get in. Be patient and follow the crowd.