Old Quebec hosts L’Étrange Carnaval from 23 to 25 October
Published on 10/18/2026 at 01:54 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael MĂĽller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWS
Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) hosts L’Étrange Carnaval from 23 to 25 October 2026, bringing an outdoor Halloween programme to Quebec, Canada. The fourth edition uses the Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville and other streets and public spaces in the historic district.
The event is designed for the general public and combines a retro fairground atmosphere with street entertainment. It offers a specific reason to visit the walled city during the three-day period, rather than simply presenting the district as a year-round sightseeing destination.
L’Étrange Carnaval brings Halloween events to Old Quebec
The organiser’s programme lists L’Étrange Carnaval from 23 October 2026 to 25 October 2026. The main locations include the Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, Place d’Youville and other venues in the surrounding quarter.
The programme includes public activities inspired by historic fairgrounds, mysterious performances and street animations. It also lists a costumed procession on 24 October, beginning at Place d’Youville, alongside activities at the gardens and nearby cultural venues. The 2026 programme gives the event dates, locations and individual activities.
Old Quebec’s ramparts frame the October festival
The event takes place within the Historic District of Old Québec, an urban area founded in the seventeenth century and divided between the Upper Town and Lower Town. The Upper Town stands on Cap Diamant, while the Lower Town developed around Place Royale and the harbour.
The district is the only city in North America to have preserved its ramparts, including bastions, gates and other defensive works. UNESCO describes the area as a fortified colonial town and records its inscription on the World Heritage List in 1985. Its setting gives the October programme a direct connection with the walls, squares and historic streets that define the visit. The UNESCO district profile records the heritage site’s history, layout and protected features.
Visiting Old Quebec: what travellers from Western Europe should know
- L’Étrange Carnaval runs from 23 October 2026 to 25 October 2026, with the Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville among its principal venues.
- The event is outdoor and open to the general public. The organiser describes access as free, with activities distributed through public squares, streets and participating venues.
- The main locations are in Old Quebec, including the Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville and Place d’Youville in Quebec City.
- The district has both an Upper Town on Cap Diamant and a Lower Town near Place Royale and the harbour, so visitors should expect streets with changes in level between the two areas.
Searching for Old Quebec on social platforms
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Frequently asked questions about Old Quebec
When does L’Étrange Carnaval take place at Old Quebec?
L’Étrange Carnaval takes place from 23 October 2026 to 25 October 2026.
Where is Old Quebec and how do you get there?
Old Quebec is the historic district of Quebec City in Canada. The festival’s listed locations include the Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville and Place d’Youville.
What is Old Quebec?
Old Quebec is a fortified historic district with Upper and Lower Town areas, preserved ramparts and monuments including the Citadel and Château Frontenac. UNESCO added the district to the World Heritage List in 1985.
