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Québec City is simply beautiful in the summer and fall. Old Québec’s historic architecture looks stunning nestled among all the flowers and multicolored trees. But visiting Québec City in the summer comes at a price—visitors have to share the streets, restaurants, and attractions with a lot of other people. So why not avoid all the hustle and bustle and visit in the off season? If you’re on the fence, let me tell you why planning a group trip to Québec City between November and May is great idea.

More comptetitive prices and the same exceptional service

We all know that accommodation pricing obeys the law of supply and demand. In 2018, the average rate for a hotel room in Québec City was $197/night in July and August and only $126/night in March and April—that’s a 56%  difference! And the difference was even greater (61%) for hotels with over 200 rooms.

On average, visitors to the Québec City area spend 37% of their travel budget on accommodations, so it’s easy to understand that when you save more on the rooms, there’s more money available to offer your clients better restaurants, more unusual entertainment, and more popular activities. What better way to stand out from the competition!

And you could save even more by contacting service providers that are also looking to offer their activities for a longer period of the year to make their facilities more profitable and retain skilled employees.

Certain suppliers are more willing and able to handle custom requests during the off season. The staff in Québec City’s stores are known for being extremely welcoming and generous with their time, and these qualities shine even brighter during less busy periods.

Québec City in November

In November, when the trees shed their leaves, the days get shorter and shorter, and the temperature inches closer to 0^oC, the atmosphere of the city completely changes.

The shopping streets in each district trade their jack-o’-lanterns for lights and it begins to look a lot like Christmas. Fir trees of all sizes appear throughout the city, brightly adorned with lights and colorful decorations. Store windows glisten with lively displays as the evenings grow longer. All the bars, cafes, and restaurants take on a warm and cozy feel—time seems to expand and people linger over shared mealso or enjoy drinks by the fire. With a bit of luck, your clients may witness the first snow of the season—it doesn’t stay long, but it never fails to delight children and the young at heart.

Québec City in December, January, and February

When you visit Québec City in December, January, and February, you can get to know Quebecers and better understand their relationship to winter.

Want to offer your clients from outside Québec an unforgettable trip? Why not introduce them to a real Québec winter! Québec City has everything they need to have a blast and venture off the beaten track, while still enjoying the comfort of a four-star hotel in the heart of the city.

Whether your groups are more interested in culture or the great outdoors, you can guarantee they’ll have an unforgettable experience with winter classics like the festive atmosphere of the Petit Champlain district, the spectacular falls at Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, or the majestic Hôtel de glace, which is sure to wow them.

You can also experience the joys of winter without ever leaving the city! Your clients will have plenty of stories to tell when they get back from ice fishing inside a comfy igloo on Bassin Louise or exploring the Plains of Abraham, guided by an early 20th century snowshoer (traditional snowshoes, arrow sashes, lanterns, and hot chocolate are included).

There’s also no shortage of activities for more athletically-inclined visitors looking to take full advantage of a snowy destination. Why not give snowmobiling a try?

Or take the opportunity to safely learn how to ski or snowboard? Or even experience the thrill of driving a team of sled dogs? And the best part is you can do it all without travelling too far out of town!

Québec City in March and April

In March and April, it starts to warm up and the snow begins to melt, making it nicer to explore the city on foot. Visitors can take a personalized guided tour of Old Québec and surrounding areas such as the St-Jean-Baptiste and Montcalm districtst. It’s so lovely to stroll by Québec City’s historic sites, walk along rue St-Jean and up rue Cartier, stop for a warm drink at a café or visit Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, then continue along Grande-Allée before heading back to enjoy a glass of wine or relax at the hotel’s spa! In the evening, it only takes a few minutes to walk to Place d’Youville, where your clients can enjoy dinner and a show at Théâtre Le Capitole or an intimate concert at Palais Montcalm.

  

In early spring, your clients may be in the mood to shop till they drop! There are lots of stores and shops in the downtown area, but Québec City also has a number of major shopping centers and each has its own vibe. The two main ones are Laurier Québec, which is the second largest shopping center in Québec with over 12 million visitors each year, and Galeries de la Capitale, which was recently renovated and includes a Cineplex IMAX movie theatre and an amusement park. Both centers offer significant benefits and discounts to tour groups—simply contact their customer service before you visit.

Québec City has the advantage of being located near amazing farmlands—such as on Île d’Orléans and in the Portneuf region—that are put to creative use by talented producers. What with its tradition of European cuisine with a North American spin, Québec City is a great place to live and an even better place to eat. Early spring, when the world is coming out of its winter slumber, can be a great time for your clients to take a group cooking class and learn about local products and regional culinary traditions. Bon appétit!

Conclusion

It’s just as possible to plan an exquisite trip to Québec City in November as it is in July or September. No matter what the season, Québec City’s fortifications and historic buildings stand tall against the sky, brimming with European charm. But the atmosphere changes with the seasons and each month has its own unique feel. Every season offers visitors an authentic one-of-a-kind experience.

The off-season is the best time to fully experience the friendliness that Quebecers are known for. The cozy winter atmosphere and the slower pace—especially outside the Winter Carnival period—leave more room for genuine encounters and discussions with locals that your clients will really appreciate.

If you need help developing a new tour program for a trip between November and May, please feel free to contact me. I and the advisors at Québec City Tourism would be happy to assist you in planning a special and unforgettable stay for your clients.

My new favorite!

I would like to share an amazing experience I had recently at the show, Piano Man Experience. I went with my coworker Maxime, group artists coordinator, and we didn’t really know what to expect. It was an incredible evening!

Christian Marc Gendron is an accomplished pianist who recreates the experience of a piano bar by performing timeless hits by the great singers and composers from the 1940s to today. Gendron masterfully hosts the evening, which includes a medley of greatest hits by Ray Charles, Billy Joel, and Elton John to introduce people to the repertoire and a quiz to encourage audience participation. The vocals by talented singer Manon Séguin gave me goosebumps. Supported by three other musicians, her powerful voice and touching interpretations of the songs moved everyone in the audience, both young and old. It was a magical evening!

On behalf of the staff at Hôtel Château Laurier Québec, I’d like to wish you all health, happiness and success for the New Year and I hope you discover your own favorites during your next stay in Québec City. Don’t forget to tell your group leaders to come and see me when they arrive at the hotel—I have a gift for them!

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Canada and Québec have both made commitments to sustainable development that call for us all to become more aware of how our behaviour affects the environment and what we can do about it.

Hôtel Château Laurier Québec joined the movement almost ten years ago now and established a policy for sustainable development to help guide its efforts.

RESPECT!

In many ways, sustainable development is a new way of defining values that have always been embraced by hotel management. Those values can be summed up in a single word: RESPECT. Respect for our customers, respect for our employees, respect for our partners. Respect for our community, respect for our culture, and of course, respect for our natural environment.

Having a sustainable development policy is good. Taking concrete steps on a daily basis to achieve results is much better. That’s why we’ve established simple principles to guide our decisions and steer the efforts made by every department in the hotel. These principles are aligned with our belief in improving quality of life at work and ensuring transparency and high ethical standards in our business relationships. They underpin our actions to reduce our ecological footprint and support the community organizations and social causes we care about. And they reflect our desire to promote Francophone culture and the creativity of our local artists and artisans.

Making the right decisions to reduce, reuse, and recycle

Everything starts with the choice and management of our facilities and equipment and the use of products aligned with our commitment to sustainable development. Next come our recycling services (recycling bins on multiple floors), rigorous water management (purification and watering, saltwater pool, water stations instead of bottled water), and energy-saving measures (energy-efficient lightbulbs, no lighting and low heat in meeting rooms when not in use).

We also buy local whenever we can. Hotel bedding, drapes, and furniture and the personal hygiene products we use (which are organic and biodegradable) are all made in Quebec according to standards for ethical and responsible manufacturing. The same goes for our FLO electric vehicle charging stations, two of which are reserved for our employees and three of which are offered to our customers free of charge (and without any parking fees).

Eco-friendly event planning

Hôtel Château Laurier Québec hosts numerous events every year, from business meetings and conferences to receptions and weddings. Preparing and holding these events can generate a lot of vehicle use, use a lot of paper, and create a lot of garbage and food waste.

We saw this as a great opportunity to line up our various green initiatives with those of our suppliers and clients in order to make our events eco-friendly.

That includes providing event organizers with a list of best practices for eco-friendly events.

We also give our clients the option of making an environmental contribution to offset their event’s ecological footprint. The contribution is voluntary and comes in the form of a clause that can be added to their contract. If they accept, the $1.50/person contribution goes toward Adoptez un habitat. Contributions have been used to support wetland protection projects in Ste‑Anne‑de‑la‑Pérade and Grondines, wildlife habitat protection in Îles‑de‑la‑Madeleine, and interpretation activities at the Provencher Marsh in Neuville. In return, clients receive a certificate attesting to the eco‑friendliness of their event.

George V banquet and catering services is also an active partner in our quest for sustainable development. Most of the products they use are local (less than 300 km from producer to table), organic, and seasonal. Some of them are even hyperlocal, such as the fresh herbs grown in the hotel’s Four Seasons Garden and the honey from the hives on the hotel roof. Our honey, along with honey from other hives in town, is even sold to raise funds for community projects. We also try to minimize the use of single-portion food and drinks as well as disposable cutlery. And any extra food is managed responsibly through composting and food bank donations in order to minimize garbage and waste.

Playing an active role in the community

We’re committed to being active in our local community, whether it means fielding a team of employees to take part in the annual Alzheimer’s walk (  or attending a presentation by someone who’s been able to get back on their feet thanks to our donations to United Way. Although some of these activities may involve a financial contribution, they’re mostly about time and commitment. Whatever collective action we choose to invest in, we all—management, staff, everyone—have to be informed, motivated, and ready to put in the time and effort to reach our goals.

Earlier I mentioned that our surplus food is sent to food banks; in the same spirit, furniture, bedding, baths, showers, and other items that no longer correspond to the standards of a four-star hotel are also donated to charitable organizations such as the local Women’s Centre, Maison Lauberivière, Patro Roc‑Amadour, Society of Saint‑Vincent de Paul, Maison Dauphine, and Cité Joie.

We also nurture our community by promoting Québec culture and local artists. You’ll notice that we have gorgeous paintings by local artists hanging on the walls of our rooms and common areas. Perk up your ears and you’ll find that part of the Hôtel Château Laurier Québec’s special vibe also comes from the French-language music playing here and there throughout the hotel.

Our employees at the heart of everything we do

All of this would be impossible without the active participation of all our staff. To make sure our sustainable development initiatives are more than just a simple list of good intentions, we’ve created an internal sustainable development committee (the Green Committee) to guide and motivate our staff and provide helpful advice.

The committee is responsible for evolving our practices by stimulating innovation and proposing new ideas that help drive continuous improvement. It’s also tasked with reviewing our sustainable development objectives and advising the hotel’s other committees in that regard. Members also work to build awareness and circulate information. They talk to hotel suppliers and partners about the importance of adopting sustainable practices and they share success stories and results internally to encourage us to pursue our efforts.

An approach that sets us apart from the competition

Of course, our sustainable development policy is framed by our business objectives, but it’s a productive approach in that it drives us to innovate and find better, smarter solutions in every area of our operations. Over the years, our actions have earned us certifications from Green Key (four keys), RéserVert, and Recyc-Québec (level two). And these achievements haven’t gone unnoticed by our business clients. Here’s a concrete example.

When we signed a contract with Québec’s Regional Landscaping Association, AAQR, to host their annual congress, their representative Véronique Vallée told us that her association had chosen Hôtel Château Laurier Québec over equal or comparatively priced alternatives for the following reasons:

• It’s a local family business;
• It has a comprehensive, wide-ranging sustainable development policy that includes green measures, social engagement, and promotion of the French language;
• The policy colours every aspect of the client experience;
• Sustainable development is a fundamental principle for AARQ.

We’re proud to offer our guests a memorable experience while at the same time minimizing the negative impacts of their stay on the physical environment and maximizing the positive economic and social impacts for the community.

MY PERSONAL FAVORITE!

By the time you read these lines, I will have made a trip or two to Québec City’s German Christmas Market. Every year I can hardly wait for the market to open. It’s just like the ones you find in Europe and brings the same feelings of warmth and good cheer (as long as you’re well dressed!).

The colourful lights, sparkling decorations, music, and smiles at the market will take you back to your childhood, but there’s more than that. It’s a chance to discover the food and traditions of Alsace and Germany in a setting reminiscent of an Alpine chalet. Families with children can hear wonderful stories, create characters, watch a puppet show, and meet the real Santa Claus (good ol’ Saint Nicolas).

There are some 80 wooden kiosks where producers, artists, and artisans await with a wide range of original products in a friendly, festive locale. Every year it’s a wonderful experience of finding unique gifts that I can’t wait to give. There are clothes made from wool and recycled fur, ingenious kitchen implements, lamb terrines, apfelbrot bread with apples, rum, and raisins, decorative aspen paddles—truly something for everyone and every budget. You can also just go to soak up the atmosphere, hear a choir, eat some cheese fondue, drink some mulled wine, or have a coffee and churro. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon!

I’d like to take this moment to wish you and everyone in your family a wonderful holiday season from me and all of my colleagues at Hôtel Château Laurier Québec. We wish you health and happiness and a wonderful start to the new year. Cheers!

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When November sets in all cold and grey, there’s one thing to really look forward to nonetheless—all the lights and magic of the holiday season. As Quebecers settle in for another winter, they also look for opportunities to immerse themselves in beauty and fun. Since 2008, the German Christmas Market, which runs this year from November 22 to December 23, has become one of the most hotly anticipated winter events in the city. But why a “German” market? Does Québec City really have a discernable population with German roots? The Hôtel Château Laurier Québec concierge team decided to look into this question for you!

A long-standing presence

According to some genealogists, one in ten Quebecers has some German ancestry. The first German immigrants arrived in Québec City in the 17th century, in the days of New France. Some who started families saw their family names Frenchified over time (Bernhard became Bernard, Deigne became Daigle, and so on.). However, it was during the American Revolution (1775–1783) that German immigration really hit its peak, with over 1,000 officers and soldiers of German descent settling in Quebec after the war. And another wave of immigrants arrived in the aftermath of World War II.

More recently, the tech sector has drawn young German families to the area. At the turn of the millennium, there were about 2,000 first-generation German immigrants in the greater Capitale-Nationale region.

Deutsche Kultur

Although relatively few in number, Québec City residents of German descendant are a very active cultural group. Founded in 1946, Cercle Goethe presents monthly talks and literary and musical events to an audience of Germans, Alsatians, Swiss, Eastern European immigrants, and Germanophile Quebecers. Deutsche Sprachschule Quebec also offers German language courses to people of all ages.

Communauté Allemande Québec is a group whose mission is to promote German culture in general, including its customs, music, literature, films, history, and language in Québec City. The organization participates in various local events, including the Festibière de Québec beer festival, where it sets up a Bavarian-style beer tent—a nod to Germany’s storied brewing tradition.

And most notably of all, since 2008, the square and gardens of Québec City Hall have come alive every holiday season with a bustling German Christmas Market.

A German-style Christmas Market

In Germany, every town and village has its own Christmas market where locals come together to stroll, eat, play, shop, and stock up on gifts.

In keeping with this tradition, Québec City’s German Christmas Market recreates this cheerful and enchanting atmosphere as faithfully as possible—much to the delight of thousands of locals and out-of-town visitors.

From November 22 to December 23, against the beautifully illuminated backdrop of Old Québec, an alpine chalet, outdoor stages, and some 80 wooden booths will be set up so that market-goers can enjoy all the warmth and cheer on offer from the various vendors, restaurateurs, and artisans. Germany may be the star of the show, but you’ll also find some of the best products Québec has to offer.

Parade and Music

There are many ways to get the most out of Québec City’s German Christmas Market. You can simply stroll around and see what catches your eye, or you can plan your outing based on what’s going on at the market. Various activities and shows are scheduled in November and December to celebrate the finest German and European Christmas traditions.

We’ve picked out a few that might coincide with your stay in Québec City!

To kick off the first weekend with a bang, Bavarian trio Kaltentaler Alphornbläser will fill Old Québec with the impressive sounds of the alphorn November 22 to 25. Fun fact: Québec City’s German Christmas Market even features a special event for canine companions—the Weihnachtshundeparade (dog parade), which will be held on November 29 and December 7.

Ever heard of Krampus, the horned figure who frightens children who’ve been naughty rather than nice? A show inspired by this creature out of European folklore will feature music and pyrotechnics on December 7 and 15. Or if you’re more interested in stories about the origins of the Christmas tree, yule log, Christmas cards, and other holiday folk traditions of Europe and North America, you won’t want to miss the captivating Der Meistererzähler on December 2, 15, and 22.

The Der kleine Weihnachtschor choir will enchant fans of traditional Christmas music. This small choral ensemble will perform carols from Germany (and other parts of Europe) and Canada on December 9, 14, and 22. Moreover, let’s not forget the Feuerzangenbowle, a flambéed mulled wine that’s as intriguing to see in the making as it is delicious to drink. This typically German libation will be served starting a few days before Christmas on the evening of December 21.

Children are also in for a treat with Kinderchalet Ravensburger, an area created especially for kids where they can play and take part in activities free of charge while the Christmas Market is open.

Did someone say “pretzel”?

A Christmas market isn’t a Christmas market without festive food. And this one is chock full of German specialties you’ll love discovering or rediscovering, including pretzels, Stollen (German cakes), gingerbread, and the always-comforting Glühwein (mulled wine).

Young and old alike can enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many stands serving up Swiss fondue, jumbo hotdogs, charcuterie, terrines, rillettes, cheeses from near and far, sweets, waffles, macaroons, chocolate, nougat, and maple products. There’s something for everyone. While you’re there, why not pick up a nice bottle of cider, Québec certified wine or berry liqueurs? They make a fantastic hostess gift when you’re invited to a gathering.

Gifts for everyone

This festive Christmas village is also a great place to find original gifts sure to please. Artisan vendors from Europe (naturally with strong contingent representing Germany and Switzerland) and various regions of Québec occupy many of the approximately 80 wooden booths.

Visitors will have plenty of opportunities to find local and international handicrafts, including soft knitted shawls, ceramic houses, handmade jewelry, herbal products, blown glass creations, scented candles, alpaca wool socks, works of art, original ecofriendly products, and more.

In short, Québec City’s German Christmas Market is a great place to find fabulous gifts for everyone on your list—family, friends, coworkers, even customers! 

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Whether you’re a Québec City regular or a first-time visitor, the concierges at Hôtel Château Laurier Québec will be happy to do anything they can to make your life easier. Feel free to call on us whatever your wants or needs and tap into our extensive knowledge of the city and its surroundings. We’ll be more than happy to help you find what you’re looking for so you have more time to make wonderful memories.

Looking for a place to stay? Hôtel Château Laurier Québec offers attractive packages to make your stay even better. Plus, Hôtel Château Bellevue, our sister hotel, is a partner of the German Christmas Market. Check out their special package.