The Old World charm and historically French culture of Quebec City have long captivated visitors.
Christmas Market
That was certainly my experience when I visited at the end of November as the German Christmas Market opened at three locations within the centuries-old fortified city walls and one just beyond the gates of Old Quebec, as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town is called. Just being there and seeing other people out and about made me think of happier times at Christmases past.
The 14th annual market has authentically replicated the traditional Christmas markets of Austria, Germany, and Alsace in France. Think over 90 wooden stalls with mulled wine, bratwurst sausages, and artisans and crafters selling their wares. Other programming includes a chalet with guest chefs, alphorn performances, strolling carolers, puppet shows, elves, and Santa Claus. As expected, everything to do and see is family friendly.
History
Of course, there is more in Quebec City for visitors over the holidays than just the market.
Founded in 1608 by the French explorer Samuel de Champlain, this is one of North America’s oldest European settlements. It served as the capital of colonial New France until the British under Gen. James Wolfe captured the city in 1759 during a seminal battle that led to France’s eventual loss in the Seven Years’ War and the Anglo-American dominance of North America.
Some of the oldest sights are found in the Lower Town beneath a promontory where the Upper Town is located. Reachable by a steep walk or a ride on the funicular railway, the buildings in the Petit Champlain Quarter—some dating to the earliest years of New France—today house shops, galleries, and other boutiques. Back in the Upper Town, parts of which overlook the St. Lawrence River, the most visible reminders of Quebec City’s complicated past are the Cathedral-Basilica of Notre Dame of Quebec (Roman Catholic) and the smaller Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (Anglican).
When You Go
As of writing, Canada is fully open for vaccinated Americans, although the Omicron variant threatens to change entry restrictions. Foreign visitors must register with the Canadian government ahead of arrival by downloading a mobile phone application and providing proof of a negative coronavirus test. Additionally, Quebec’s provincial government requires a vaccine passport—Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cards are accepted—for numerous indoor activities, including dining in restaurants.
Flying to Quebec City requires a connection at the larger airports in Montreal or Toronto on Air Canada or WestJet as there are no year-round nonstop flights to and from the United States. By car, the drive from New York City takes 8 hours.
