If your typical New Year’s Eve celebration has become ho-hum, it’s time to expand one night of partying into four at Québec’s Toboggan music festival. From your arrival on a speedy Via Rail Canada train to elite accommodations at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and fine dining at Ciel, a winter wonderland of fun, food, and French Canadian magic awaits.
Toboggan Festival
Throngs of Canadian music fans gather every year for one of the biggest live entertainment festivals in Quebec, and this year was no different. Every night from December 28-31, internationally known Canadian hip hop artists and DJs performed at Place George V. At this year’s Toboggan Festival, grounds included the Winter Village, where local food and drinks were available, as well as a musical happy hour, carousel rides, and a Ferris wheel. The festival pass ticket covered all the fun at the 3 – 2- 1 parties, and the final night, New Year’s Eve, was free and open to everyone. The December 31 party included a second venue, Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale, and pyrotechnic light shows were visible from both locations. This year, Place George V performers included DVBBS, Fafa Khan, and Domeno, while the Painchaud Family performed at Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale.
Luxury Accommodations in the Heart of Québec
The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is the ideal place for an authentic French Canadian lodging experience. Relax in graciously appointed rooms that echo Old World European style. Specialty suites offered elevated accommodations, with living and dining areas, extra powder rooms and bedrooms, and stylized decor in honor of some of Canada’s most well-known cultural figures.
The hotel went above and beyond for guests staying through Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Sumptuous buffets and 4-course meals featured specialty cocktails and live music to spread holiday cheer to all. A stroll along Terrasse Dufferin allowed postcard-perfect views of the St. Lawrence; a walk through city streets in the old part of town included window shopping and indulging in cafe treats. Hotel guests were invited to discover the rich history of the hotel with guided tours as well as self-guided experiences. Tours shared an engaging and informative look at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and its place in city history as well as brief profiles of famous Canadians who’ve stayed there.
The Ultimate in French Canadian Fine Dining
At Ciel! Bistro-Bar at Le Concorde Hotel on the famous Grande-Allée, guests experienced the full beauty of the Québec skyline while enjoying creative fine dining. It’s hard to imagine a better name for this 28th-floor restaurant that makes a full 360-degree rotation every 90 minutes. Every seat in the house was a good one as the barely perceptible movement brought the full wonder of the city into view again and again. The open-floor concept allowed guests to view the excitement of the kitchen, too, as dishes were prepared with French Canadian culinary expertise and international influence. From beef croquettes to black pudding with dahl or roasted Arctic char and lemon gnocchi, there was something for everyone. And the restaurant’s extensive wine list had the perfect accompaniment for small plates and full entrees. Pair outstanding food and drink with attentive service, and it was easy to see why people think so highly of Ciel.
A Spa Experience to Remember
A stay in Quebec City isn’t complete without a visit to the Strom Spa. Guests can enjoy spa amenities, including views of the Saint Lawrence River from its pools, waterfalls, and hot tubs. Access to the floating baths or thermal experiences is a must to add to your experience. A Swedish massage (60 min) or personalized facial treatment (60 min) will complete your experience for total relaxation. Your body thanks you in advance.
Let Via Rail Canada Take Care of the Travel
Instead of worrying about driving, gas, and tolls, let Via Rail Canada take care of getting you to and from Québec. With comfortable Business Class service that included lounge access and catered meals during the journey, it was the best way to maximize each and every moment of vacation. Stretch out in spacious seating, and marvel at the naturally beautiful landscape that whizzes by through panoramic picture windows. Rail Canada’s lounge access for business class ticket holders included concierge services, refreshments, reading materials like daily papers and national magazines, and engaging television and film programming.
Book your next New Year’s Eve trip to Québec for an experience you’ll never forget. From the multi-night Toboggan festival to comfortable rooms at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and fine dining with a view at Ciel!, foodies, families, and festival-goers found warm French Canadian hospitality that sets this destination apart.
