Since 1843, Saint-Jean-Baptiste (Saint John the Baptist) Day has been celebrated in Quebec cities and between other Francophone communities across the country. Every 24th of June, it gathers everyone in the six main cities of Quebec.
Modern Saint Jean Celebration
This originally religious celebration turned into a patriotic event, ever since Canadians chose Saint-Jean-Baptiste as their patron and protector. Later, inspired by the Irish St. Patrick's Day, this feast became the main national holiday of the region.
The celebrations include mass, parades, recreational activities, bonfires, and much more. This all is accompanied by national music, dancing, and white-and-blue flags everywhere. Visitors can really feel the spirit of New France and its exceptional culture.
Fête Nationale Show in Quebec City (June 23, 2024)
Year after year, Quebec City celebrates Saint Jean Baptiste Day on the Plains of Abraham, located in the Battlefield Park. The residents gather together to witness a selection of exciting musical performances, as well as to honor Quebec's French identity and culture. The concert begins at 6:30 pm and continues late into the night. The lineup features Mara Tremblay, Marie-Annick Lépine, Paul Daraîche, and many others. This year's slogan is symbolic of the evening spectacle—"Let's meet under the stars." Admission to the show is completely free.
Fête Nationale Show in Montreal (June 23, 2024)
Montreal hosts its own grand spectacular featuring dozens of beloved artists and entertainment. The show normally takes place at Maisonneuve Park, one of the largest parks in the city. Past performers include such starts like Jay Jay, Fouki, Marjo, Isabelle Boulay, Lydia Képinski and more. This year, Claude Dubois, Roxane Bruneau, Patsy Gallant, Queenie, Daniel Lavoie, Kanen, and more amazing artists will perform at the venue. The venue normally opens at 12 pm, while the concert itself begins at 8:30 pm. The best thing about the show is that you can enter for free. If you can't attend, the event is annually broadcast on Ici TOU.TV and TVA+.
Fête Nationale Parade in Montreal (June 24, 2024)
One of the most significant events on this day is Montreal's Fête Nationale parade. It's also called Défilé des Géants or the Parade of Giants. It features huge papier mâché figures of Quebec's prominent politicians, musicians, and poets, like former premier René Lévesque and one of the founders of Montreal, Jeanne Mance.
However, in recent years, the focus of the event has shifted from giants to the celebration of everything about Quebec. Current processions feature large banners or paintings dedicated to Quebec's history, its evolution and the most prominent moments. There are also floats dedicated to French heritage and other things. About 2000 people participate in the event. The parade departs from Saint-Joseph Boulevard East at 1:30 pm.
Fête Nationale Celebration in Laval (June 23-24, 2024)
Another city in Quebec region, Laval, boasts its way of celebrating Saint Jean Baptiste Day. Similar to Quebec City and Montreal, the picturesque Laval holds a grand concert at the Nature Center on June 23rd. Prior to the show, from 10 am, you'll have a chance to have fun on the inflatables and games, and treat yourself to delicious festival foods.
The performances begin at 8:30 pm and mainly consist of classic Quebec songs, as well as some modern hits from local talent. This year's lineup includes Zachary Richard, Ya Cetidon, Ariane Moffatt, Laurence Jalbert, Qualité Motel, and more. On June 24th, all kinds of live performances and exciting entertainment unfolds from 10 am until 6 pm.
