Quebec Carnival: Survive the Cold in Style
The Quebec Carnival is the largest winter carnival in the world. Two weeks of festivities in sometimes Siberian cold. The Carrera Cafe is your warm refuge, your thermal pit stop, your headquarters in Petit-Champlain.
Between activities, the Carrera Cafe awaits you for a strategic warm-up.
The canoe race on the frozen Saint Lawrence River is the most spectacular activity of the Carnival. Teams cross the river by carrying and paddling through the floating ice.
International teams sculpt monumental ice blocks on the Plains of Abraham. An ephemeral art of striking beauty, illuminated at night.
Each year, a palace built entirely of ice blocks takes shape in the heart of Old Quebec. The architecture changes with each edition, always more impressive.
On the Plains or in Old Quebec, giant slides let you race down snowy slopes at high speed. A Carnival classic for kids and adults alike.
A festive and costumed evening at Palais Montcalm. Music, carnival atmosphere, meeting with Bonhomme. Reservation required, spots fill up fast.
A temporary village where countries from around the world showcase their winter culture. Gastronomy, crafts, music: a world tour in just a few square meters.
After an hour outside at -20 degrees, the Carrera Cafe becomes the most precious refuge in Petit-Champlain.
Carnival logistics necessarily include warming breaks. No one, not even the toughest, stays outside for more than two hours without stopping somewhere. The Carrera Cafe is the ideal strategic stop: located right in the heart of Petit-Champlain, just steps from the main activity sites.
Our team knows the Carnival rhythm. In February, we adapt service to welcome visitors quickly, warm them efficiently, and send them back on the circuit in good shape. The perfect pit stop, just like in Formula 1.
Carrera signature mulled wine, Pit Stop board (mortadella, aged cheddar, ciabatta), and a Scuderia espresso to go. The ideal formula for a perfect 20-minute break right in the middle of Carnival.
In February, our winter menu takes the stage. Drinks designed for Quebec’s cold.
Full-bodied red, orange, cinnamon, clove, star anise. Slowly simmered, served very hot. The unofficial Carnival drink according to our regulars. Impossible to leave without having a second.
Double espresso, whole steamed milk, artisanal bourbon vanilla syrup. Creamy, comforting, smooth. The premium version of the warming coffee. For those who prefer coffee over wine.
Single origin cocoa, whole milk, a touch of sea salt. No powder packets, no substitutes. A real hot chocolate as rarely made in Quebec. Ideal for children and those with a sweet tooth.
Our teams have survived dozens of Carnivals. Here are their tips to stay stylish even at -25 degrees.
Thermal underwear, insulating mid-layer (wool or down), waterproof windbreaker jacket. This basic rule applies in Quebec as much as at the North Pole. Never go out without all three active layers.
Body heat is mainly lost through the head and extremities. Warm toque (hat), thermal mittens or gloves, insulated winter boots down to -40. Cold feet ruin a whole day.
To experience the Carnival differently: exclusive experiences by reservation.
A private evening at the bar during the Carnival: unlimited mulled wine, seasonal platters, exclusive atmosphere away from the crowd. By reservation only, very limited seats in February.
On Carnival weekends, a special brunch with warm focaccia, seasonal cheeses, mulled wine or latte, full platter. The ideal start before facing the day.
Custom group menus, dedicated service, semi-private space. Ideal for groups visiting Quebec for the Carnival. Reservation required 48 hours in advance.
The secret of the Carnival is to accept the cold rather than fight it. Dress properly, plan your warming breaks, and let the atmosphere carry you. A mulled wine at the Carrera Cafe after an hour on the ice: it’s one of the most delicious moments of winter in Quebec. The contrast between the cold outside and the warmth inside is a unique experience.
Watch the canoe race on the frozen Saint Lawrence, then return to the Carrera Cafe for mulled wine and a platter. The perfect Carnival combo.
The sculptures on the Plains of Abraham before the crowd arrives, at 8 a.m., then a Scuderia espresso at the Carrera to warm up before the day.
End a Carnival day at the Carrera Cafe bar with a hot cocktail, cheese platter, and cozy atmosphere. The best party spirit stays here.
Book your table for the Carnival
The Quebec Carnival is in February. The Carrera Cafe is every day. Book your table in advance: seats fill up fast during the Carnival.
Book now See the winter menu
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