Nope! No need to wait for summer to enjoy the various festivals and events held in the North Shore! Being one of the snowiest regions in Canada, we celebrate winter with contagious enthusiasm. Grab a warm tuque and a hot chocolate and discover with us 7 events not to be missed in 2019!

Big Screen Delights!

In January, we kick off with not one, but two film festivals! Far from the big cities, one might think that independent, international, and classic cinema is inaccessible on the North Shore, but on the contrary, cinephiles are more than spoiled here. During the coldest month of the year, it's nice to warm up with some popcorn while discovering incredibly original cinematic works.

Cinoche, International Film Festival of Baie-Comeau

(January 17 to 27, 2019):

At Images de glace, we watch a movie on a giant snow screen. Enough to impress both young and old.

Having celebrated its 30th anniversary last winter, the reputation of Cinoche, the Baie-Comeau International Film Festival, speaks for itself. In 2019, under the honorary presidency of actor Pierre-Luc Brillant, the festival will present 32 films from 23 countries in the 4 theaters of the Ciné-Centre Baie-Comeau.

Various activities are also presented, including the screening of an animated film on a giant snow screen, "Images de glace", which is an essential family activity in winter. At Café L'Arseno, cinema talks with renowned guests and cinema professionals allow for a discussion on the films viewed. Be there and try to guess which films will win the 10 Outarde awards in 2019!

-» Website: Festival Cinoche

Ciné 7, Sept-Îles Film Festival

(January 24 to February 3, 2019):

Youngsters also get initiated into the 7th art during the Ciné 7 Festival, taking place from January 24 to February 3.

After Baie-Comeau, it's Sept-Îles' turn to be animated by the passion for cinema. During the Ciné 7 Festival, you'll find a varied program of films produced worldwide.

Special activities, meetings with actors, short films, lectures, movies on an ice wall are also on the agenda! It's an opportunity to step out of our comfort zone and watch surprising and refreshing cinematic works.

-» Website: Sept-Îles Film Festival

Boréal Loppet in Forestville

(February 23, 2019):

Addressing both sports enthusiasts and families, the cross-country skiing competition Boréal Loppet is a unique opportunity to take on a challenge alone or with friends.

Next February 23, the 15th edition of the Boréal Loppet will welcome skiers from all over Quebec. At the end of the day, participants and volunteers will celebrate their success around a convivial banquet. This well-organized event welcomes us warmly. Proof: the Boréal Loppet even held the longest cross-country ski race in the world from 2004 to 2011, covering 103 km.

In 2019, various courses for all ages and levels extend from 1.7 to 48 km. You'll find some very technical routes for the most competitive skiers.

Prefer to participate just for fun and admire the scenery? Three non-timed distances are offered, and there will even be a color run!

Fat bike enthusiasts? Two races of 12 and 24 km will be on the program! So, are you up for it?

-» Website: Boréal Loppet

Winter Festival in Sept-Îles

(February 28 to March 3, 2019):

During the first weekend of the March break, join the Winter Festival with the family at the old trading post of Sept-Îles! This place with a rich heritage opens a window onto local history and Indigenous culture.

Through interpretive guides and craft demonstration workshops, discover an enchanting place that will not leave you cold! Local artists are at the heart of the festivities, and several musical performances warm up the atmosphere. Try traditional dancing in the snow. In an illuminated dome, discover Nordic flavors around the fire, to the captivating rhythm of a "makusham". Let yourself be told our story under a starry sky. The Winter Festival is an experience rich in sharing and discoveries that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

-» Promotional Video: Winter Festival

Mid-Lent Carnival in Natashquan

(March 24 to 30):

A celebration akin to the Mardi Gras in Louisiana, Mid-Lent Carnival is a grand carnival that allows us to break with the rigors of winter in joy and laughter. In 1855, Acadian immigrants from the Magdalen Islands landed in Natashquan with the custom of going from house to house, disguised and masked. The tradition dating back to the Middle Ages is still very much alive in Natashquan, one of the few places where it is still celebrated today!

Enthusiasts prepare their costumes months in advance, and a few weeks before the celebrations, everyone becomes suspicious! Amateur detectives get to work. They gather clues to succeed in unmasking the "mid-Lent celebrants"... because the ultimate goal is not to be recognized!

(Source: www.lafabriqueculturelle.tv)

-» Video La Fabrique Culturelle: Mid-Lent Carnival in Natashquan -» Website: Mid-Lent Carnival in Natashquan

Taïga Carnival in Fermont

(March 22 to 24, 2019):

Taïgouin, the Carnival mascot, has a blast!

The Taïga Carnival in Fermont (the northern city with the famous wall) is a must-attend family event that will appeal to young and old alike. There is so much snow that they even organize a snow blower race!

A varied and original program awaits us. With mascot Taïgouin, we have a blast! Slides, snowball fights (Yukigassen), snow triathlon, snowmobile drags, and several shows will entertain you.

Keep an eye on the Taïga website for information on the 2019 edition!

-» Website: Taïga Carnival

Taïga 200 Challenge in Fermont

(March 22 to 24, 2019):

Dog lovers? Take the famous Route 389 to the Taïga 200 Challenge in Fermont...

The longest sled dog race in eastern Canada awaits us in Fermont! It is the main activity of the Taïga Carnival in Fermont, held in 2 stages over a total distance of 200 km. Participants of 15 teams of 8 to 10 dogs take up the challenge in a spirit of competition and camaraderie, placing the well-being of animals at the heart of their concerns.

Through a vast territory of freedom, the impressive bond between animal, human, and nature is revealed stronger than anything.

-» Website: Taïga 200 Challenge

Bonus: When we think of Quebec winter, we think... ice rinks and hockey!

From September to March, the Baie-Comeau Drakkar presents 35 home games of its QMJHL team at the Henry-Leonard Center. The electrifying atmosphere contrasts with the cold of winter. Thrills guaranteed! Check the game schedule and support our team with family or friends!

Have fun like true North Coasters this winter by participating in the numerous events and festivals taking place all over our vast snowy territory.

From Baie-Comeau to Natashquan, passing through Fermont, you'll be charmed by the warm welcome of the organizers and volunteers who are dedicated to showing you the beauty and pleasures of our white gold.