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Credit: Guy Lessard
Cradle of French civilization in America
Francophone Culture
A bastion of French language in the Americas
Francophone culture, which arrived with the first French settlers and survived the era of British rule, is still very much alive in the Québec City region. Sharing many characteristics with the French culture—particularly the predominance of the French language—the people of Québec City have forged their own identity. They are known for their “joie de vivre,” colourful French accents, culinary traditions, and the warm welcome they extend to visitors.
Here are 4 ways to enjoy Francophone culture in the Québec City region:
1 Visit Attractions that Celebrate the French Language
Several attractions in the Québec City region showcase Francophone culture. Among the many places to visit, francophiles are sure to enjoy:
- Musée de l'Amérique francophone: To learn more about the history of francophone culture in the Americas and around the world
- Maison de la littérature: For a free exhibit on Québec’s literary heritage
- Centre de valorisation du patrimoine vivant: To discover the traditions that helped forge Québec’s identity (song, dance, storytelling, handcrafts, and more)
- Espace Félix-Leclerc: To trace the path of one of the greatest francophone poets—a proud resident of the Québec City region
2 Dive Right into Francophone Culture During one of the Many Festivals
One of the best ways to share in Québec City’s “joie de vivre” is to join locals during one of the many festivals and events throughout the year. Some of them are specifically focused on our francophone roots:
- The New France Festival is an event that brings the history of America’s first European settlers to life with ongoing activities in the streets of Québec City
- Attend unique and audacious literary events during Festival Québec en toutes lettres
3 Experience True French Immersion
Québec City offers a 100% francophone environment and is the ideal Canadian destination for learning French as a second language! These language schools combine French courses with an unforgettable cultural experience:
- École Edu-inter offers French programs for adults and teens that include cultural and sports activities
- École Québec Monde offers a personalized approach in a Québécois environment, as well as distance education courses
4 Track Down your Ancestors
Starting in 1608, the Québec City region was the port of entry for many French families who went on to settle throughout North America. Descendants of the first families to come to Québec City and its environs can find genealogical records in the following places:
- Maison de nos Aïeux on Île d’Orléans offers reference tools with information on the founding families of one of the first areas to be settled in New France
- The Château-Richer’s genealogical centre has tools that allow visitors to map out their family tree
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French— a Source of Pride in Québec City!
A cultural and geographic crossroads, Québec City is like a bridge between Europe and the Americas and is a steadfast guardian of the French language in the New World.
A francophone network
Along with two other francophone cities, the City of Québec had the idea of creating the Francophone and Francophile Cities Network, a platform showcasing the tourist, geographic, and historical attractions of key cities with ties to French culture in the Americas.
Learn more about the Network and participating cities (French only)
Québec City, accent d’Amérique
A distinctive feature of the French language, the accent imbues a vowel with character, much as it affirms our collective identity. Which is why Québec City has adopted the accent as a symbol—one that expresses our unique history and modernity.
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