There’s absolutely no need to limit yourself to large urban centres if you’re passionate about culture! Québec has many municipalities of all sizes where the arts, history, and community life are an integral part of daily life.
Here are a few examples.
Kamouraska (Bas-Saint-Laurent)
This picturesque village in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region attracts writers, artists and craftspeople alike (the municipality’s website even highlights certain local artists). Many galleries, literary cafés, and events enliven local life. Kamouraska also actively promotes its heritage with historical exhibitions and talking tours.
Baie-Saint-Paul (Charlevoix)
This charming town is renowned as a visual arts hotspot in Québec. It hosts numerous art galleries, artists in residence, and, every summer, the Festif!, a street and eclectic music festival that attracts celebrated artists. There must in fact be something in the water, because this is also where the Cirque du Soleil was born! Wow!
Sutton (Eastern Townships)
Sutton is the perfect blend of nature and culture. It’s home to many arts events, like Arts Sutton, a dynamic contemporary art gallery, as well as classical and jazz music festivals. Furthermore, this municipality’s cultural scene is supported by its residents’ active involvement and strong community spirit.
Saint-Jean-Port-Joli (Chaudière-Appalaches)
This municipality is famous for its sculptors and its attachment to its heritage. Each year, it organizes the La Biennale de sculpture de Saint-Jean-Port-Joli, an international event. The Festival des chants de marins and many artists workshop also take place here.
Val-David (Laurentides)
This small but very active municipality is a true artistic hub. It hosts a wide range of open workshops, crafts markets, and the well-known 1001 pots, a summer ceramics-focused event. Plus, cultural activities are organized all year long thanks to local initiatives.
Tadoussac (Côte-Nord)
In addition to its breathtaking landscapes, Tadoussac is also home to a rich cultural scene, namely with the Festival de la chanson de Tadoussac, one of the oldest French music festivals in Canada. Its small size certainly doesn’t dampen its ambition, with a program that includes music, poetry, and theatre. There are historic sites to visit too, like the “Chapelle des indiens” built in 1747, and activities to discover during the Journées de la culture in September.
Wakefield (Outaouais)
This French- and English-speaking village north of Gatineau has a unique bohemian atmosphere. The Black Sheep Inn, a legendary performance venue, hosts emerging and established artists, as well as storytelling, film, and visual arts festivals. As a resident, you will have the opportunity to be part of a tight-knit community!
L’Islet (Chaudière-Appalaches)
Nestled on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, L’Islet is rich in maritime history and heritage. It’s home to the Musée maritime du Québec, regularly organizes cultural events in its heritage sites, and actively supports local artists with exhibitions, concerts and community workshops.
Carleton-sur-Mer (Gaspésie)
Its waterfront views are far from being its only attraction! This gem of the Gaspésie region is likewise famous for its cultural vitality. The Théâtre à Bout Portant, the Virée trad festival (of traditional Gaspé arts and culture), as well as its local music scene are proof of this community’s attachment to culture. This municipality is also home to several visual artists and artists in residence.
Knowlton (Lac-Brome, Eastern Townships)
This French- and English-speaking village with Victorian charm inspires writers and literature lovers alike. It hosts, for example, the Knowlton Literary Festival, puts on plays in the lovely Théâtre Lac-Brome, and boasts renowned galleries and antique dealers.
These small municipalities prove that culture isn’t restricted to big cities. Whether it’s contemporary art, music, heritage, or crafts, these communities offer a more laid-back but just as stimulating lifestyle for the creative and curious at heart.
