Want to see Quebec while enjoying local products? All summer long, the whole of Quebec celebrates its homegrown flavours with a variety of food and drink festivals and and events. On the menu, expect a host of great local products, with local artisans and producers, and a generous portion of fun. In a festive atmosphere, enjoy childhood classics, events with a historical side, or some new finds to take home that are sure to steal the show at your next barbecue with friends!

Here are some suggestions to whet your appetite.

That distinctive taste of Quebec

Some cities and regions are so proud of their local specialties and attractions that they have made them the highlight of the show! From May to September, the Grand Poutinefest will be touring Quebec. The Festival de la poutine (August 25 to 27, Drummondville) also pays tribute to this classic Quebec dish.

In July, head over to the Gib Fest (July 1 to 31, Thursday to Sunday, in Sorel-Tracy), to taste the legendary gibelotte des îles de Sorel – a sort of bouillabaisse with vegetables and fish created almost 100 years ago.

In Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, the Festival de la gourgane (July 28 to 31, in Albanel) puts the spotlight on this bean that is typical of the region but forever overshadowed by the illustrious blueberry!

Next, head over to the Festival du cochon de Sainte-Perpétue (August 4 to 7) to take part in plenty of wild activities and taste succulent dishes featuring (you guessed it) pork!

See more foodie events.

Trade shows and fairs

Agricultural fairs and exhibitions were originally created to reward farmers at an annual popular gathering. In the past, they were also used to market livestock and agricultural products. Today, this long-standing tradition lives on purely as entertainment. Agricultural merit contests, animal parades and demonstrations of farming tools are always part of the celebration, but today, the fairs also includes rides, games of skill and a host of other activities for the whole family!

Held for the first time in 1837, the Saint-Hyacinthe Agricultural Fair (July 28 to August 6) is the largest and oldest agricultural fair in Quebec, but there are similar events all over the province, from Chicoutimi (July 27 to 31) to the Beauce (August 10 to 14) to Brome (September 2 to 5) and everywhere else where agriculture is present. So in short, everywhere, period!

Discover more trade shows and fairs.

Have a good trip, and above all, bon appétit!