If you live in Quebec—or if you’ve ever wanted to experience the magic of a true Canadian winter—you know that the “Semaine de Relâche” (Spring Break) is the most anticipated week of the season. In 2026, the Relâche runs from March 2nd to March 6th, creating a perfect nine-day window (including the surrounding weekends) to embrace the snow, the culture, and the “joie de vivre” that only Quebec can offer.
Whether you are a local parent looking to keep the kids entertained or a traveler flying in to witness the tail end of the winter festivities, 2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year. From the glowing lights of Montreal to the historic cobblestones of Quebec City, here is everything you need to know about navigating Relâche 2026.
1. Planning Your Arrival: The Logistics of Relâche
The first thing to understand about the March Break in Quebec is that it is busy. Families from all over the province—and increasingly from Ontario and the Northeastern US—head to the major hubs.
Flying into Quebec
If you are coming from further afield, you will likely land at Montréal-Trudeau (YUL) or Jean Lesage in Quebec City (YQB). Because this is a peak travel week, prices can spike. To find the most competitive fares and perhaps snag a last-minute deal, we recommend using Aviasales.
Real-Life Example: A family of four from Vancouver decided to visit Quebec City for Relâche last year. By setting up price alerts on Aviasales three months in advance, they found a flight that was $150 cheaper per person than the standard holiday rate. That $600 savings paid for their entire week of lift tickets at Mont-Sainte-Anne!
2. Montréal en Lumière: The Crown Jewel of Relâche 2026
One of the biggest reasons to spend your 2026 March Break in Montreal is the Montréal en Lumière festival, which runs from February 27th to March 7th. It is one of the largest winter festivals in the world, combining gastronomy, outdoor fun, and stunning light installations.
The Outdoor Site (Quartier des Spectacles)
The heart of the festival is a massive outdoor playground. You can ride a giant Ferris wheel for a view of the city, slide down ice slides, or skate on the “Sentier de patin” (an elevated skating loop). The best part? Most of the outdoor activities are completely free.
Gastronomy and Nuit Blanche
For the adults, the festival features “Air France Finest Tables,” where world-class chefs collaborate with local Montreal restaurants. Don’t miss Nuit Blanche (usually the Saturday of Relâche), where the city stays open all night with art galleries, concerts, and parties.
3. Where to Stay: Finding the Perfect Base
Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your Relâche experience. In Montreal, you want to be near the Metro; in Quebec City, you want to be near the historic walls.
To browse the best hotels—from the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac to cozy boutique spots in the Plateau—we suggest using Trip.com. They often have specific “family-friendly” filters that help you find rooms with kitchenettes or indoor pools, which are lifesavers when the kids need to burn off some energy after a day in the cold.
4. Quebec City: A Winter Fairy Tale
Quebec City during Relâche is nothing short of magical. The fortifications are covered in snow, and the “Pain de Sucre” (ice cone) at Montmorency Falls is at its peak.
Village Vacances Valcartier
Just 20 minutes from the city, Valcartier is the ultimate Relâche destination. It features:
- The Winter Playground: Over 35 slides for tubing and snow rafting.
- The Bora Parc: A massive indoor waterpark kept at 30°C—perfect for when you need a break from the cold.
- The Hôtel de Glace: The only ice hotel in North America. You can tour the intricately carved suites and grab a cocktail in a glass made of ice.
Tobogganing at 1884
Located right next to the Château Frontenac on the Dufferin Terrace, this historic slide has been around since 1884. You can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h as you fly toward the St. Lawrence River. It’s a rite of passage for any child (or adult!) spending Relâche in the capital.
5. Staying Protected: Why Travel Insurance Matters in Winter
Winter activities like skiing, skating, and even walking on icy cobblestones carry a higher risk of slips and tumbles. Furthermore, March in Quebec can occasionally bring “tempêtes” (snowstorms) that can cancel flights or delay trains.
This is why we always recommend being covered. For comprehensive and affordable international travel insurance, Ekta Traveling is a fantastic choice. They cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and even lost ski equipment.
Real-Life Example: During the 2024 Relâche, a major ice storm hit the St. Lawrence Valley. Hundreds of families were stuck in hotels because the highways were closed. Those with travel insurance from providers like Ekta Traveling were able to claim their extra hotel nights and meals, turning a stressful situation into a cozy “bonus” vacation day.
6. The Sugar Shack Tradition (Cabane à Sucre)
Relâche marks the beginning of the “temps des sucres” (maple syrup season). Visiting a sugar shack is the most authentic Quebecois experience you can have in March.
What to Expect
You’ll head to a rustic cabin in the woods (often in the Laurentians or the Eastern Townships). You’ll be served a massive traditional meal: pea soup, ham, “oreilles de crisse” (fried pork rinds), omelets, and pancakes—all drenched in fresh maple syrup.
- The Highlight: “La tire sur la neige.” Boiling maple syrup is poured onto fresh snow and rolled onto a wooden stick to create a delicious, chewy taffy.
7. Mont Tremblant: The Peak of Relâche Action
If your family loves the outdoors, Mont Tremblant is the place to be from February 28 to March 7, 2026. The pedestrian village looks like a European ski town and is filled with activities for the school break.
- Circus Workshops: Look for free workshops in the Place Saint-Bernard where kids can learn juggling and acrobatics.
- Nightlife: For the teens, there are often outdoor DJ sets and dance parties under the stars.
- Skiing: With over 100 trails, Tremblant offers the best skiing in the province.
Remember to book your Tremblant lodging early on Trip.com, as this is one of the busiest weeks for the resort.
8. Dreaming of the Sea: Planning Your Post-Winter Escape
While we love the Quebec winter, by the end of Relâche, many people are ready to start thinking about the sun. If you find yourself huddled by the fireplace in a cabin in Charlevoix, dreaming of turquoise waters and warm breezes, it’s the perfect time to start planning your summer sailing adventure.
Check out Searadar to browse yacht charters and sailing experiences for the upcoming summer. Whether you want to sail the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, booking during the winter months often secures you the best “early bird” inventory.
9. Budgeting for Relâche: How to Save
Quebec’s March Break doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few “pro tips”:
- Free Museums: Many museums in Montreal and Quebec City offer special free programming or discounted family passes during Relâche.
- The Metro: In Montreal, buy an “Unlimited Weekend” or “3-Day” pass. It’s cheaper than parking and much faster.
- Pack a Picnic: Winter picnics are a thing! Grab some local cheese and a baguette from a market like Jean-Talon and enjoy it at a park warming hut.
10. Summary Checklist for Relâche 2026
- Dates: Mark your calendar for March 2–6 (and the weekends on either side).
- Transport: Secure your flights through Aviasales.
- Lodging: Use Trip.com to find hotels with indoor pools and breakfast included.
- Protection: Don’t forget your winter sports insurance via Ekta Traveling.
- Activities: Book your sugar shack and Valcartier tickets at least 2 weeks in advance.
- Future Dreams: Check Searadar if you’re already missing the ocean!
Final Thoughts
Relâche 2026 is a time to reconnect with family, embrace the beauty of the cold, and participate in traditions that have defined Quebec for centuries. Whether you are sliding down a hill in a tube or tasting maple taffy for the first time, the “Semaine de Relâche” is about making memories that will last until the snow melts—and long after.
Quebec is waiting for you with open arms and a warm cup of cocoa. We’ll see you on the slopes!
