For families across the province of Quebec, there is one week that stands out on the calendar with more anticipation than almost any other: the Semaine de Relâche. In 2026, this glorious mid-winter break is scheduled to take place from March 2nd to March 6th.
While it is technically a “school break,” for most Quebecers, it is a cultural event. It’s the time when we finally lean into the end of winter, celebrate the return of the sun, and find every possible way to keep the kids entertained—whether that’s through a snowy adventure in the Laurentians or a sun-drenched escape to the Caribbean.
In this massive 2026 guide, we are going to break down how to plan the perfect Relâche. We will cover the best local festivals, the logistics of flying out of the province, where to stay, and how to ensure your family is protected during the busy travel season.
1. Understanding the 2026 Relâche Timeline
In 2026, the official school break for most Quebec school boards runs the first full week of March. However, many families start their vacation on the Friday evening of February 27th and don’t return until Sunday, March 8th.
Why the Timing Matters
Because the entire province goes on holiday at the exact same time, demand for everything—from hotel rooms in Mont-Tremblant to flights to Florida—skyrockets. Planning for Semaine de Relâche 2026 requires a “bird’s eye view” of your budget and your schedule at least six months in advance.
2. Flying Out: Escaping the Quebec Cold
By early March, many Quebecers have reached their limit with the snow and ice. The “Relâche flight” is a tradition for thousands. Popular destinations include Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and the ever-popular Florida.
Finding Affordable Fares
Flights out of Montréal-Trudeau (YUL) during this specific week are notorious for being the most expensive of the year. To beat the algorithm, you need a powerful search tool. We recommend using Aviasales. Their platform allows you to compare departures from YUL versus nearby hubs like Ottawa (YOW) or even Plattsburgh (PBG), which can sometimes save a family of four over $1,000.
Real-Life Example: A family from Brossard wanted to visit Disney World for Relâche. By using Aviasales, they discovered that flying out on the Thursday before the break instead of the Saturday saved them enough money to upgrade their park passes to “Park Hoppers” for the entire week!
3. Staying Local: The Best of Montreal and Quebec City
If you decide to stay in the province, you are in for a treat. Quebec transforms into a giant playground during the first week of March.
Montréal en Lumière
Montreal hosts its signature winter festival, Montréal en Lumière, during this time. The “Quartier des Spectacles” becomes a glowing wonderland. You can skate on an illuminated trail, ride a Ferris wheel with a view of the skyline, and enjoy free outdoor concerts.
The Historic Charm of Quebec City
Quebec City is arguably the most beautiful winter city in North America. During Relâche, the Plains of Abraham offer cross-country skiing and snowshoeing right in the heart of the city. For a bit of history, take the kids to the Musée de la Civilisation, which always puts on special workshops for the March Break.
To find the best central hotels that won’t require a 30-minute trek in the snow, check out Trip.com. They have excellent deals on family suites in Old Quebec and the Downtown Montreal core.
4. The “Sugar Shack” Tradition: A Sweet Start to Spring
You cannot celebrate the Semaine de Relâche without a trip to a Cabane à Sucre (Sugar Shack). As the days get longer and the nights remain cold, the maple sap begins to flow.
A Detailed Experience
A visit to the sugar shack is a multi-sensory experience. It starts with the smell of woodsmoke and boiling syrup. You sit at long communal tables and eat traditional dishes like pea soup, meat pie (tourtière), and “oreilles de crisse.”
The grand finale is always the “tire sur la neige”—hot maple syrup poured onto fresh white snow and rolled onto a wooden stick. It is the literal taste of a Quebec spring.
5. Travel Insurance: Why It’s Non-Negotiable in March
Winter travel in Quebec is unpredictable. A “tempête” (snowstorm) can ground flights at YUL for 24 hours, or an icy sidewalk can lead to a sprained ankle. If you are traveling outside of the province—or even just far from home within Canada—insurance is your most important document.
We highly recommend Ekta Traveling. Their international travel insurance is perfect for families because it covers the “big things” like emergency medical care and the “frustrating things” like trip delays and lost luggage.
Real-Life Example: In a previous Relâche, a massive ice storm caused a power outage at a major resort. Families who had booked via platforms like Trip.com and had insurance through Ekta Traveling were able to get reimbursed for their interrupted stay and find alternative accommodation immediately, while others were left searching for answers in the dark.
6. Adventure in the Laurentians and Eastern Townships
For many, Relâche is synonymous with skiing. Quebec’s “Big Three” regions—the Laurentians, the Eastern Townships, and the Charlevoix region—are at their peak in March.
- Mont Tremblant: The most famous resort in Eastern Canada. It offers a pedestrian village that feels like Switzerland.
- Bromont: Perfect for night skiing. They often have special “Nuits Blanches” where you can ski until the early hours of the morning.
- Le Massif: Offers the highest vertical drop in the East and a stunning view of the St. Lawrence River.
Pro Tip: Lift tickets are cheaper when bought in advance online. Use the money you save on tickets to book a higher-quality lodge via Trip.com.
7. Thinking Ahead: The Summer Sailing Dream
By the middle of the Semaine de Relâche, even the most hardcore winter lovers start to miss the open water. While you’re enjoying the snow, it’s actually the best time to plan your summer vacation.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a sailing trip—perhaps in the Mediterranean or around the islands of the Caribbean—check out Searadar. They specialize in yacht charters and sailing boats. Booking your summer boat during the March Break often ensures you get the best “Early Bird” pricing and the pick of the newest vessels.
8. Indoor Fun: For the Chilly Days
Sometimes, the Quebec winter is just too cold, even for the most resilient kids. Thankfully, the province has invested heavily in indoor entertainment.
Bora Parc (Valcartier)
Located just outside Quebec City, this is a massive indoor waterpark kept at a tropical 30°C. You can surf on an indoor wave, float down a lazy river, and pretend the snow outside doesn’t exist.
IloYou and Science Centres
Montreal’s Science Centre in the Old Port is a Relâche staple. They host IMAX films and interactive exhibits that make learning feel like a day at the park.
9. Budgeting for Relâche 2026: Tips for Parents
Relâche can get expensive, but it doesn’t have to be.
- Free Programming: Cities like Montreal, Laval, and Longueuil offer hundreds of free library activities, puppet shows, and public skating sessions during the break.
- Public Transit: During Relâche, some transit authorities offer “Kids Ride Free” programs.
- Meal Prep: If you’re booking a condo or a suite through Trip.com, choose one with a kitchen. Eating breakfast and dinner at “home” can save a family hundreds of dollars over the week.
10. Summary Checklist for Your 2026 Relâche
- Finalize Dates: Confirm your time off for March 2–6, 2026.
- Book Flights: Use Aviasales for the best international or domestic rates.
- Secure a Room: Find family-friendly lodging on Trip.com.
- Get Insured: Protect your trip with Ekta Traveling.
- Plan a Summer Escape: Browse Searadar to give yourself something to look forward to when the snow melts!
- Buy Maple Syrup: Visit a sugar shack and support local producers!
Final Thoughts
The Semaine de Relâche 2026 is more than just a break from school; it’s a celebration of the unique spirit of Quebec. It’s about the contrast between the cold air and the warm maple syrup, the white snow and the blue Caribbean water, the quiet of the woods and the lights of the city.
By planning early and using the right tools, you can ensure that your 2026 March Break is stress-free, budget-friendly, and filled with memories that will last a lifetime.
