What to Do During Labour Day Long Weekend in Quebec? (7 Activities)

Just north of Montreal, Laval is a favourite getaway for those wanting to escape the city without going too far. Known for its green spaces, peaceful rivers, and outdoor activities, Laval strikes a great balance between nature and convenience.

One activity that truly stands out during the summer months: the floating BBQ. Yes, you read that right! In Laval, you can grill and chill on the water along the Mille-Îles River.

What to Expect?

You’ll board a circular, donut-shaped boat that fits up to six people. Some boats are equipped with a charcoal BBQ, while others feature a central cooler for your drinks.

You can choose between two options: bring your own food and become captain of the grill, or book a package that includes a fully prepared meal. Menu choices range from classic skewers to gourmet options like lobster or salmon.

Then enjoy 3 to 5 hours of self-guided cruising through beautiful natural surroundings, accompanied by birdsong and calm waters.

It’s a fun and unique activity for families, couples, or groups of friends, and it’s become a must-do over Labour Day weekend. However, advanced booking is strongly recommended as spots fill up quickly during this popular holiday.

Nestled in the heart of the Laurentians, about 1.5 hours from Montreal, the Mont-Tremblant region is famous for its mountains, lakes, and outdoor adventures. During the Labour Day long weekend, it becomes the perfect playground for late-summer thrills.

One of the most exciting experiences you can have here is whitewater rafting on the Rouge River, known for its intensity and raw natural beauty.

What to Expect

Your adventure begins at the Rouge River basecamp, just over an hour’s drive from Tremblant village. There, professional guides provide all necessary gear, helmet, paddle, life jacket, and wetsuit if needed, along with a thorough safety briefing. 

Then it’s time to board a raft with your team and take on the class 3 and 4 rapids over a stretch of up to 16 km. Calmer sections in between let you float, swim, or simply admire the wild, forested scenery. You can choose from a few different packages, depending on your preferences and experience:

• Express Rafting (Half-Day): About two hours on the water, a great adrenaline fix in less time.

• Full-Day Rafting: Includes two runs, a riverside lunch, and even dinner back at camp.

Family Rafting: A gentler version suitable for kids aged 6 and up, perfect for a safe and fun intro to rafting. After your run, relax and share stories at the camp’s facilities: pool, hot tub, showers, bar, and picnic area, all in a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

Quebec City is where history meets European charm, cobblestone streets, UNESCO-listed fortifications, and breathtaking river views. Its unique blend of architecture, warmth, and nature makes it an ideal destination for a Labour Day weekend escape. 

For a fun and effortless way to see the best of the city, an electric bike tour is the perfect option, especially if you want to explore a lot without getting too tired.

What to Expect

The guided e-bike tour lasts around three hours and covers nearly 20 km. You’ll join a small group led by a passionate local guide who’ll take you through Quebec’s most iconic neighbourhoods, from the Old Port to the Plains of Abraham, past Château Frontenac, the city walls, and the Samuel-de-Champlain Promenade. 

The e-bike makes uphill climbs in Upper Town a breeze, so no need to be a pro cyclist. Just pedal lightly and let the motor do the work, it’s the perfect balance of gentle activity, urban touring, and eco-friendliness. 

Whether with family, friends, or as a couple, this is a refreshing and original way to (re)discover Quebec, with the wind at your back, quite literally!

Located in the heart of the Eastern Townships, the town of Magog is known for its welcoming atmosphere and stunning scenery. Bordered by Lake Memphremagog and surrounded by mountains, it’s the perfect setting for a late-summer getaway.

Each year, Magog hosts La Fête des Vendanges, a signature event celebrating Quebec’s local producers, wineries, and the joy of good food.

The festival spans two consecutive weekends: last weekend of August and first weekend of September (Labour Day).

What to Expect

Held at Pointe Merry Park, right along the lake, the Wine Harvest Festival spans two weekends around Labour Day. Visitors can explore more than 75 exhibitors including winemakers, microbreweries, distilleries, cheesemakers, bakers, chocolatiers, and other local food artisans. The festival features:

• Tastings of local wines, ciders and spirits, accompanied by gourmet bites.

• Culinary demonstrations, interactive workshops and lectures by passionate experts.

• A varied musical program, with local artists performing throughout the day.

• An SAQ Bistro area for relaxing, as well as a picnic area overlooking the lake.

• Activities for children, making the event accessible to the whole family.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, foodie, or simply looking for a great day out in a beautiful setting, the Magog Wine Festival has something for everyone.

Towering over Old Quebec from the Dufferin Terrace, the Château Frontenac is one of the most iconic buildings in Canada. Built in 1893 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, this castle-like hotel was inspired by French Renaissance architecture and is now a National Historic Site. 

It has hosted many notable figures, including Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt, particularly during the Quebec Conference in World War II. Today, while still a luxury hotel, it also welcomes curious visitors through guided tours.

What to Expect

The tour lasts about one hour and usually starts outside, on Dufferin Terrace, where your guide will set the stage with stories about the hotel’s history and design. You’ll then head inside to explore key spaces: the elegant lobby, historic reception halls, the Champlain Restaurant, and sometimes even private event rooms. 

The guides, often bilingual, make the visit lively and informative, full of fun facts, unique architecture, and stories of the famous guests who’ve stayed within these walls. It’s a cultural experience that’s both accessible and enriching, helping visitors appreciate the Château’s place in Quebec’s heritage. 

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially over busy weekends like Labour Day. Some areas may be closed due to private events, but rain or shine, it’s well worth the visit, especially for history buffs and lovers of iconic places.

If you’re planning on visiting the beautiful region of Charlevoix, make sure to go to Tadoussac, a small village where the Saguenay Fjord meets the St. Lawrence River, one of the best whale-watching spots in the world. With dramatic cliffs, salty sea air, and lush boreal forests, this iconic destination in maritime Quebec offers a breathtaking setting. 

Rich in history and natural beauty, Tadoussac draws visitors for its charm, and its proximity to incredible marine life. It’s a perfect nature-focused weekend escape far from the city’s hustle.

What to Expect

Whale watching cruises are the must-do activity in Tadoussac. Available from May to October, they are especially popular around Labour Day, when several species are still active in the area’s cold waters. You can choose between large observation boats or smaller, more thrilling zodiacs.

Observation boats offer comfort and stability, with indoor spaces, decks, and sometimes food and drink options. 

Zodiacs are faster, more immersive, and closer to the water, great for adventure seekers. Be sure to dress warmly and waterproof, regardless of vessel. Tours last between 2 and 3 hours, led by naturalist guides who share insights on marine species and ecosystems. 

You might see belugas, minke whales, and even humpbacks. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, the surrounding landscapes, fjords, cliffs, and open skies, are unforgettable in themselves. It’s an emotional and educational experience, ideal for those seeking a truly unique moment in nature over the long weekend.

Travel Outside of Peak Hours

To make your trip smoother during weekends and holidays, it’s best to plan your departure for either early in the morning or late in the evening. Ideally, aim to be on the road before 6 a.m. or after 8 p.m. to avoid the worst of the traffic. 

If your schedule allows, consider leaving a day earlier or coming back a day later, as this can help you skip peak congestion altogether. It’s also wise to check traffic trends for your specific route, especially on long weekends in May and September, when highways tend to be busiest. 

Keep in mind that Fridays and Mondays are typically high-traffic days, so adjusting your travel time can make a big difference. Avoiding rush hours, particularly during summer holiday weekends, can save you time and reduce stress. 

Choose Alternative Routes

When planning your route, consider exploring local roads and secondary highways as alternatives to the main thoroughfares. These options can not only help you avoid traffic but also provide a more enjoyable and scenic drive. 

In fact, scenic byways often offer a refreshing change of pace and a chance to discover hidden gems along the way.

To navigate efficiently, use navigation apps to identify the best routes around busy city centres. You might also consider driving through smaller towns, which can be less congested and more charming. 

Extend or Shift Your Stay

If your schedule allows, consider adding an extra day to your trip so you can travel during off-peak times. Arriving a day early or leaving a day later can help you avoid the heaviest traffic, especially around busy holiday weekends.

To make the most of the extra time, look for local events or activities that might make the extended stay even more enjoyable. Many accommodations also offer discounts for longer stays, so it’s worth checking if you can save by booking an extra night. Use this additional time to plan fun family activities or to explore parts of the region you might otherwise miss. In some cases, you may even want to shift your entire vacation to avoid popular travel periods altogether.

Researching local festivals, markets, or seasonal events can also add value to your stay and make it feel more special. Plus, by visiting major attractions on non-peak days, you’ll enjoy shorter lines, less crowded spaces, and a much more relaxed experience overall.

Travel at Night or Early Morning

If you're comfortable with driving at night, hitting the road between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. can help you avoid most traffic and enjoy the lightest road conditions. To stay alert during overnight drives, be sure to pack take regular breaks to prevent fatigue. Another great strategy is to start your journey just before sunrise, giving you a solid head start on daytime travellers while still benefiting from quieter roads.

For night travel, plan your route around well-lit rest stops to prioritize safety and comfort. Before leaving, it’s also important to check for any overnight construction or road closures, which are common during less busy hours.

If you're travelling with kids, make early morning departures more comfortable by bringing pillows, blankets, or even eye masks to help them sleep. Finally, stay extra alert for wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk, when animals are more active and visibility may be lower.