The 2025 Festival d’été de Québec (FEQ) officially began on July 3, 2025, kicking off a 13-day celebration of music, arts, and culture in Québec City. This year’s festival is expected to draw over 1.5 million attendees, making it one of the largest cultural festivals in North America. With over 150 performances and numerous events across multiple venues, FEQ provides something for everyone, from music lovers to families seeking weekend fun.
An Eclectic Lineup of Global Stars
This year’s FEQ features a diverse roster of international headliners, including global superstars Rod Stewart, Shania Twain, Avril Lavigne, and Hozier, as well as hot emerging talents like Ice Spice, Benson Boone, and newcomer Benson Boone. The festival’s programming spans a variety of genres, from rock and pop to folk, hip-hop, and electronic music, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste.
Rod Stewart, an enduring legend of rock, will take the stage to perform his iconic hits like Maggie May, Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?, and I Don’t Want to Talk About It. Meanwhile, Shania Twain, the Queen of Country Pop, is set to bring her infectious energy and timeless anthems to the crowd, including favorites like Man! I Feel Like a Woman! and You’re Still the One.
In addition to these global stars, the festival also places a significant focus on local talent, with a variety of French-Canadian performers celebrating the region’s rich cultural heritage. The infusion of both international and homegrown artists makes the FEQ a truly global cultural event.
An Unmatched Experience in a UNESCO World Heritage City
Québec City’s rich history and stunning architecture provide the perfect backdrop for the festival. Performances are held at the Bell Stage, located on the historic Plains of Abraham, a site that has witnessed significant events in Canada’s history. With stunning views of the St. Lawrence River, the festival-goers are treated to world-class performances in one of the most scenic settings imaginable.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, the festival also hosts smaller, late-night performances at various venues, including the Voltigeurs de Québec Armoury. These shows provide an up-close and personal connection with emerging artists and are a popular highlight of the festival.
Family-Friendly Fun and Community Engagement
In addition to the main musical performances, the FEQ offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including interactive art installations, food trucks, and pop-up markets. For younger audiences, there are also daytime events, such as family concerts and educational workshops, allowing children and families to explore the arts together.
The FEQ also emphasizes sustainability and community engagement, with efforts to minimize the festival’s environmental impact through waste-reduction initiatives and green energy use. The organizers have worked hard to create a space where music and culture thrive, while also contributing to a healthier planet.
A Memorable Cultural Celebration
Festival d’été de Québec is more than just a music festival—it is a celebration of cultural diversity, community, and the arts. It fosters an environment where people from all walks of life come together to experience something truly unique. For both locals and tourists, it offers an unforgettable experience, from world-class performances to exploring the vibrant streets of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Whether you’re enjoying a stunning sunset concert on the Plains of Abraham or discovering new artists in intimate venues, FEQ continues to be one of the most exciting and inclusive cultural festivals in North America.