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Calendar

When you arrive on Madelinot soil, it's not just the time that is different from mainland Québec; the calendar can be a little unbalanced too… especially since all the events and festivals typical of the Îles-de-la-Madeleine are governed by the realities of a coastal environment.

Over the years, the coming of spring and the beginning of the fishing and boating season have become rituals that both Madelinots and visitors are impatient to see. It is the same for the arrival of the harp seal herd and the changing light in March that signals the first breath of spring.

Festivals have been created around activities that combine wind, boats, salt, sand and water. Ingenious competitions are run to the music of laughter, wonder and water.

Some festivals have traditional roots. The Mi-carême (mid-Lent) Festival has been largely forgotten in the outside world, but it is still alive and well in Fatima. It enlivens mid-winter with its costumes, jigs and high-jinks and helps people survive until a long-awaited summer! Traditions can also acquire a modern look in festivals that hark back to the way things once were…

The Islands also offer gourmet events, flavourful feasts prepared with the products of our land and the sea around it.

And Madelinot cultural life has its own special events. Festivals, symposia, artistic productions, shows and all kinds of activities are all part of the picture.

In June every year, Arrimage, the cultural corporation, publishes an annual calendar of cultural and musical events (French).

Figurative painting Symposium in L'Étang-du-Nord

From July 26, 2010 to August 1, 2010

Île du Cap-aux-Meules

Local scenery as viewed by both local and off-island artists. Paintings on site, exhibitions and sale of paintings created by invited artists.

Details »

Acadian Festival

From August 1 to August 15, 2010

Île du Havre-Aubert, La Grave Historical Site

Cultural and outdoor activities in Havre-Aubert, including the Small Boat-Building Contest.

Details »

Small Boat building contest (Concours de construction de petits bateaux)

On August 7, 2010

Île du Havre-Aubert

During the Acadian Festival, come show us your naval-building talents!

Details »

Sandcastle Contest (Concours de Châteaux de sable)

From August 13 to August 15, 2010

Île du Havre-Aubert

On Havre-Aubert beach (Sandy Hook), come and build your best sandcastle.

Details »

École de hockey L'Ancrage

From August 16 to August 27, 2010

Île du Cap-aux-Meules

First rate learning environment, outstanding surroundings! Here's an idea! You explore our beautiful Islands while your children have the time of their life enjoying their favourite sport under the guidance of our experienced, committed coaches!

Details »

Country Fair

On September 5, 2010

Île du Cap-aux-Meules, Centre Alfred-Galland in Fatima

A good opportunity to discover the fresh agricultural produce from the Islands.

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Fêtes de la mer et des marins

From September 10 to September 12, 2010

Île du Havre-Aubert, La Grave Historical Site

Three days of activities and maritime celebrations at the Historical site at La Grave

Details »

2010 Festival Contes en Îles (int'l Story Telling Festival)

From September 19 to September 26, 2010

Île du Cap-aux-Meules

Artists from around the globe share their words every years with thousands of hungry ears. A unique chance to discover this ageless tradition in the middle of the Saint-Lawrence Gulf.

Details »

For more information, please contact the Tourist Information Office.