All Release - Quebec City Tourism

The rediscovered colony: a section of our history revealed!

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/05/01

The Rediscovered Colony: a Section of Our History Revealed!

The discovery of a sherd of Renaissance Italian porcelain on the Cap Rouge promontory in 2005 created a wave of excitement. Archaeological excavations quickly confirmed beyond a shadow of a doubt that we had rediscovered the mid-16th century French colony that was the first in the Americas. The Rediscovered Colony, presented at Musée de l’Amérique francophone, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this artifact together with some one hundred of the most important findings from the dig. A Commission de la capitale nationale/Musée de la civilisation coproduction. In partnership with Hôtel Château Laurier, official hotel of Musée de l’Amérique française.

The artifacts come to life in a radical new staging that turns conventional archaeological display on its ear to redraw the boundaries of our shared history. This first European colony north of Mexico was long considered an abject failure, but new research reveals it in a new light—as a first step in the establishment of a permanent French settlement in North America, 60 years before Champlain.

Executive director of Les Musées de la civilisation Michel Côté noted that “a fundamental aspect of Les Musées de la civilisation’s pursuit of its cultural calling for 25 years has been our constant concern with enhancing our understanding and reaching out to as many people as possible. This coproduction fits our focus perfectly because it sheds new light on a critical yet forgotten part of our history, as well as upsetting certain received historical notions. We owe this new perspective,” he added, “to the patience and perseverance of archaeologists and researchers supported by experts from Centre de conservation du Québec.”

Commission de la capitale nationale du Québec executive director Françoise Mercure pronounced herself thrilled by “this magnificent exhibition, a fitting conclusion to the thousands of hours spent bringing this little-known episode of our history to light, following three seasons of intensive excavations and six years of research by experts from more than 20 different scientific disciplines. For the Commission, it was critical that the huge advances in our understanding of the Cap Rouge archaeological site be shared with the general public.”

Tell me a NEW story

Visitors entering the exhibition are confronted with the story that history textbooks and teachers have always told: Jacques Cartier—a national hero! In his two voyages in 1534 and 1535, he claimed this land for the King of France and thus became THE MAN WHO DISCOVERED CANADA!

Historians have however been less forthcoming about the 1541 expedition to build a permanent settlement in Canada. Yet a settlement was duly built on the Cap Rouge promontory—the land shows signs of it, and its existence was confirmed in 2005 with the discovery of a tiny sherd of Italian porcelain.

To get into the spirit of it all, we go back to the height of the Renaissance in all its splendor—and its territorial wars. Like Spain and Portugal, France sought to expand and grow wealthy off the “New World” while perhaps, with luck, finding the fabled passage to India. Doing so however would mean securing a permanent foothold in the Americas—a major colonial undertaking. Thus in the fall of 1540 King Francis I officially commissioned Jean-François de La Rocque de Roberval, a military officer of noble birth and fortifications expert, to take charge of the effort. Jacques Cartier too would go along—a skilled navigator would be needed.

As you enter the exhibition, a sound shower plunges you into the tumult of embarkation in Saint Malo. Cartier’s ships set sail in the spring of 1541, with Roberval’s ships following a year later.

A big surprise awaited Roberval on arriving in Newfoundland in mid-June: Cartier’s fleet was heading back to Europe. Cartier hastened to inform him of deteriorating relations with the Stadaconans and showed off his holds packed with precious stones and metals found near the fort. On examining them, Roberval accepted the story but still ordered Cartier to turn round. However, under cover of night, Cartier fled with his five ships back to Brittany.

Undaunted, Roberval pursued his mission with the 200-odd people he had. He set up shop on the Cap Rouge promontory where Cartier had started building. The adventure would last just over a year before war with Spain—now allied with England—was rekindled in 1543 and Francis I called off the colonial experiment in Canada.

Artifacts attesting to life on the Cap Rouge promontory

Men, women, nobles, commoners, soldiers, tradespeople, and prisoners were part of a microcosm of French society with its characteristic social divisions—in the heart of the woods. Artifacts found on the site bear eloquent witness to their lives. There are sherds of glass, tool handles, silver-plated buttons, and beadwork on clothing showing the wearer’s rank, while the surprising discovery of fragments of a chain-mail coat remind us of the military side of the colony and its soldiers. A playing piece for checkers or tricktrack (an ancestor of backgammon) show that the colonists found time to play games among their many pursuits.

There are signs that the colonists bartered with the locals, relations having improved significantly under Roberval. The French offered small items such as rings and fishhooks, probably in exchange for the Stadaconans’ food, as attested by sherds of vases with Iroquoian motifs and kernels of corn found in European-built buildings.

Arson or accidental fire?

The thick fire layer found at the archaeological site proves that the colonial buildings were destroyed by fire. The cause of the fire, whether arson or an accident, remains a mystery. Although it destroyed the settlement, the fire also helped preserve—sometimes miraculously—many vestiges of the Cap Rouge colony.

Over 6,000 artifacts

The archaeological work at the Cartier-Roberval site has uncovered over 6,000 artifacts. However, the original purpose of hundreds of them remains unknown—they are so fragmentary that we can’t reconstruct their original shape. Also, many objects are conspicuous by their absence, including all the material culture associated with everyday people. All in all, although this research has provided better documentation than ever before of what life in the colony was like, it has also raised questions about objects that are fragmented, unexplained, or, mysteriously, not there at all.

An accompanying book, La Rumeur dorée

La rumeur dorée. Roberval et l’Amérique, by historian Bernard Allaire, paints a detailed portrait of Jean-François de la Rocque de Roberval and the background against which this little-known but key figure presided over the fate of the first French colony in the Americas. The book, copublished by Commission de la capitale nationale du Québec and Les Éditions La Presse, is available at the bookshops of Musée de l’Amérique française and Musée de la civilisation for $34.95.

Cartier-Roberval site tours in August

To make your experience of the exhibition complete, guided tours of the Cap Rouge site with an archaeologist are available all through the month of August, which has been officially declared Québec Archaeo Month. To find out what’s beneath the archaeological adventure, how artifacts are restored, and the passion that has driven the project for 8 years, visit www.mcq.org/lacolonie.com

The Rediscovered Colony at Musée de l’Amérique francophone, a fascinating piece of history finally revealed. Don’t miss it!

Information: 418-643-2158/1-866-710-8031

Media relations:

National: Agnès Dufour, 418-528-2358, adufour@mcq.org

Festival d'opéra 2013 Opera everywhere and for everyone

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/04/30

Festival d'opéra 2013

Opera everywhere and for everyone

Québec, Tuesday April 30, 2013 – This morning at the Grand Théâtre de Québec, Gaston Déry, President of the Opéra de Québec and Vice-President, Sustainable Development at Roche Ltd. Consulting Group, along with Grégoire Legendre, General and Artistic Director of the Opéra de Québec, unveiled the line-up for the third edition of the Festival d'opéra de Québec which will take place from July 24 to August 5.

The 2013 program further demonstrates the desire of the Opéra de Québec to celebrate every possible expression of opera for all types of audiences by presenting both more traditional and not so traditional activities.

A spectacular presentation: La Damnation de Faust

Having already demonstrated the ability to attract major international productions in the past, the Festival d'opéra will present La Damnation de Faust, which was a success in New York, Paris and Tokyo. This collaboration with Ex Machina, staged by Robert Lepage and directed by Giuseppe Grazioli, will be performed on July 25 (8:00 p.m.), 27 (2:00 p.m.), 29 and 31 (8:00 p.m.) in the Louis-Fréchette Hall at the Grand Théâtre de Québec. An all-Canadian cast will be featured with the magnificent mezzo-soprano Julie Boulianne (Marguerite), the tenor Gordon Gietz (Faust), the bass-baritone Alexandre Sylvestre (Brander) and the bass John Relyea (Mephistopheles) who reprises the role he played successfully at the MET.

With the Choeur de l'Opéra de Québec and the Orchestre symphonique de Québec

Original French Version

Powder Her Face : A biting, funny and touching fantaisie

The second major summer production is the first opera by Thomas Adès, who bowled us over last year with The Tempest. Presented at the Capitole de Québec on August 1, 3 and 5 at 8:00 p.m., Powder Her Face is the fascinating story about the decadent antics of the woman who became known as the "Dirty Duchess", a half-comic, half-tragic character who caused a scandal during the 1960s in England. In Jay Scheib's almost irreverent staging and directed by Jonathan Stockhammer, the opera comes to us directly from the New York City Opera where it was staged last winter with the same cast, including the mezzo-soprano Allison Cook in the lead role, the soprano Nili Riemer, the tenor William Ferguson and the bass Matt Boehler.

Original English Version with English Surtitles

Opera in non-traditional formats

Since the Festival d'opéra is an ideal opportunity to reinvent the opera genre, the 2013 edition will stand out for an association with the Grands Feux Loto-Québec whose opening festivities will combine excerpts of well-known operas with a display of fireworks. The activity is free on top of being visible from both shores of the Saint Lawrence and will take place at the Vieux-port of Québec on Saturday August 3, at 10:30 p.m. La Brigade lyrique will welcome people to the Vieux-port of Québec beginning at 10:00 p.m.

The next day, August 4 at 8:00 p.m., a trio composed of the Ensemble Quartango, the soprano Marie-Josée Lord and the Argentine dancers Roxana and Fabian Belmonte will meet at the Capitole de Québec to present an impressive performance combining the heat and sensuality of the tango with the depth of the opera.

As well, also new this year, Vincent Karche from France will import his European concept that combines outdoor hikes and vocal performances: the Randolyriques. A university professor, forest engineer, naturalised Huron and tenor who has performed on the most prestigious stages in Europe, the fascinating Vincent Karche was able to combine his passion for singing and for nature. The Randolyriques will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on July 24, 25, 27 and 28 on the Plains of Abraham, as well as on July 30, 31 and August 2, 3 at the Huron site of Tsonontwan.

Festival-goers are invited to the Apéro-concert: Paris en scène, as part of the Musée de la civilisation's exhibition entitled "Paris en scène 1889-1914" at the Chapelle at the Musée de l'Amérique francophone, July 28, 29 and 30 at 4:00 p.m. It will be the perfect opportunity to have a drink while the soprano Sylvie Malenfant and the tenor Marc Duguay entertain with songs from the Belle Epoque repertoire.

La Brigade lyrique and Music Al Fresco

For the third consecutive year, outdoor concerts throughout Québec City will be on the agenda this summer. Coproduced with the Société du Palais Montcalm and in collaboration with the Mesure Première Ovation, the Brigade lyrique will visit the main public spaces and parks in Québec City to give special performances at no cost from July 24 to 28 and from July 31 to August 4 at 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. The brigade will include Judith Bouchard, Marie-Michèle Roberge, Keven Geddes and Dominique Veilleux.

And last but not least, the Music Al Fresco series will take place in the municipalities of Sainte-Foy and Beauport on Tuesday July 30, first at 12:00 p.m. at the Maison Hamel-Bruneau, and then at 7:30 p.m. at the Saint-Louis-de-Courville church.

All of the program details and the schedule of events are available at www.festivaloperaquebec.com. Tickets are available at the Opéra de Québec ticket office at 418 529-0688 or 1 877 643-8131.

Paul McCartney is coming back to Québec City!

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/04/25

Press release

For immediate release

PAUL MCCARTNEY IS COMING BACK TO QUEBEC CITY!

Quebec City, April 25, 2013 – Five years almost to the day from his historic first concert here,

Paul McCartney is back! He'll be playing the Plains of Abraham on July 23. Touched by the

reception he got in 2008, in what was 'a night to remember' for everyone who had the chance to

be there, Paul quickly got behind the idea of bringing Québec audiences his new production, "Out

There".

"We can say that Paul McCartney was thrilled to accept our invitation. With so many surveys

showing that his 2008 concert was the high point of the celebrations marking the 400years of

Québec, what better way to mark it's fifth anniversary?" said Daniel Gélinas, General Manager of

3E event-experience-emotion, which is putting on this new show.

Paul McCartney's "Out There" tour is an all-new production featuring close to three hours of

songs spanning his entire career–as a solo artist, member of Wings and, of course, The Beatles.

The McCartney live experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity to share many of the greatest

moments of the last 50 years of musical history with material from the most beloved catalog in

popular music.

2013 another landmark year!

Paul has thrown himself into 2013 with full force following a landmark year in 2012, which saw

him conclude his record-breaking “On The Run” tour, release his Grammy-winning Kisses On The

Bottom album, play at both the Diamond Jubilee and Olympics Opening Ceremony, headline The

Concert For Sandy Relief and accept a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

2013 also marks the 50th anniversary of Beatlemania, an expression coined in 1963 by the Daily

Mirror to describe the Beatles phenomenon. And it was in 1963 that the band played their last gig

at The Cavern in Liverpool before setting out to conquer the world.

Festival fans first

An exclusive ticket sale reserved for those having Festival passes and Front-Stage Zone tickets

for the 46th Festival d’été de Québec will take place from May 4 to 10. All ticket holders will

receive a box office access code by e-mail or by phone, on Wednesday May 1st, so they can buy

their wristbands for this show (maximum of 4 wristbands per code). Regular ticket sales start the following day, May 11, and continue while wristband supplies last.

There are two categories of wristbands:

• General Admission:

o $99.50, taxes and service fees included, plus shipping

• Front-Stage Zone:

o $199.50, taxes and service fees included, plus shipping

Wristbands sales:

• Online : www.3e-evenement.com/outthere

• By phone :

o Quebec City Area and international (outside North America) : 418 380-8290

o Toll-free (Canada and US) : 1 888 514-2894

For more details, go to www.3e-evenement.com/outthere

-30-

Information : Mélissa Brisson

International Media Relations Coordinator

3 E event-experience-emotion

(418) 523-4540

mbrisson@infofestival.com

Quality, diversity and balance mark the 46th Festival d'été de Québec

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/04/23

Press release

For immediate release

QUALITY, DIVERSITY AND BALANCE MARK THE 46TH FESTIVAL D’ÉTÉ DE QUÉBEC!

Quebec City, April 23, 2013 – The waiting is over! The Festival d’été de Québec has released this

year's outdoor shows in a program covering a broad range of musical genres. Pop artists and

living legends, names to discover and rising stars - for festival fans, choice is the operative word.

The Black Keys, Bruno Mars, Tiësto, Wu-Tang Clan, Def Leppard, Weezer , Rush, Wiz

Khalifa, MGMT, Foreigner, Bad Religion, Bassnectar, Belle & Sebastien, Emmylou Harris &

Rodney Crowell, Passion Pit and Ellie Goulding are just some of the big names on this year's

lineup.

"Again this year, we're proud to say that the Festival d’été de Québec is in the vanguard. The

depth of talent on our program clearly puts us right up there with the biggest and the best," said

General Manager Daniel Gélinas.

As Program Director Louis Bellavance explained, "This depth can be seen in the number of

shows that have a slate of big names from start to finish, and this goes for international and

francophone artists, whatever the style or the venue. It's one of the biggest plusses in this year's

programming."

ElectroFEQ

The 2012 ElectroFEQ show was a surprise hit that drew crowds of electro fans and more than a

few curious festivalgoers to the largest venue, the Plains of Abraham. ElectroFEQ is back this

year even bigger and better than ever, with shows at four different venues on four consecutive

nights, starting at the Impérial and reaching a crescendo on the Plains!

Kicking off at the Impérial on July 8 with Le Matos, Keys N Krates and Austra, the ElectroFEQ

moves to the Hydro-Québec Stage at Place d’Youville the next day, with the world beat grooves

of the Mexican Institute of Sound, 3Ball MTY and A Tribe Called Red. On Wednesday, July

10, dubstep takes over the Loto-Québec Stage at Parc de la Francophonie with Zeds Dead and

Bassnectar headlining the show.

And to top off ElectroFEQ on Thursday, July 11, the Plains will be plugged into Madeon, Martin

Solveig and Wolfgang Gartner, with superstar Tiësto the highlight of the show. This evening of

electro house music will call for one of biggest technical deployments in the history of the

Festival.

Bell Stage on the Plains of Abraham

July 4: As was announced a few weeks ago, the Festival will open in French on a grand scale

with Quand le Québec chante. Five solid names in Québec song, Paul Piché, Daniel Lavoie,

Richard Séguin, Michel Rivard and Laurence Jalbert, accompanied by a chorus of 400 voices,

will be playing their most popular hits along with some of Québec's best-loved standards.

July 5: Hip-hop could make history this night with the legendary Wu-Tang Clan playing here for

the first time! Big name rapper Wiz Khalifa is up just before the American group, along with

Classified, known for the hit single Inner Ninja. Anodajay, Dramatik, Koriass, Manu Militari

and Samian, in a hip-hop celebration of the 10th anniversary of Disques 7e Ciel, will be opening

the show.

July 6: Since The Black Keys' wildly popular Festival appearance in 2011, they've racked up

Grammy awards and hit the international scene big-time with their new album. Now on top of their

game, it's an honour to have them back on the Plains. Eagles of Death Metal and Father John

Misty will be up first.

July 7: With their latest album J’aime ta grand-mère, and their concept show Les Trois Accords

with a bunch of chicks, a big brass band and balls of fire, the Trois Accords embrace the absurd.

And they have more than one guest artist and surprise in store for the audience! They'll be

preceded onstage by French star M, whose incredible personality and energy really shine in a live

show. Caféïne will be opening in what promises to be an evening Festival fans won't want to

miss.

July 8: The announcement that pop superstar Bruno Mars was coming to the Festival really got

things rolling. His fans should also go for Ellie Goulding's world-popular electro pop, and for

Toronto's own Diamond Rings.

July 9: Passion Pit, MGMT, Weezer - the Festival has pulled out all the stops with this hardhitting lineup. This will be the first time MGMT plays here in Québec City.

July 10: Rush is back with a new, highly-acclaimed super production, the Clockwork Angel Tour.

Packed with impressive projections and special effects, this will be the tour's only stop in Québec.

July 11: ElectroFEQ

July 13: The legendary Def Leppard needs no introduction, and it goes without saying that this

show will bring hardcore rockers out in droves. Talented US rock band Foreigner is up first.

Loto-Québec Stage at Parc de la Francophonie

The Loto-Québec Stage has always held a special place in the heart of Festival fans as a venue

where new talent is revealed and musical memories are made. With the spotlight on French

music, some of Québec's most popular artists are slated to play here this year. Cœur de pirate

will be putting on her only band-style show of the summer in an evening that starts with talented

young singer-songwriter Chloé Lacasse followed by promising artist Karim Ouellet, from

Québec City. Lisa Leblanc, whose debut album went gold, will be onstage right after

performances by none other than Bernard Adamus and Keith Kouna. And in a night to

remember, look for Richard Desjardins and Ingrid St-Pierre, accompanied by a string quartet, as well as Gaële. To close the Festival, Robert Charlebois will sing hits from a career spanning

fifty years, with David Giguère and Hôtel Morphée up first.

Big name indie band Belle & Sebastian is sure to draw crowds for their first ever Quebec City

appearance. Here We Go Magic and Born Ruffians will set the tone for an evening of indie pop.

Then punk rock takes over with Bad Religion, whose new album is making records sales. First

up will be The Hunter, The Balconies and the winner of the Clic ton band contest. So get there

early!

For metal fans, Parc de la Francophonie is the place to be! In their only canadian appearance

and their first in Quebec City, the 15 musicians of the German band Avantasia, known for their

symphonic metal sound, are here with a grandiose rock opera. Voivod will be celebrating its 30th

year, up right after Never More than Less. The Festival is also welcoming folk legend Emmylou

Harris and her guitarist Rodney Crowell, with songs from their country-folk duo album Yellow

Moon. Bears of Legend will be opening. Look for big crowds for Canadian pop rock band

Marianas Trench, who just won the Juno Award for Group of the Year. Down with Webster will

get things rolling along with Quebec City's own Final State.

Hydro-Québec Stage at Place Metro in Place d’Youville

A lively program of world beat, blues, soul, reggae, pop and electro music will have the HydroQuébec stage hopping every evening this year!

World music fans, get ready to dance to the music of Amadou et Mariam, Kassav’, Fatoumata

Diawara, Locos for Juana and the inimitable Balkan Beat Box. Afrobeat is out in full force with

Femi Kuti & The Positive Force, a big name in afrofunk, and The Souljazz Orchestra.

Danakil, Reggae Meta and The Cornerstones will fill Place d’Youville with the laid-back sound

of reggae, with some help from French reggae masters Alpha Blondy & The Solar System.

Soul fans will be happy to see soul funk legend Booker T. Jones in a lineup that includes The

Dynamite featuring Charles Walker and Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, who lights a fire

everywhere she goes. Gospel soul is also on tap with The Relatives and Naomi Shelton & The

Gospel.

Blues lovers won't want to miss James Hunter, The Slide Brothers, and Dr. John, the Night

Tripper, here directly from New Orleans.

There will also be plenty of music in French at Place d’Youville, with Loco Locass

playing songs from their latest album, Le Québec est mort, vive le Québec! Noir Silence

and Canailles will be playing at Place d’Youville that same evening. Festival favourite

Daran will also be back, with Zaz headlining.

The beating heart of the Festival, the Hydro-Québec Stage will also host Socalled, Nomadic

Massive, Nick Waterhouse, Charly Yapo, Sagapool, Coyote Bill, Kodiak, Gotta Logo

Project, William Sevigny, Jeanphilip and Ampli de Québec artists Julielle, Maude, Équinoxe

and The Seasons."Year after year, the FEQ is a driving force for the local economy that helps keep the financial

outlook sound. But in addition to the millions of dollars the Festival brings in, it also builds a level

of technical expertise that can't be beat," Board Chairman Mario Girard pointed out.

Geneviève Borne, President of the 25th Prix Miroir

The Prix Miroir, sponsored by SODEC and awarded at the end of the Festival d’été de Québec,

recognizes the talent of local and guest artists. Geneviève Borne will preside over the jury in this

25th anniversary year. Active in the cultural milieu for over 20 years, and co-host of Belle & Bum

(a Quebec tv show), she has always been a music lover above all. And this Quebec City native

has never been shy about saying that the Festival d’été de Québec is her pick! Organizers are

pleased to have this outstanding communicator as the spokesperson for the 25th Prix Miroir

awards.

Again this year, the Festival is looking for an avid music lover from the public to sit on the Prix

Miroir jury! Interested candidates will find details on the Festival website. Go for it!

The 46th Festival d’été de Québec takes place from July 4 to 14, 2013.

The Festival d’été de Québec is presented by Bell in collaboration with Molson Dry.

-30-

Information: Rachel Dupuis

Public Relations Officer

Festival d’été de Québec

(418) 523-4540

T : (418) 523-4540

rdupuis@infofestival.com

‘Céline… une seule fois’ on the Plains of Abraham Saturday, July 27, 2013 at 8:00PM

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/04/02

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate release

‘CÉLINE… UNE SEULE FOIS’ ON THE PLAINS OF ABRAHAM SATURDAY, JULY 27, 2013 AT 8:00PM

TICKETS ON SALE SATURDAY, APRIL 6

Québec City, Canada (Tuesday, April 2, 2013) – Céline Dion is preparing a one-time special event for Québec City—her only show outside Las Vegas. The most famous Quebec artist in the world will perform her greatest hits. A world exclusive show, Céline… une seule fois, is created specifically for fans who will join her on the Plains of Abraham Saturday July 27, 2013. Tickets will go on sale through the Billetech network on Saturday April 6, at 10:00 AM. In order to ensure comfort and safety, only 60,000 tickets will be available. QuébéComm is presenting the show.

The Show: ‘Céline… une seule fois’

Céline, in her home province, will perform a one time, world exclusive show comprised of 80% French and 20 % English hits. During the next few months, the team will be working on a made-to-measure concept adapted for the mythic Plains of Abraham, site of many great events. Fans not only from across Québec and Canada, but from the rest of the world as well are expected to attend this very unique event.

The artistic team of "Céline… une seule fois’

Musical Director: Claude "Mego" Lemay

Lighting Designer / Artistic Director: Yves Aucoin

Sound: Denis Savage, François Desjardins

The staging will be done collectively by René Angelil, Celine Dion, Yves Aucoin, Claude Lemay, Denis Savage.

Pre-sale (limited number of tickets) – from 10:00AM Thursday, April 4 to 6:00PM Friday April 5

Members of TeamCeline (Celine’s official Fan Club), QuébéComm newsletter subscribers and members of J’ai ma place will have priority access to tickets as of Thursday April 4 at 10:00 AM. Registration to the QuébéComm infolettre and to TeamCeline is free of charge and those registered will receive information by email. There are a limited number of tickets in each section.

Registration for the QuébéComm newsletter can be done on www.celineuneseulefois.com .

General Admission Ticket Sales – Saturday April 6- 10:00AM

Tickets will go on sale to the general public Saturday April 6, at 10:00AM. Tickets will be available from $69 to $149, including taxes and service charges. They will be available on the Billetech network, at www.billetech.com , at different ticket outlets and by telephone at 1-877-643-8131 or at 1-800-900-SHOW.

A special section "Section A-OR VIP Package" for a maximum of 5,000 people is also available as a package deal. Buyers of this package will have a ticket in Section A-OR in front of the stage, a VIP entrance with no waiting, one free refreshment to celebrate the event, added bar and restaurant services, extra sanitary services, an official ‘Celine... une seule fois’ souvenir plus an accreditation and an official VIP ribbon.

QuébéComm has developed affordable pricing. Outdoor major events on the Plains of Abraham have been divided into five sections providing a good partition of the crowd and easier access to the site:

SECTION A - OR, VIP PACKAGE (including several benefits):

$ 299 including taxes and service charges

SECTION B-SILVER

$ 149 including taxes and service charges

SECTION C:

$ 99 including tax and service charges

SECTION D:

$ 99 including tax and service charges

SECTION E:

$ 69 including tax and service charges

All places are general admission. No chairs will be accepted on site.

This spectacular event will be exclusive to Québec City. QuébéComm and its artistic team will do everything to bring a one of a kind experience to the audience—a unifying and memorable experience. It is important to note that each ticket holder will be guaranteed a place on the site. Ticket sales will be limited to 60,000 to ensure comfort and safety. QuébéComm is very sensitive to the recommendations received following the Madonna show on the plains and will make every effort to improve the experience, including among other things: additional giant screens, more food and beverage services and sufficient sanitary services.

All information on logistics for hosting and site access will be announced later by QuébéComm, working in collaboration with the competent authorities, namely Quebec City, the Québec City bureau of major events, the Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC), Québec City tourism (Office du tourisme de Québec) the Québec City Police Department and the National Battlefields Commission (special NBC).

QuébéComm would like to thank the National Battlefields Commission (NBC) for their collaboration.

Keep up to date and follow all the news on the CÉLINE…UNE SEULE FOIS EVENT ON THE PLAINS OF ABRAHAM, visit www.celineuneseulefois.com , subscribe to the QuébéComm infolettre and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/quebecomm.

QUÉBÉCOMM

For 15 years, QuébéComm has been constantly expanding. Renown for creativity in entertainment, Québécomm is the cultural force behind such memorable musical events as the recent Madonna show on the Plains of Abraham, September 1, 2012, PARIS-QUÉBEC on the Plains of Abraham during Québec City’s 400th anniversary, and now, this July 27, the Céline Dion show. In the field of comedy, Québecomm produces the Festival Grand Rire, as well as the series lol :-) which has been sold in over 100 countries around the world, the Grand Rire Gala, the Grand Rire in Paris and Marrakech, the Comédie Club series, and several documentaries. It has also produced stage performances for charity and entertainment tours such as Anthony Kavanagh, Daniel Lemire and Olivier Martineau. Other projects are in development, including films. QuébéComm continues its mission to entertain the world by creating and producing entertainment in all its forms.

-30 -

Coordinates:

For Céline Dion:

Francine Chaloult

514-487-6547

info@francinechaloult.com

For QuébéComm:

Audrey Laroche

alaroche@quebecomm.com

418-647-2525, poste 126

Vélirium promises to be INTENSE!

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/03/25

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate release

International Mountain Bike Festival and UCI World Cup

Vélirium promises to be INTENSE!

Beaupré, Tuesday March 26, 2013 – The 11th edition of Vélirium will be presented in a new fashion, over a long weekend at Mont-Sainte-Anne and in downtown Quebec City. Now condensed into four days, the ultimate mountain bike festival will be packed with intensity and adrenaline from Thursday, August 8 to Sunday, August 11!

Program schedule preview

In order to make mountain bike lovers mouths water, the Organizing Committee is now releasing an overview of the program schedule:

Downtown Quebec City

• Thursday, August 8 – Urban Delirium

Mont-Sainte-Anne

• Friday, August 9 – Dirt, BMX and Trial demo ?

• Saturday, August 10 – Cross-Country World Cup, Véli-Kidz children’s race, extreme sports show in the Exhibitors Village and rock party in the Lounge area *The schedule is subject to change.

• Sunday, August 11 – Downhill World Cup, Raid Vélo Mag, extreme sports show in the Exhibitors Village and electro party in the Lounge area

In addition to its wide sports programming, Vélirium will continue to offer a fun-filled family area, an Exhibitors Village with the greatest names of the mountain bike industry, and a Lounge area which will be the host of many unforgettable parties!

More information to come on our website: www.velirium.com

About Gestev

GESTEV produces the Vélirium event for Corporation Coupe du monde de vélo de montagne Mont Ste-Anne. Established in 1992, GESTEV is a dynamic event management company which specializes in sports and cultural events in the Québec City area. Snowboard Jamboree and Vélirium are only a few examples of major events produced by the company. GESTEV also manages Baie de Beauport, and it is a certified responsible event management company (BNQ 9700-253).

-30-

facebook.com/Velirium flickr.com/photos/gestev/collections/

twitter.com/Velirium vimeo.com/Velirium

Source: Marie-Michelle Gagné

Project manager – Media Relations

mmgagne@gestev.com 418-561-6762

magiNation 2013 Jian Ghomeshi and Emma Donoghue at the Morrin Centre’s writers’ festival

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/03/24

For immediate release

PRESS RELEASE

ImagiNation 2013 Jian Ghomeshi and Emma Donoghue at the Morrin Centre’s writers’ festival

Quebec City, March 25, 2013 – The Morrin Centre’s fourth annual writers’ festival is happy to announce that award-winning broadcaster, musician, producer, best-selling author and host of Q on CBC Radio One and CBC TV, Jian Ghomeshi, will tell us about his best-selling memoir 1982 and his show. The line-up this year also includes Governor General’s Award-winner Guy Vanderhaeghe, celebrated Canadian science fiction author Robert J. Sawyer, and Irish-Canadian novelist Emma Donoghue whose novel Room was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in 2010. Other visiting authors include Commonwealth Writer’s Prize-winner Deni Y. Béchard and influential publisher Douglas Gibson. In his unique one-man stage-show, the latter will discuss the relationships he developed with some of Canada’s most memorable public figures and writers over his 40 years as publisher and editor.

Sponsored in part by Le Soleil and La Maison Anglaise et Internationale, the Morrin Centre’s fourth annual English-language writers’ festival is from April 6 to 16, 2013. ImagiNation contributes year after year to helping the general public get better acquainted with Canadian authors through public discussions, readings and performances.

The Morrin Centre would like to thank its partners, including the Entente de développement culturel (a partnership between the City of Quebec and the Ministère de la Culture et des Communications), Canada Council for the Arts and the Bureau de la Capitale-Nationale.

The complete program is available at imagination.morrin.org.

Please contact Elizabeth Perreault for any requests for interviews with the authors or organisers of the festival.

About the Morrin Centre

The Morrin Centre is an English-language cultural centre that promotes the heritage of the English-speaking community of Quebec City, fosters cultural exchange and offers a wide range of activities including library services, guided tours, readings by prominent authors, writing workshops, a writers’ festival and much more. This 200 year-old building, listed as a National Historic Site, is managed by the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec.

– 30 –

Press contact: Elizabeth Perreault Program and Communications Director elizabethperreault@morrin.org

Hôtel de Glace extends its season to April 1st!

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/03/20

Press release

For immediate release

THE HÔTEL DE GLACE EXTENDS ITS SEASON TO APRIL 1ST!

Quebec City, March 21, 2013 – This year, the weather has cooperated to let the Hôtel de Glace stay open until Monday, April 1, instead of closing on March 24 as planned. This means that it will remain open for the long Easter weekend - giving people one last chance to visit the Hôtel de Glace in 2013! This is only the second time in 13 years that the Hôtel de Glace has extended its season beyond the scheduled closing date.

Special activities

The Hôtel de Glace team has put together a special program for Easter weekend. Along with the traditional sugar shack, a barbecue will be set up on the terrace and kids can take part in an Easter egg hunt. The prize is a giant chocolate treat from Chocolats Favoris!

Exceptionally, the hot tubs will be open to the public, so bring your bathing suit, towel, tuque and sandals! The lively Club Spas team will be on hand to warm up the atmosphere.

Good news for families, free admission for kids 12 and under from March 29 to April 1!

New hours

From now until it closes, the Hôtel de Glace will be open to the public from 10 am to 8 pm Sunday to Thursday, and from 10 am to midnight Friday and Saturday. Although there will be no guided tours from March 24 to 28, they will be offered during Easter weekend from Friday, March 29 to Monday, April 1.

With its scintillating chandelier and cocktails served in sparkling glasses made of ice, its ever-popular Super Slide and 44 theme rooms and suites, the Hotel de Glace is a one of a kind experience in a spellbinding decor. The Hotel de Glace, where frozen natural beauty meets hot urban style - a must since 2001.

- 30 -

Source: Québec Hotel de Glace

Information and interviews:

Rachel Dupuis

Communications Adviser

rdupuis@hoteldeglace-canada.com

Tel.: 418 623-2888, ext.: 101

Chef Stéphane Modat honored at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/03/01

Chef Stéphane Modat honored

at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards

His book Papilles pour tous! in collaboration with François Chartier

is awarded the "Best food and wine pairing book" in the world

(Québec) March 1, 2013 – Last February 23, at the prestigious Gourmand World Cookbook Awards gala held in Paris, the collection of four cookbooks Papilles pour tous! by Chef Stéphane Modat and his collaborator François Chartier, took top honors by receiving the coveted "Best food and wine pairing book" in the world.

Collaboration between Stéphane and François Chartier Modat began in 2009, when they formed the duo Mc2 and co-sign the bestselling books Les Recettes de Papilles et Molécules as well as the collection Papilles pour tous! (fall, winter, spring and summer). Then, alongside François Chartier, Stéphane Modat was the Chef of the television series Papilles, which aired in 2012 on Télé-Québec.

Recently, Stéphane Modat joined the kitchen brigade of the Château Frontenac as Restaurant Chef. Modat currently acts as Restaurant Chef of the existing Le Champlain restaurant, bringing until its temporary closure for renovations in June 2013. During this time, he will work at the elaboration and development of the new restaurant concepts and take the reins as Restaurant Chef for the reopening scheduled for late 2013.

The Papilles pour tous! collection is available at Les Éditions La Presse.

####

Contact:

Geneviève Parent

Public Relation Director

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

1, rue des Carrières

Québec, Québec

Canada G1R 4P5

Téléphone: (418) 691-2157

Québec's St. Patrick's Parade announces the program for its 4th edition

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/02/28

Press release

For immediate release

LE DÉFILÉ DE LA SAINT-PATRICK DE QUÉBEC

ANNOUNCES THE PROGRAM FOR ITS 4TH EDITION!

Québec, February 28, 2013 - The Défilé de la Saint-Patrick de Québec is proud to announce the program for its 4th edition, that will, for the first time in a same parade, welcome a “dream team” of three renowned police pipes and drums bands from New York, Boston, and Chicago on Saturday, March 23, starting at 1:30 p.m.!

Mr. James Donovan, Vice-President of the Corporation pour la mise en valeur de Grosse-Île and our 2013 Grand Marshall will have the honour of leading the parade. Musician members of an all-new Service de police de la Ville de Québec pipes and drums band will join us, along with the Éclairs de Québec, the Titans de Québec, the Montréal Pipes & Drums, the RCMP Pipes and Drums Band, horses, Irish Wolfhounds, St. Patrick’s High School’s Fighting Irish, giant leprechauns, costumed street entertainers, and more!

A total of over 1,500 participants – including more than 120 professional pipes and drums bands musicians – will take part in the festivities!

“It is always a pleasure to be able to celebrate this traditional Irish holiday in the streets of Québec,” said Mayor Régis Labeaume. “On March 23, I invite all citizens to dress in their best green to demonstrate their attachment to Quebeckers of Irish origin!”

Not to be missed is the official Défilé party that will begin at 9:00 p.m. at Le St-Patrick Irish pub – a unique opportunity to hear a performance by the three internationally-renowned police pipes and drums bands from New York, Boston, and Chicago!

To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, the public is also invited to have their picture taken with Bono, the Défilé’s Irish Wolfhound Official Mascot, at the Salon Info canin at Laurier Québec on Sunday, March 17, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

The Défilé de la Saint-Patrick de Québec would like to thank its major partners, without whom our event would not be possible: la Ville de Québec, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Pub Saint-Patrick, Carlsberg, la Maison Simons Inc., H Grégoire de Québec, Frank M. O’Dowd Inc., WestJet, Pub Nelligan’s, as well as all our media partners.

Come celebrate our common Irish heritage on March 23 decked out in your finest green at this great parade guaranteed to entertain and delight young and old!

Starts at 1:30 p.m. at St. Patrick’s High School, turns down avenue Cartier, continues along rue St-Jean, and ends at l’Hôtel de ville de Québec.

For further information : www.qcpatrick.com

–30–

Source :

Geneviève Ouellet-Fortin

Le Défilé de la Saint-Patrick de Québec

gouelletfortin@projety.com

www.qcpatrick.com

For information :

Marie-Josée Tremblay

Media Relations Coordinator

Mercure Communication

418 681-5559 #21 | mjtremblay@mercurecommunication.com

Paris on stage. 1889-1914: A spectacular exhibition at Québec City's Musée de la Civilisation

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/02/28

PARIS ON STAGE: 1889–1914

With its unmistakable European je-ne-sais-quoi and vibrant culture, Québec City—North America’s French stronghold—is the perfect choice to host this world-class exhibition on Paris in the Belle Époque. Paris on Stage: 1889–1914 will run at Musée de la civilisation from June 19, 2013, to February 23, 2014. Come and find out how Paris became the European cultural capital of its time, as you discover the iconic people, events, and places that epitomize those remarkable days. A wondrous journey through time and space in an enthralling ambiance and evocative Belle Époque décor. Paris on Stage: 1889–1914 is a Musée de la civilisation production under the artistic direction of Cirque Éloize’s Jeannot Painchaud.

Paris Immersion

Paris on Stage: 1889–1914 is an immersive exhibition that plunges visitors head first into the bustle, effervescence, and energy of Belle Époque Paris. Staged to conjure up the Paris of our dreams using space, sound, and light, it calls virtually all the senses into play. With the help of an audioguide, visitors become flâneurs, strolling along the great boulevards—and there’s so much to see! They enter the skin of a Belle Époque Parisian, marveling at the newness and creativity and delighted by the many manifestations of popular culture and new leisure opportunities. Along the way, a chanson is heard in a café or from a sidewalk orchestra, while feelings are stirred in Bois de Boulogne or at the view through a peephole. Experience the moving sidewalk from the 1900 Universal Exhibition or the view from the Eiffel Tower’s first level.

Under the Roofs of Paris: Amazing Collections

Paris on Stage: 1889–1914 is also an opportunity to showcase outstanding artistic, technical, and historical pieces from the collections of the great Parisian museums. In all, close to 250 artifacts and works of art testifying to the creative ferment of the period are on display, including paintings by Jean Béraud, Abel Truchet, posters—some extremely rare—by Toulouse-Lautrec and Mucha, sculptures by Auguste Rodin and Camille Claudel, items once belonging to the divine Sarah Bernhardt, circus costumes, photographs, period film excerpts, automata, objects illustrating technical advances such as automobiles, velocipedes, and cinematographs, works and objects relating to the Eiffel Tower and its construction, and much more. One star attraction will be Léon Lhermitte’s Les Halles, a monumental 4 m X 6.3 m painting. It has not been removed from the vaults since 1930 and has been restored for the occasion, making the exhibition a kind of world premiere.

Musée de la civilisation has also drawn on its own national collections to illustrate scientific advances of the day, as well as the presence of Québec artists in Paris, including Alfred Laliberté, Charles Huot, and Marc-Aurèle de Foy Suzor-Coté.

In Paris Streets

Paris on Stage: 1889–1914 is built around a street scene evoking the celebrated boulevards of the City of Light. This space is overflowing with information on this golden age. Here and there are partially enclosed spaces, each with its own theme: the Paris Market (Les Halles), circus and carnival, cinema, café-concerts and music halls, parks and gardens, theater, Salons d’artistes, Bourdelle’s art studio, the Alma pavilion, and the world’s fairs. Each of these theme spaces has its own special atmosphere and unique visitor experience.

Beyond the Exhibition

A variety of cultural activities will be presented as a complement to Paris on Stage throughout the year. A fascinating iPod tour for children is also available.

The Museum, in collaboration with Beaux Arts magazine, will also release a book featuring contributions by numerous well-known experts. The work will be distributed nationally and internationally in both French and in English.

Celebrating an Anniversary

Paris on Stage: 1889–1914 is one of the major events to mark the 25th anniversary of Musée de la civilisation, which opened in 1988. The Museum also wishes to pay tribute to the special ties it has always had with France and the great Parisian museums.

Paris on Stage: 1889–1914, an unforgettable voyage, June 19, 2013, to February 23, 2014, at Québec City’s Musée de la civilisation. Alcoa is a partner in all Musée de la civilisation programming.

INFORMATION

Serge Poulin, Press Relations

Telephone: 418-528-2072

Email: spoulin@mcq.org

Francine Desbiens, Tourism Promotion

Telephone: 418-644-8887

Email: fdesbiens@mcq.org

Spotlight on the River!

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/02/26

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

SPOTLIGHT ON THE RIVER!

From August 3 to 21 - 2013

Quebec City, Thursday February 26, 2013 - Last year the change initiated by the revival of Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec marked the turning point for the organization. The decision to present the fireworks on the river between Quebec City and Lévis was greatly appreciated by thousands of spectators on both sides of the river.

New in 2013

It is with enthusiasm and pride that the organization of Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec announces the return of the event this summer. The 2013 presentation of Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec will further liven up Quebec City and Lévis during the summer season. Innovative concept with original themes, the organization will offer six distinctive pyromusical performances in collaboration with six different successful tourism organizations present in Quebec City during the programming of the Grands Feux Loto-Québec:

August 3 Festival d’Opéra de Québec

August 7 Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France

August 10 Festival Jazz etcetera de Lévis

August 14 Paris en scène (in collaboration with le Musée de la civilisation de Québec)

August 17 Wendake à l’honneur !

August 21 Festival International de Musiques militaires

Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec 2013, a grandiose production in a unique maritime setting!

- Presented on Saturdays and Wednesdays from August 3 to 21, 2013 at 22:30;

- Six performances lasting approximately 20 minutes;

- Six distinct and original themes reflecting the colors of Quebec City and Lévis;

- The river : a spectacular amphitheatre conducive to gatherings;

- A firing platform in the heart of the St. Lawrence River;

- Simultaneous broadcasting;

- General admission free on both sides of the river.

« With a renewed formula in 2012, the organization of Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec has proven that the event had its place in the festival’s summer calendar, said the Mayor of Quebec City, Régis Labeaume. This year, the new concept will be very interesting and will highlight the vitality of the events that animate Quebec City. »

« We are very pleased to announce the return of Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec in 2013. It was important for the organization to present a new edition with exciting new features and attractions, but most of all, to present Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec as an event connected to the river, conducive to gatherings, inviting and integrated to the event organization of the two sides of the river. The location on the St. Lawrence River is a magnificent natural amphitheatre that will dazzle spectators in Quebec City and Levis» said Lynda Germain, Executive Director of the Grands Feux Loto-Québec.

Moreover, it is a great pleasure to announce the return of several key partners. Thanks to them, the organization can present this event: Loto-Québec, Groupe Océan, Croisières AML, l’Office du tourisme de Québec, le Port de Québec, Groupe Qualinet, Croisières Lachance, Croisières Coudrier et several others to be confirmed shortly. In addition, this year we are proud to have the excellent cooperation of Quebec City and Levis.

Further details on the programming and logistics of the event as well as other information will be announced in the coming months.

We invite you to visit our website: www.lesgrandsfeux.com

- 30 -

Relations avec les médias

Jean Brouillard Communication et relations publiques

418 682-6111

1 888 682-6112

Québec City Convention Centre Free High-Speed Wireless Internet

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/02/14

February 14, 2013

Québec City Convention Centre

Free High-Speed Wireless Internet

The Québec City Convention Centre is now the first Canadian convention centre to offer free high-speed wireless Internet to all its delegates and this, throughout the entire facility.

An exclusive partnership with Vidéotron Business Solutions, one of Québec’s most important telecommunication companies, enables the Québec City Convention Centre to offer full, high-speed wireless Internet coverage up to the maximum capacity of each individual room, at no charge to clients. For example, a meeting room with a 500-attendee capacity offers the possibility for every attendee to access high-speed wireless Internet complimentary for their personal use.

“In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, Internet is essential. Many hotels, restaurants and public spaces offer free Internet access. We wanted to limit charges paid by our valued customers for something that is often free. Attendees now have access to free high-speed wireless Internet for their personal use, no matter where they are in the Convention Centre,” explained the Convention Centre’s CEO, P.-Michel Bouchard.

About the Québec City Convention Centre

The Québec City Convention Centre’s mission is to attract major conventions and events, positioning Québec City as the premiere destination for business events. Every year, the Québec City Convention Centre welcomes over 200,000 visitors from around the world and hosts major national and international conventions. It is an important driver of economic activity, generating an average of $80 million per year in economic benefits for the region.

Contact: Emilie Belisle, Information Officer

Québec City Convention Centre

1 888 679-4000

Festival d'été de Québec Passes Go on Sale Saturday!

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/02/14

FESTIVAL D’ÉTÉ DE QUÉBEC PASSES GO ON SALE SATURDAY!

Press release

For immediate release

Québec City, February 14, 2013 - Look for 75,000 passes for the 46th

Festival d'été de Québec to go on sale starting at noon on Saturday, February 16. This early-bird sale will be held exclusively online and by phone, ending Friday, March 15 or when passes are sold out. The price is

$66, taxes and service fee included. Starting March 16, 2013, an additional 75,000 passes will go

on sale at the regular price of $76, taxes and service fee included.

• 2 dates: February 16, 2013 and March 16, 2013

• 2 prices: $66 and $76

• 2 ways to buy: Internet and telephone

Online: www.infofestival.com

By phone:

o 418-800-FEIQ (3347) Quebec City area and international (outside North America)

o 1-855-800-FEIQ (3347) Canada and US (toll-free)

The Festival pass includes a Bell RFID wristband and a flashing pin, and is good for all 11 days of

Festival shows, at all the outdoor and indoor venues. As in past years, you can buy up to 4

passes per transaction. Postal delivery is recommended even though passes can be picked-up in

person at the Colisée Pepsi box office from May 1 through June 1.

For full details on this special sale go to www.infofestival.com.

Everyone who purchases a pass before Friday February 28 could win VIP passes for the next

Festival! Open to all Festival Facebook page fans who fill out the entry form on this page.

The 46th edition of the Festival d’été de Québec will be held from July 4 to 14, 2013.

The Festival d’été de Québec is presented by Bell in collaboration with Molson Dry.

-30-

Information: Luci Tremblay

Communications Director

Festival d’été de Québec

(418) 523-4540

ltremblay@infofestival.com

Hôtel de Glace Welcomes Its One-Millionth Visitor!

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/02/12

HÔTEL DE GLACE WELCOMES ITS ONE-MILLIONTH VISITOR!

Quebec City, February 12, 2013 – Today, the one-millionth guest visited the Hôtel de Glace! It is Marlène Noël and his husband Michel Aubert, from the Quebec area. To mark this special occasion, the lucky visitor received a gift package including a one-night stay at the Hôtel de Glace in 2014.

More Behind the Scene tours added

This year's new Behind the Scene tour is so popular that additional tours have been scheduled for Saturday, February 16 and 23! These Behind the Scene tours are by reservation only. To check the schedule and book a tour go to www.hoteldeglace-canada.com.

Occupancy more than satisfactory

So far this season, the Hôtel de Glace has registered a very high occupancy rate, currently 78%. The hotel also has more rooms this year, up from 36 rooms in 2012 to 44 in 2013.

- 30 -

Source: Québec Hotel de Glace

Information and interviews :

Rachel Dupuis

Communications Adviser

rdupuis@hoteldeglace-canada.com

Tel.: 418 623-2888, ext.: 101

Mont-Sainte-Anne welcomes world junior skiers

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/02/06

Press release

For immediate release

MONT-SAINTE-ANNE WELCOMES WORLD JUNIOR SKIERS

Beaupré, February 6, 2013 – Mont-Sainte-Anne is proud to host 2 of the FIS World Junior Alpine Ski

Championships events from February 18 to 28, 2013. Come and watch the thrilling performance of the best

young skiers in the world in slalom [SL] and Giant Slalom [GS]! Adds to this professional event, a friendly and

festive race called NATIONS’ CUP, which will take place on Saturday, February 23. In addition, all medals

ceremonies of the whole Championships event will be hold on Mont-Sainte-Anne’s scene, located at the base

of the mountain.

“LA CRETE” AND “LA BEAUREGARD” HOSTING THE EVENT

All races will take place in “La Crête” and “La Beauregard”, both signatures trails

of the mountain. Located completely at the western point of the South Side,

these black-diamond slopes offer a breathtaking panorama on the St.Lawrence

River and are very pleased by the locals. Daniel Rochon, VP and General Director

for Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham, mentions: “It is an honor for our team to

receive such an important event on our slopes and we wish that that it will

mobilize citizens of the Quebec region to take part in the festivities and watching

this show. These young athletes are an inspiration to all of us."

NATIONS’ CUP, A REAL SKI CELEBRATION!

On February 23, this not-FIS-approved competition is more a touristic and

spectacular event! The NATIONS’ CUP is exclusively reserved for the top 16

national teams among the 50 or so countries participating in the World

Championships and will showcase the best of the best in a team parallel race.

[Team are composed of 2 women and 2 men.] The arrival is located at the base

of the mountain, with music, bar and food service, to make sure of a great

atmosphere!

DO YOU KNOW SLALOM AND GIANT SLALOM?

While some disciplines are sometimes difficult to distinguish for the general

public eye, here are some details to know about SL and GS, which will be

presented at Mont-Sainte-Anne in the coming weeks:

>SL: Each athlete completes 2 runs and the total of the 2 courses determines order of finish. The course is the

shortest of the competition and usually takes about one minute per run to complete, which makes the pace

very quick and adds to the entertainment! The athletes push the gates with their arms to put them out of their

way. At the junior level, there are between 40 to 65 gates for the women and 55 to 75 gates for the men.

>GS: This discipline combines technique and speed and is considered by many as the premier alpine skiing

discipline. The athletes also have to complete 2 runs. What make it different to other disciplines are especially

the greater speeds and the much longer turns.

-30-

Please contact us for more information or to plan an interview.

Source Lisa Marie Lacasse Amélie Leclerc

Communication Manager Communications Coordinator

1.888.827.4579 # 323 1.800.463.6888 # 566

lisa-marie.lacasse@mont-sainte-anne.com amelie.leclerc@mont-sainte-anne.com

Station Blü – Nordic Spa Ranks 33rd 100 Most Amazing Spas in the World

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/02/01

STATION BLÜ – NORDIC SPA RANKS 33rd 100 MOST AMAZING SPAS IN THE WORLD

Saint-Tite-des-Caps,Thursday, February 1st, 2013 - In 2011, less than six months after its opening, Station Blü - Nordic spa deserved the GRAND PRIX DU DESIGN. In 2012, the CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER UK, a world reference regarding luxury tourism, had identified Station Blü - Nordic spa (with two photos) as being possibly a new standard for the industry of spas. Today, Station Blü - Nordic spa is in 33rd rank (equally with a spa of Dubai in United Arab Emirates) of 100 MOST AMAZING SPAS IN THE WOLD.

" Is it time to celebrate? " jokes Martin Gladu, president and general manager. " We do not work for that but it always pleases and moreover, it's like they are saying " you are in the right direction " ", he said.

" It is certain that we appreciate these recognitions but what pleases us more, it is to see the satisfaction of our clientele. To dare to make things differently always represents a risk and it was that risk which made us the most nervous " admits Mister Gladu.

The mention of Station Blü - Nordic spa in this Top 100 is a step furthermore towards a growing international recognition. Since the opening, Station Blü - Nordic spa was the subject of more than 200 articles in more than 18 countries.

Station Blü – Nordic spa is located less than 60km from Québec city, and half-way in between Mont Sainte-Anne and Le Massif de Charlevoix. Its unique concept is distinguished by its architecture, the extravagance of its facilities, exceptional natural environment, and musical atmosphere but especially by the fact that visitors can socialize. Everything is designed accordingly.

Over 5 million dollars in private investments were needed to ensure that the philosophy of the concept is reflected in all facilities. Station Blü – Nordic spa is a place that offers a relaxation and socialisation environment, an exceptional natural scenery highlighted by contemporary buildings in Charlevoix flavor (wood paneling reminding old barns of farmers in the region) and with high quality facilities. In which you will find, a wood- heated sauna, a steam bath with a freshness fountain and a giant whirlpool on two levels offering an amazing natural panorama.

The site benefits from the presence of a winding river, with clear water. Surrounding the center, where the access is easy from the sauna. There is also a 40-foot cliff that frames the whole and creates an exceptional staging to live a unique experience for athletes, nature lovers, epicureans and groups of all kinds. Covering an area of no less than 3,250,000 square feet, the equivalent of 190 NHL rinks, Station Blü can accommodate up to 140 guests at a time!

www.stationblu.ca

www.facebook.com/stationblu

Québec Winter Carnival solidifies its international position in Asia

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/01/28

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate release

Québec Winter Carnival solidifies its international position in Asia

Québec City, Monday, January 28— A delegation from the Québec Winter Carnival and Québec City

Tourism recently visited South Korea and China on a development mission to consolidate the city

and the Carnival’s position as a premium international winter destination. Québec City Tourism

general manager Gabriel Savard and Carnival executive director Jean Pelletier led the mission.

The latest step in an ongoing strategy

In April 2010, the Québec Winter Carnival teamed up with two other world-renowned events,

China’s Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival and the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Winter Festival in

South Korea, to become a founding member of the Winter Festivals Development Coalition. The

goal of the coalition is to foster cultural and promotional exchanges for the purpose of developing

tourism and enhancing event visibility. The partnership was quick to generate tangible results, with

South Korea participating as the guest country at the 57th edition of the Québec Winter Carnival in

2011.

A place at the table at the International Winter Festival Symposium in South Korea

To position itself as the world’s premium winter tourism event, the Carnival has to maintain a

strong international presence, build an extensive contact network, and develop in-depth

knowledge of its target markets: “Our mission to Asia gave us an opportunity to promote

Québec winter tourism to over a million visitors at the Hwacheon Festival. Our South Korean

counterparts were unanimous: what really sets the Carnival apart is its emphasis on

participation and the active role city residents play in organizing Carnival activities”, explained

Carnival executive director Jean Pelletier.

Other developments in store

In addition to attending the symposium in South Korea, the Québec City delegation also met with organizers of the Harbin Festival in China. Carnival representatives took advantage of the opportunity to present their hosts with a letter officially inviting China as guest country for the Carnival’s 60th anniversary. Moreover, the Carnival team is already hard at work organizing the next edition of the Winter Festival Symposium, which will be held in Québec City during the 2014 Carnival. During the mission’s China leg, delegates also met with officials from Destination Québec and the Canadian Tourism Commission in Beijing to secure their support and seek out their expertise in developing the Chinese and South Korean markets.

Québec City: Winter Capital of the World by 2020

Québec City has set an ambitious goal is to position itself as the world’s winter capital by 2020. Showcasing winter tourism activities like the iconic Winter Carnival is a key part of this strategy. “The Carnival is a one-of-a-kind event renowned around the globe. By the very nature of its activities and its geographic location, it’s the perfect match for the development priorities the City has set to boost our destination’s reputation,” noted Québec City Tourism General Manager Gabriel Savard.

From February 1 to 17, the Québec Carnival is winter’s star!

- 30 -

Source: Pascale Grenier, Press Officer

T: 418-626-3716 #220 / C: 418 803-5754

pascale.grenier@carnaval.qc.ca

2013 Québec Winter Carnival: A Prominent Program

Office du tourisme de Québec — 2013/01/09