Quebec City's 400th Birthday

Quebec City's 400th Birthday

It's a big year for this little city on the banks of the St-Lawrence, as 2008 marks Québec City's 400th birthday. The celebration begins on New Year's Eve, and various programs, exhibits, and festivals marking the anniversary continue through October.

The big bash, however, takes place from July 3-6, which coincides with the annual Québec City Summer Festival, when music, arts, and other cultural performances extend well into the evening. And, in typical Québecois fashion, festivities on the 6th will end with the Chemin qui marche, a spectacle that combines fire, water, dance, and other audiovisual treats, as well as an all-night party that's sure to last until dawn.

For more information on the 400th anniversary, visit the city's official Web site, www.ville.quebec.qc.ca.