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A first for Quebec’s Le Capitole

INAUGURATION OF LA GALERIE DE LA PASSERELLE AT LE CAPITOLE HÔTEL

Entre Ciel et Terre, exhibition by Marjorie Roy in collaboration with Les Galeries d’Art Beauchamp

Quebec, April 25, 2023 – This week marks the opening of La Galerie de la Passerelle at Le Capitole Hôtel, with the unveiling of its first exhibition accessible for free: Entre Ciel et Terre, by emerging artist Marjorie Roy. Located on the 7th floor of Le Capitole, the impressive glass walkway, linking the historic building to the new section of the hotel inaugurated in January 2019, welcomes the works of the Quebec City artist through a collaboration with Les Galeries d’Art Beauchamp. Debuting today, the exhibition will last all through summer. Open to the general public, La Galerie de la Passerelle will quickly become a must-see in the national capital.

Le Capitole Hôtel X Les Galeries d’Art Beauchamp

Widely recognized as a cultural hub, Le Capitole benefits from its new modern spaces to showcase local talent in both the performing and visual arts. A true place of discovery and gathering for the hotel’s guests, Quebec City residents, and tourists strolling the city’s historic streets, La Galerie de la Passerelle offers the region a wholly unique panorama. Through a collaboration with the renowned Galeries d’Art Beauchamp, this space will become even more stunning, as the walls of the walkway will now be decorated with incredible works of art all year long.

Entre Ciel et Terre, by Marjorie Roy

With Entre Ciel et Terre, Nouvelle-Beauce born photographer Marjorie Roy showcases her passion for the flight of migratory birds through a selection of works stemming from the extraordinary artistic technique of digital collage. Remarkable textures, contrasts, and colours are born from this process where layering leads to harmonious compositions. Printed on brushed metal plates, the works take advantage of the striking way in which natural light reflects off of metallic surfaces, an effect that will be more visible than ever depending on the height of the sun through the glass walls of the walkway.

The Passerelle

Located on the roof of Le Capitole, the Passerelle is the walkway that links the historic building and the new hotel complex behind it. Running along the fortifications and offering a spectacular view of Old Quebec, the Passerelle offers a unique perspective at any hour, day or night. The inauguration of La Galerie de la Passerelle is an opportunity not to be missed for those who have yet to see the new facilities of Le Capitole Hôtel and rediscover this ever-evolving jewel.

Le Capitole Hôtel

Since its reopening in January 2019, Le Capitole Hôtel has attracted an international clientele eager to experience the warmth of Quebec City through its cultural spirit and events as well as its world-renowned historical character.

It’s the perfect time of the year to celebrate the love that surrounds you! These are our suggestions for romantic activities for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day in Quebec City.

Old Quebec

Go skating at the patinoire d’Youville, in a unique atmosphere in the heart of the entertainment district. It’s just as much fun both day and night!

A romantic stroll through Old Quebec is a must. You will find lots of boutiques and cafés along the way where you can spend some time and warm up! There are also several bakeries for those who want a little something sweet during the afternoon or later in the evening.

Le Capitole Hôtel

For the ultimate romantic Valentine’s Day, offer your better half a stay at Le Capitole Hôtel!

The jacuzzi pool, open all year long, offers you a spectacular view of the Laurentians.

To relax, there is also a massage service, which can come to your room. 

Share a bottle of champagne or your favourite sparkling wine at the Clubby Bar. The fireplace sets the scene for a very romantic rendezvous. 

Our concierge service is also at your disposal for any little extras or special requests. 

With its spectacular décor, Le Capitole Hôtel is the perfect place to propose to that someone special. Our rooms, suites and penthouses offer several possibilities, some with a view of Old Quebec or the iconic Château Frontenac. They all have large windows for a maximum of natural light.

During your stay, share a special meal for two at one of our two restaurants, Il Teatro or BŌ Cuisine d’Asie, that are sure to titillate your taste buds. Celebrate love and good company!

Cooking courses

Why not take a cooking course? You will leave with a full tummy and lots of tips to use at home! The site https://www.ateliersetsaveurs.com/en/ offers something for everyone.

Museums

The museums aren’t too far away either! See what’s on at the Musée de la Civilisation or the Musée de Beaux-Arts for both a romantic and educational outing!

Les concerts Candlelight

See the list of Candlelight concerts! These concerts lit only by candles envelope you in a warm, cozy atmosphere.

Strom Spa

For the ultimate in relaxation, an outing to the Strom Spa is a must. A good massage, thermal experience and peaceful atmosphere is what this wellness centre, located on the promenade Champlain, offers you.

Spectacles aux alentours

For entertainment, we suggest you attend a show at the Théâtre Capitole, the Diamant or the Grand Théâtre. ​​They are all close to Le Capitole Hôtel, and you can see what’s on by clicking on their respective names.

For active couples who would like add outdoor activities to their stay, here are some suggestions for winter sports to enjoy nearby!  

Les Plaines d’Abraham

Only 15-minute walk from Le Capitole Hôtel, you will find the famous Plaines d’Abraham. In addition to being historical site, it is also an ideal spot to enjoy several outdoor activities. In the winter, you can cross-country ski, fatbike, jog, snowshoe, skate (opposite the Musée des Beaux-Arts) or simply walk and admire the view of the river. More than 11.5 km of cross-country ski trails, a round-trip snowshoe trail of almost 4 km, and 6.7 km of walking trails are at your disposal at no cost. For those who would like to rent equipment, head for the skaters’ chalet at the Anneau de glace des plaines d’Abraham during opening hours. 

Downhill skiing and snowboarding

For downhill skiing and snowboarding fans, several mountains are within a 20-minute drive from the hotel. No matter which mountain you choose, you’ll find runs for all skill levels.

Credit : Gabriel Rancourt

• Le Relais, 429 m high, 20 minutes away 
• Stoneham, 632 m high, 30 minutes away
• Le Mont-Sainte-Anne, 803 m high, 55 minutes away

Tobogganing at the Terrasse Dufferin

Credit : OTQ

Since 1884, this iconic structure in Quebec City has been open to the public every winter. The toboggan run is located on the Terrasse Dufferin, behind the magnificent Château Frontenac. It’s fun for young and not so young! At the top you will enjoy a complete panorama of the river, from the île d’Orléans to Quebec City’s South Shore.

Les Sentiers du Moulin

Credit : Andy Vathis

Les Sentiers du Moulin are located only 30 minutes away from Le Capitole Hôtel. These trails are very popular for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fatbiking. Snow-covered fir trees make for a magical décor, but you’ll definitely want a hot bath in your suite after enjoying your favourite activity!

Ice fishing

Credit : https://www.quebec-cite.com/

To ice fish near Le Capitole Hôtel, go to the Vieux-Port where you can fish directly on the Bassin Louise. Equipment is provided: jigging rods, which have a shorter handle than traditional fishing rods, and for the kids tip-ups, which are lines fixed to a piece of wood that don’t have to be held.

Skating

Credit : André-Olivier Lyra

Skating is fun for everyone! There are three rinks nearby where you can skate for free. You can even see the one in the carré d’Youville from your room, depending on the view from your window! 

• Patinoire au carré d’Youville 
• Patinoire Pointe-aux-Lièvres
• L’anneau de Glace, on the Plaines d’Abraham 

After enjoying yourself outdoors, come warm up with a drink at the Clubby Bar! It’s the perfect spot for a fun après-ski experience! Do you need to relax? Have a comforting hot chocolate in your room, and take a nice hot bath! 

Credit : André-Olivier Lyra

See our article A Magical Winter at Le Capitole to learn about all the wonderful seasonal activities available!  

Credit: Fred C. Würtele, BAnQ Québec

In 1902, the American architect Walter S. Painter was selected to design the performance venue, then called the Auditorium de Québec. After its inauguration the following year,  audiences could attend Vaudeville and variety shows, amateur and professional theatre as well as opera performances, both in French and English.

On March 29, 1918, in the midst of the First World War, a riot broke out as an estimated 12,000 people gathered in the Place D’Youville to protest against conscription for Canadian men between the ages of 20 and 35. The registration offices, located in the Auditorium, were ransacked and set ablaze by rioters. Firefighters were able to contain the fire and limit damage to the building.

In 1927, the American architect Thomas White Lamb redesigned the venue to accommodate up to 2,000 people. Then, in 1930, the Auditorium partnered with the film distribution company Famous Players, which changed the venue’s name to the Capitol (and yes you read correctly, without an e). At that time, talkies were increasingly replacing silent films. In addition to the cinema, many classical and popular singers came to perform, as well as the Grands Ballets Canadiens.

In 1935, the radio station CKCV, already on air for the past nine years, moved to the third floor of the Capitol, where it stayed until 1974.

The Capitol was witness to several historical events. Examples include the gala evening on October 9, 1951 held in honour of Princess Elisabeth and her husband the Duke of Edinburgh, as well as the 1953 world premiere of Alfred Hitchcock’s film I Confess, shot in Quebec City the year before. 

Competition from new suburban theatres and new media heralded the decline of the Capitol, which was forced to close its doors in 1981. Three years later, the building was designated a heritage site to protect it. Another three years went by before the Capitol was designated a Canadian National Historic Site by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. 

In 1992, thanks to a group of promoters, the Capitol once again became part of the cultural sector, and its name was changed to Le Capitole. The building was transformed into three distinct spaces: a 1,100-seat theatre to offer various types of shows in a cabaret format, a 40-room boutique hotel, as well as a restaurant. A fourth floor was added to complete this visionary project. The reopening was grandiose: a gala hosted by Quebec actors Rémi Girard and Marc-André Coallier thrilled the public! The event featured dozens of Quebec and international artists, including Céline Dion, Michel Sardou, Robert Charlebois and Alys Robi, accompanied by the Orchestre symphonique de Québec. This first show presented at the Théâtre Capitole since its closing 11 years earlier was a major hit.  

In 2018, significant expansion work began, which would last 18 months. Faced with stagnant show sales, the owners had no choice but to re-evaluate their business model. The solution was to increase the peripheral offer. The hotel went from 40 to 108 rooms, including suites and a penthouse, to become an impressive five-star hotel complex with nine floors. The new glass-covered addition, north of the historic building, offers breathtaking views of Old Quebec and the Laurentians.

The work included upgrades to the heritage building, as well as expanding and modernizing the two-story Ristorante Il Teatro. Private lounges were added, as well as a multi-purpose function room called Le Confessionnal (in honour of Alfred Hitchcock), and a champagne bar called le Clubby Bar.

Since these major changes in 2018, Le Capitole Hôtel has been welcoming an international clientele. Everyone is immediately charmed by the building’s historic character and the beauty of its views of the fortified city. With the mission of proposing the best five-star hotel experience in Quebec City, Le Capitole Hôtel offers its clientele exclusive specials and an unforgettable stay that lives up to its grand history!

German Christmas Market

 The German Christmas Market, from November 24 to December 23, is a must, year after year. Local producers and artisans come together to offer their vast choice of products. You will find them at five different locations in Old Quebec, all close to Le Capitole Hôtel. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit! There will also be a puppet theatre on site for both the young and the young at heart to enjoy.

Shows and concerts

Let the magic of Christmas carols enchant you! Holiday programming only comes once a year! See Blue Christmas – Elvis Experience at the Théâtre Capitole. At the Grand Théâtre, enjoy Art de la parole by Fred Pellerin. The Palais Montcalm also offers a selection of sensational shows for the holidays: Chantons Noël : C’est l’hiver by Le Chœur des Hivers and Swing le Temps des Fêtes with Tea for 20’s.

Exhibitions

You have a free afternoon, but it’s too cold outside? Le Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec is presenting the exhibition Evergone until April 2023. There is also the Musée de la civilisation, which is easily accessible from Le Capitole Hôtel. These are a few great ideas for outings, whether with your family, significant other or by yourself. Then end your day in style with a delicious meal and enjoy a quiet glass of wine at Il Teatro!   

Outdoor activities

Make the most of less frigid weather to go skating at the d’Youville rink and enjoy the Christmas lights. Le petit Champlain is also a must for a special stroll to see beautiful Christmas decorations and interesting local shops. Throughout Old Quebec you will find  warming stations with fireplaces and chairs when you can pause and enjoy the magical atmosphere. Equipment rental is available.

Not very comfortable on skates? Opt for a walk on the beautifully decorated streets close to the hotel: 

• Rue du Petit-Champlain and Place-Royale
• Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville
• Place D’Youville
• Grande Allée
• Avenue Cartier
• Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
• Place Jean-Béliveau

Clubby bar

After a long stroll, come relax and have a drink at the Clubby bar. Its welcoming fireplace is the perfect backdrop for romantic tête-à-têtes.

See our article Ideal Canadian Winter Sports Activities for outdoor winter activity ideas! 

Festival d’Été de Québec from July 6 to 16

Canada’s largest outdoor music festival hosts legends who perform on the Plaines d’Abraham site, which can welcome over 80,000 people. The FEQ is more than a hundred thousand festival attendees, 250 shows, international stars and all types of up-and-coming artists.

Festival Cigale August 12 & 13

Cigale promises to be an awesome Beachside Beats and Eats experience, beyond a festival, on the fabulous Baie de Beauport Sun Life site. It’s not just a place, it’s a state of mind. Sun. Friends. Good music, very good music in fact. Something to satisfy your hunger, thirst and your desire to enjoy life and an extraordinary day. Cigale, because the sun always shines brighter on the beach!

crédit: André-Olivier Lyra

Grands Feux Loto-Québec from August 1 to 24

There will be eight evenings of activities and magic on the Old Port quays on Thursdays from August 1 to 24!  Don’t miss the magic of the fireworks that will light up the sky and thrill both young and old. Meet at the Place des Canotiers located a few steps away from the hotel. These free music and firework shows attract over 700,000 visitors to both shores of the St. Lawrence River.

Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France from August 3 to 6

What are Les Fêtes? It is a celebration of what America was in the 17^th and 18^th centuries. This year, the event has a brand-new concept:  the TD Treasure Hunt.  Old Quebec City  will transform into an immense playground offering seven historic quests inspired by seven characters from New France.

ComediHa! from August 3 to 27

This festival is an important stop in the global comedy industry. Each year, thousands of festival-goers can attend performances of more than 500 artists and artisans, including stars, up-and-comers, and international artists thanks to a diverse, exciting schedule. Several shows will be presented at the Théâtre Capitole. You’ll be sure not to miss anything if you stay at the hotel.

Le Théâtre Capitole

You couldn’t be closer to the Théâtre Capitole than during your stay at the hotel.  In addition to its impressive architecture, the theatre is an important piece of history, since it is the sole survivor of the lavish theatres built between 1900 and 1930. Take advantage of being so close to attend one of the shows in this superb urban performance venue.

Festibière from August 17 to 20

A brewing event that hosts over a hundred exhibitors to help you discover flavours from Quebec and around world (microbreweries, brasseries, cider mills and more). Le Festibière de Québec, is a summer must! Located in the Old Port, you can easily get there from the hotel. On the agenda: lots of fun in a festive atmosphere—all that’s missing is you.

Fête Arc-en-ciel du 1er au 4 sept

The Quebec City Pride Festival takes place each year over the Labour Day weekend in the heart of more than 400 years of history and romance.

Festival celtique de Québec 8 au 10 septembre

Next September, this festival invites you to celebrate the Celtic influence in America! Though music, culture and sports, discover what we have in common with the Celtic peoples, particularly the Irish, Scots and Bretons. Let yourself be swept off your feet by the only French-speaking Celtic festival in North America.