Celebrate literature in all its glory during Québec en toutes lettres!

From October 12 to 22, literary arts will take over Québec City’s public spaces during the Québec en toutes lettres festival, an extraordinary celebration of literature that’s sure to capture the imagination. This festival perfectly embodies the cultural effervescence and literary vitality of the province’s capital, recognized as a UNESCO City of Literature.

For its 14th edition, the festival will explore the connections between memory and territory, bringing together over 200 artists with a program featuring everything from gourmet stops at bookstores to meetings with writers. Here are a few events and activities you won’t want to miss! (Please note that the activities below and the associated web pages are offered in French only.)

Capturing memories of our elders through comics

In a unique combination of comics and dance, Les bienveillant.e.s is a project midway between exhibit and live art that draws inspiration from the lives and memories of four elders. These rich memories are expressed through revealing portraits displayed in four wooden cubes which “read” like a comic strip, offering an immersive dive into these stories infused with authenticity. In addition to the free exhibition, two dance performances – on October 14 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. – will set these stories in motion, with a choreography driven by a soundtrack reflecting the testimonies of these kind-hearted elders.

Transforming urban spaces through literature

Ceci n’est pas une pub invites you to experience a unique literary journey through the heart of Québec City. On October 14, 15 and 16, stroll along Saint-Jean and Saint-Joseph streets with a guide to discover the works of over 50 artists. During this tour, you’ll venture into a world where illustrations, banners, poetry, comic strips and audio clips transform everyday life and enhance urban spaces. This literary immersion is offered for free if you book your spot in advance!

When martial arts and literary arts meet

Six artists from different literary disciplines will go head to head in a unique oratory contest inspired by martial arts and wrestling competitions during the Championnat des arts littéraires mixtes. With their art as their only weapon, the competitors will take to the ring at the Centre Horizon in an attempt to win the public’s support and be crowned champion. Make sure to be there on October 20 at 8 p.m. to find out who the winner is!