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The history of the Festival d’été de Québec
Since its creation in 1968, the Festival d’été de Québec (FEQ) has become a fixture on the international music scene. What began as a modest local event to promote popular arts has become one of the world’s largest outdoor festivals.
With headliners such as The Rolling Stones, Lady Gaga and Metallica, the FEQ attracts thousands of festival-goers to Quebec City every year, creating a unique musical experience in the heart of the capital.
The origins of the Festival d'été de Québec (FEQ): kicking off in 1968
The Festival d’été de Québec (FEQ) was founded in 1968 by a group of seven artists and several businessmen.
Their goal was to energize Quebec City during the summer months by showcasing the popular arts. At the time, the festival offered an eclectic program of classical music, jazz, opera, poetry and theater(Wikipedia) (FEQ).
In its early years, the FEQ mainly featured Quebec artists, including such iconic names as Félix Leclerc, Ginette Reno, Oscar Peterson and Gilles Vigneault. These early years enabled the festival to forge a solid reputation in the province and attract enthusiastic crowds(FEQ).
The international turn: 1980 to today
Over the years, the FEQ has evolved into a festival of international stature. As early as the 1980s, it began to welcome world-renowned artists, marking a turning point for the festival.
At that time, musical genres such as rap and electro made their appearance and captured the hearts of festival-goers.
Headliners: from rock legends to pop icons
Since its inception, the Festival d’été de Québec has welcomed some of the biggest names in music.
Among the outstanding artists who performed on stage were :
- The Rolling Stones, true rock legends, made FEQ history with an epic concert.
- Metallica, another iconic band that set the Plains of Abraham alight.
- Ex-Beatle Paul McCartney treated festival-goers to an unforgettable performance of some of music’s greatest classics.
- Lady Gaga, one of the queens of pop, brought a touch of glamour and eccentricity to the event.
- The Foo Fighters, with their explosive energy, also left a lasting impression on spectators.
- Elton John, who charmed crowds with his timeless piano ballads
Something for everyone
In addition to international headliners, the FEQ continues to showcase local and emerging artists, offering a unique platform for the discovery of new talent.
Quebec artists who have marked the festival’s recent history include Charlotte Cardin, who captured the hearts of audiences with her spellbinding voice, and Les Trois Accords, ambassadors of the Quebec rock scene.
Each year, the festival presents a varied program, ranging from pop music to heavy metal, electro and folk. In this way, it has become a meeting place for fans from all horizons, offering shows for both families and the most discerning music lovers.
The festival today: an economic and cultural engine for Quebec City
Today, the FEQ is not only an essential cultural event, but also a major economic driver for Quebec City. Every year, it attracts thousands of tourists from the four corners of the globe, contributing to the growth of the local hotel and business industries.
If you’re looking for a unique musical experience in the heart of Quebec City, book your stay at BnB Québec, located close to the festival’s main stages. Take advantage of the opportunity to discover the FEQ’s rich program while staying in comfortable, welcoming accommodation.
The shows that will leave an indelible mark on the FEQ
Among the memorable moments of the FEQ, some concerts will remain etched in history, such as those by :
- The Weeknd, who gave an electrifying performance.
- Kendrick Lamar, one of the biggest names in contemporary rap.
- Neil Young, who brought back a touch of nostalgia with his timeless folk rock.
- Imagine Dragons, a pop-rock band that has won over audiences of all ages with their catchy hits.
The Quebec City Summer Festival, with its 11 days of festivities, is much more than just a musical event. It’s a celebration of music, culture and diversity, which continues to evolve while remaining true to its Quebec roots.
Conclusion
The Festival d’été de Québec is much more than just a musical event. Since its beginnings in 1968, it has evolved while retaining its festive and inclusive spirit.
It has become a veritable cultural institution, attracting internationally renowned artists and music lovers from all over the world every year.
From memorable shows on the Plains of Abraham to musical discoveries in the streets of Quebec City, the FEQ continues to resonate as a must-see event for music and culture lovers.
For more information and to book your stay in Quebec City, visit bnbquebec.com or book directly here.
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