Until its tenth and final edition in 2007, the Festiglace was the biggest climbing gathering on the planet and the event par excellence for winter outdoor enthusiasts. It attracted the climbing elite as well as alpinists from all over the world. Over the course of those 10 years, nearly 40,000 people were able to admire the beauty of the Île aux Raisins site located in Pont-Rouge, renowned for its cascading ice flows and chossy rock along the Jacques-Cartier river.

In February 2020, Festiglace celebrated its return after more than a decade away. Driven by a new volunteer organizing team, the event reconnected with its roots and brought its community back together. Since then, it has continued to reinvent itself, fueled by the same passion for climbing, the outdoors, and sharing unforgettable experiences.

Over the years, successive volunteer organizing teams have taken the reins, each bringing its own energy, ideas, and expertise to keep Festiglace alive and ensure its continued success. Behind every edition are passionate individuals, dedicated volunteers, and committed partners who work together to make this event a unique and welcoming gathering.

Against a spectacular backdrop, a vibrant atmosphere, and a range of fun activities, the world’s top climbers come together with regional and national outdoor enthusiasts, as well as families from Portneuf and Québec City. More than just a sporting event, Festiglace has become a place for connection, discovery, and sharing, where a passion for climbing and a love of winter outdoor activities are passed on to new generations.

Festiglace at a Glance

• 10 editions held through 2007, before the event returned in 2020
• More than 40,000 participants since its inception
• Nearly 40 elite climbers gathered each year
• Around 8 renowned speakers each year
• Approximately 45 partners and collaborators involved each year
• Nearly 90 volunteers helping make the event a success each year
• Several generations of volunteer organizing teams working together over the years to keep the Festiglace spirit alive
• A shared passion for climbing and winter outdoor adventures, at the heart of every edition
• Thousands of connections, discoveries, and smiles throughout the years

And the smiles? We’ve lost count!