After the lengthy, snowy winter, the arrival of Spring in the province of Quebec is a much-needed relief. However, early Spring often brings a mix of cold temperatures and even snowfalls, like a false finish to winter.
But as the days stretch longer and warmer, there’s a noticeable shift in outdoor activities and an increase in festivals across Quebec. In Spring, it's common to see locals in shorts and t-shirts, even at 14°C (57°F). For Quebecers, any temperature above 10°C (50°F) feels pleasantly warm after January and February.
Tourists from warmer regions should still pack for colder weather. Even in mid-June, wearing a beanie can sometimes be necessary in places like Quebec City or Rimouski. Spring in Quebec is unpredictable, so it’s best to never underestimate the weather.
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What Is The Weather Like In Quebec during Spring
In Canada, including Quebec, Spring runs from the spring equinox to the summer solstice. In 2024, Spring starts on 19 March 2024 and ends on 20 June 2024.
Spring starts about 10 days after daylight savings, which means it’s no longer dark at 4pm.
In Canada, including Quebec, the transition from the start to the end of Spring brings a significant change in temperatures and outdoor activities.
At the beginning of Spring, parks and landscapes outside of city centers are generally still blanketed in snow.
However, as the season progresses, warmer and sunnier days melt what’s left of the snow. By the end of Spring, the weather and outdoor experiences often resemble summer, with much warmer temperatures.
Will You See Snow in the Province of Quebec in Spring?
Snowfalls are rare after March, but if you visit in early spring you will likely see leftover snow on the ground.
Snow in Quebec City in the Spring
In Quebec City, you can expect to see snow on the ground until the middle to end of April. Snow is more likely in residential neighborhoods, where excess snow from the streets is blown onto front yards, rather than being taken to snow depots.
Snow in Montreal in the Spring
In Montreal, snow typically remains on the ground until the start of April. Snow melts faster in dense areas, which means places like Mount Royal or Lafontaine Park are more likely to have snow than Downtown Montreal.
the Sugar Season in the Province of Quebec
Sugartime and Sugar shack season in Quebec
Sugar time in the province of Quebec is a special time of the year. Sugar time or the sugar shack season refer to the period when sap is collected from maple trees. This sap, or maple water as we call it, is boiled to make maple products (syrup, toffee, sugar, lollies, etc.).
Best Time for Sugar Shack in Quebec and Montreal
Each sugar season varies in start dates. But sugar time always starts in the spring. The best time to visit a sugar shack is always during March or April.
The sugar shack season hinges on specific weather conditions: temperatures have to rise above freezing during the day and fall below freezing at night. It is these fluctuations in temperature that cause the sap to start dripping.
Production also varies by year, depending on severity of the winter, the timing of temperature changes, etc.
What to Wear during Spring
The clothes you need to pack are vastly different if you visit at the start of spring (late March) versus at the end of Spring (early June).
Every year is unpredictable. Just last year, I was wearing a beanie in Quebec City in early June. It's not the norm, but it happens!
Remember, Montreal is generally warmer than Quebec City, due to its latitude and the fact is it more dense. However, even Montreal can have chilly days in March.
Spring Clothes Packing List (early Spring)
In early Spring, Quebec continues to enjoy snow activities, with icy winds and snowfalls common.
- beanie or toque
- sunglasses
- scarf
- long pants
- t-shirts
- warm jumpers
- snow pants and a snow jacket
- wool socks
- winter boots
- mittens or gloves
Spring Clothes Packing List (Late Spring)
You will likely need to dress warmly early in the day and in the evening but will be fine taking layers off during the day.
- cap (and a beanie or toque too just in case)
- sunglasses
- long pants and shorts
- t-shirts
- warm jumpers
- wind jacket
- long socks and short socks
- shoes
- light gloves just in case (eg. dollar shop ones)
What to do in the Province of Quebec during Spring
