Wendake: a unique cultural immersion at the gates of Quebec City

Wendake: a unique cultural immersion at the gates of Quebec City

Just a few minutes from downtown Quebec City, Wendake is an essential Indigenous destination. Here, the Wendat Nation invites you to discover a living and authentic culture, carried by a rich heritage and a welcoming community. Whether for a family outing, a romantic getaway, or a trip with friends, Tourisme Wendake offers a complete experience: cultural activities, gastronomy inspired by tradition, craftsmanship, nature, and history.

Onhwa’ Lumina: a magical nighttime experience

A true favorite among visitors, Onhwa’ Lumina transforms the forest into a fairytale universe. This nighttime trail, designed by Moment Factory, extends over 1.2 km and combines multimedia projections, music, and lighting to immerse the public in the world of the Wendat Nation. Each station along the path is an encounter with stories, symbols, and legends. More than a show, it is a sensory immersion that delights both children and adults.

Practical information:

Duration: about 1 h 15
Accessible year-round, in every season
Perfect for a family outing, a romantic activity, or a moment with friends

Must-Sees!

A visit to the Huron-Wendat Traditional Site is not to be missed. Discover the longhouse, traditional dwellings, and ancestral know-how. Guided by passionate animators, visitors dive into Wendat history and customs. Demonstrations and interactive activities complement the visit to better understand the richness of this culture. Also add to your itinerary the Huron-Wendat Museum, which showcases objects, stories, and temporary exhibitions. Since 2024, a brand-new permanent exhibition has been presented, offering a renewed perspective on Wendat history and culture. The museum enriches the visit by providing a discovery that is modern, interactive, and deeply rooted in traditions.

Finally, year-round, don’t miss the Myths and Legends activity, presented in the national longhouse Ekionkiestha’. This activity brings Wendat and First Nations legends to life thanks to storytellers. Between traditional tales, soundscapes, and an enveloping atmosphere, it is a unique cultural experience that charms both children and adults.

The Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations and local gastronomy

Extend your stay at the Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations, a unique establishment offering upscale accommodations where modern comfort meets cultural immersion. On the culinary side, the restaurant La Traite is a reference in Indigenous cuisine. Guests enjoy dishes inspired by traditions, prepared with local products: game, fish, wild herbs, and forest berries. La Sagamité is another must-visit address. This family-owned business, firmly rooted in Wendake, is renowned for its famous flambéed potence and great classics like smoked salmon and grilled meats. Adding to this is the restaurant Yahwatsira’, which offers creative and contemporary cuisine inspired by Wendat culture. And for a more casual gourmet break, the snack bar L’Usine à Frites completes the local offering.

Artisans and shops: craftsmanship to bring home

It is impossible to visit Wendake without discovering its artisans. Wendat craftsmanship is known for its refinement: snowshoes, moccasins, jewelry, decorative objects, painted paddles, and contemporary creations.

Among the musts:

Onquata’ and its unique artistic paddles
Gros-Louis Handicrafts, a classic for traditional objects
Yawinonh, for modern creations inspired by culture
Épices du Guerrier, a local company that has become a true Quebec success story
Hutte de Médecine Étoilée, for artisan creations inspired by tradition and well-being

Each object is more than a souvenir: it is a piece of history and culture to bring home. And let’s not forget Librairie Hannenorak: an independent bookstore in the heart of Wendake, specializing in Indigenous literature and works by First Nations authors. It is an essential cultural stop, perfect for extending discovery through reading. Finally, if you cannot visit in person, many Wendake artisans now offer their products online: Bastien Industrie, Onquata’, Épices du Guerrier, Yawinonh, Gros-Louis Handicrafts, Kabir Kouba Inspiration, and Bases Essentielles… Wendat culture is just a click away.

The International Pow Wow: a cultural celebration

Every summer, Wendake hosts the International Pow Wow, an event that attracts thousands of visitors. Over one weekend, Indigenous dancers, musicians, and artisans from Quebec and beyond gather to share their traditions in a festive and family-friendly atmosphere. A vibrant experience, combining performance, craftsmanship, and authentic encounters.

Nature to discover differently

Wendake is not only about culture: it is also about nature. Nearby, the Corridor des Cheminots offers a multi-use trail perfect for biking, walking, and rollerblading. For water activity enthusiasts, Canot Légaré—the oldest canoe rental company in Quebec—lets you explore the Saint-Charles River and its peaceful landscapes. Don’t miss Kabir Kouba Falls either, an impressive natural site in the heart of Wendake, as well as the linear park of the Saint-Charles River, perfect for enjoying lush trails accessible in every season.

Why visit Wendake?

Because here, every visit is an authentic encounter. Wendake is not a frozen backdrop, but a living Nation that shares its history, culture, and worldview with openness and pride.

It is a complete destination:

Immersive experiences like Onhwa’ Lumina
Cultural visits at the Huron-Wendat Traditional Site, Huron-Wendat Museum, and the Myths & Legends activity
Unique gastronomy (La Traite, Sagamité, Yahwatsira’)
Exceptional artisans and boutiques
Gathering events like the International Pow Wow
Accessible and diverse nature (Corridor des Cheminots, Canot Légaré)

Practical information

Location: Wendake, just 15 minutes from Quebec City

Access: easy by car, parking available

Conclusion

Wendake is much more than a tourist destination. It is an immersion in a timeless culture and a meeting with a proud and welcoming people.

Come discover Wendake: at the gates of Quebec City, but at the heart of a millennia-old society.