Québec Events

International Flora Montréal 2006. (06/16/2006 - 10/09/2006) Inspired by the trend of baby boomers' interest in gardening, the International Flora Montreal features much more than sophisticated gardens. The emphasis is also on designers who use innovative approaches in creating showcase gardens, water gardens, small gardens, avant-garde gardens, and street gardens. "Garden Cards" are provided to all visitors in hopes that garden enthusiasts will apply new ideas in their own homes. (Montréal. 1(514) 282-0222 or www.floramontreal.ca)

18th annual Franco Folies de Montréal (06/08/2006 - 06/17/2006) This one-of-a-kind event offers 50 indoor performances and some 150 outdoor shows, the latter free of charge. It is the largest musical event in the French-speaking world taking place in Montreal the world's second largest French-speaking city. Recognized worldwide for its cultural diversity, lively music, and street art, more than 1000 artists, musicians, singing stars and new talents from about 20 countries entertain more than half a million spectators each season. (Downtown Montréal. 1(514) 876-8989, toll-free 1-888-444-9114 from Canada or www.francofolies.com)

Montréal JazzFest. (06/29/2006 - 07/09/2006) A major Canadian musical event in the heart of downtown Montréal, JazzFest features musicians from 20 different countries. Ten outdoor stages provide about 500 performances, 350 of which will be completely free of charge. In addition to the official performance schedule, attendees will be surrounded by music at all times during the festival. Fresco street fun includes wandering Dixieland bands, roving drum sections and other performers creating a musical experience unlike any other. (Downtown Montréal. 1(514) 288, 6730, toll-free 1-888-515-0515 from Canada or USA or www.montrealjazzfest.com)

39th annual Québec City Summer Festival. (07/06/2006 - 07/16/2006) Popular for nearly four decades, this festival has been drawing crowds with its unique "love of life" atmosphere. Jugglers and mimes entertain visitors on street corners. Costumed quartets and puppeteers showcase their skills between shop facades. For 11 days the city graciously entertains guests. Intimate theatres and outdoor stages showcase hundreds of performers in and around Old Québec City, all within easy walking distance. (Old Québec City. 1(418) 529-5200, toll-free 1-888-992-5200 or www.infofestival.com)

Just for Laughs. (07/01/2006 - 07/31/2006, Note: English venues run 07/13/2006 - 07/23/2006) It's no joke; this is the world's largest comedy festival, with more than 2,000 shows, starring artists from 20 countries, who perform in both English and French. The line-up features the biggest names in comedy and the brightest up-and-coming talent. In addition, well-known performers often make surprise appearances. The festival showcases all forms of comedy, including film and theater. Bonus points: The Street Arts portion offers shows and events in a European-style street theater atmosphere. A Just for Laughs Museum includes a comedy hall of fame, plus a fantasy section, where feats of magic and illusion are demonstrated and discussed. (Montréal. toll-free 1-888-244-3155 or 1(514) 845-4069, ext. 6044 or www.hahaha.com)