What to Buy in Quebec: Authentic Souvenirs You’ll Only Find in Canada’s French Province
What to Buy in Quebec: Authentic Souvenirs You’ll Only Find in Canada’s French Province
The province of Quebec in Canada boasts charming cobblestone streets and unique French-Canadian flare. Old Quebec (Quebec City) and Montreal are the best-known cities and there are lots of quaint villages to discover far and wide. Beyond the breathtaking scenery and welcoming locals, visitors will find truly authentic gifts that reflect the province’s rich culture and French Canada’s character. Here, we share authentic souvenirs you’ll only find in Quebec!
How Sweet It Is: Maple Syrup Everything
Over 70% of the world’s maple syrup is produced in the province of Quebec. La Belle Province is often referred to as the maple syrup capital of the world. Using traditional methods, Quebecers tap sugar maple trees every spring. The rich, amber sap is brought to boil and concentrates the natural sugars. Visitors can find glass battles in the shape of a maple leaf, traditional metal tins, maple candies, and spreadable maple sugar. What a uniquely Canadian, super sweet and sustainable souvenir from Quebec!
Ice Wine: Quebec’s Signature Dessert Wine
Vin de glace is a Quebec delicacy. The ice wine is a sweet drink produced from naturally frozen grapes on the vine. The province’s cold winters create the perfect conditions for production. The golden dessert wine is considered a premium artisanal product, as the entire process from start to finish requires patience and meticulous craftsmanship. Oftentimes the flavors are described as honey, citrus, apricot, or peach.
Indigenous and First Nations Art
Visitors can find one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry and paintings from Indigenous artists at fairtrade markets in Quebec. Wood carvings depict scenes of ice fishing and animal spirit guides. Bears, wolves, eagles, and turtles carry particular significance. Look for pieces by Quebec’s Innu, Wendat (Huron), and Mohawk artists.
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Say Cheese: From Monastery to Market
The province of Quebec boasts more than 400 varieties of cheese. Cheese-making techniques started back in the 19th century. Monks introduced classic European techniques and now Quebecois monks continue the tradition. Oka is an iconic creamy cheese with a full, nutty flavor. Le Riopelle de l’Isle is the first triple cream cheese produced in Quebec, with notes of hazelnut and mushrooms. Ask at the cheese shop (fromagerie) if they have vacuum-sealed packaging, as this is the easiest to travel with.
Lavender Goodies: Unique Wellness Souvenirs from Quebec
Quebec’s Eastern Townships, Saint-Eustache, and Île d’Orléans are regions quickly becoming known for their elite lavender products. The province’s climate is ideal for thriving plant production. Visitors can find lavender essential oils, infused creams, massage oils, and soaps.
THN Traveler Tip: Check out Bleu Lavande and La Maison Lavande for some of our favorite products! Be sure to book a visit to La Maison Lavande’s lavender fields if your trip is in July or the beginning of August. You’ll get to enjoy the fragrant flowers in bloom!
