Over 1,000 free activities in Gatineau this summer for all tastes and sectors
Tashi Farmilo
Gatineau is set to make summer unforgettable with its newly revealed "Profite de l'été" program, offering a record-breaking array of more than 1,000 free activities across the city. Running from May 30 to September 29, the program includes a diverse mix of events designed to cater to every taste and interest, ensuring a summer filled with fun and excitement for residents and visitors alike.
The extensive lineup features 442 group classes, 108 performances, 168 library activities, 133 family events, 39 outdoor movie nights, 50 heritage activities, 71 events presented by the Cube culturel – a dynamic, mobile container offering a weekly changing program – and 35 activities specifically for teenagers. Collaborating with over 140 partners and more than 200 artists and cultural figures, Gatineau has crafted a comprehensive and inclusive summer experience.
This year's program introduces several new activities, such as seven introductory evenings to various sports as part of the JEUX-di Olympiques, new physical and recreational group activities for seniors near autonomous living residences, and concerts in collaboration with the Centre intégré de santé et des services sociaux de l'Outaouais (CISSSO) in the backyards of six long-term care centres. Additionally, outdoor movie nights with headphone access for visually impaired individuals and new guided heritage tours celebrating the centenary of "Les allumetières" add fresh excitement to the season. The full schedule can be found on the city's website, gatineau.ca/été, with updates and changes posted on the Facebook group Profite de l'été – Activités gratuites.
The Sentier culturel returns with a 2-kilometre urban art trail in the downtown area, featuring 45 public artworks, including 18 new pieces, eight returning for a second year, and 19 permanent installations. The trail also highlights nine major cultural, heritage, and tourist attractions. New additions this year include guided tours every Saturday morning from June 1 to September 7, various workshops throughout the season, and an interactive mobile app, Chasse aux énigmes, providing an engaging scavenger hunt experience along the trail.
Place Laval continues to be a vibrant hub within the summer program, hosting over 30 performances and leisure activities, including board game nights, quiz evenings, and chess activities, all aimed at bringing the community together and enhancing downtown vibrancy.
The Eddy Street Festival will make its third annual appearance with two editions: a family-focused event on July 6 and an evening celebration on August 9, featuring pedestrianized streets and a variety of cultural offerings in collaboration with local organizations.
The "Ma Place" initiative, part of the city's youth action strategy, provides dedicated recreational, cultural, and social activities for teenagers in four selected parks throughout the summer. This initiative aims to create stimulating environments for teenagers to engage and thrive within their community.
With a robust schedule and a strong community focus, Gatineau’s summer 2024 program promises an enriching and enjoyable season for all.
Photo caption: Gatineau's "Profite de l'été" program for summer 2024 offers over 1,000 free activities, including performances, group classes, and cultural events, ensuring a diverse and inclusive experience for all ages across the city.
Photo credit: Courtesy of the City of Gatineau
