Melting snow also means the return of hiking. Enthusiasts will be thrilled to pull their favorite pairs of boots out of the closet and set off to explore new trails. Marvel at the beauty of the Outaouais waterfalls in the spring, when the water flow is at its peak. And hiking naturally means a weekend of camping! Discover the region’s campgrounds and reserve your spot today. Plan ahead—some campgrounds are very popular during the summer. Sunny days make you want to enjoy a cold beer! Head to one of our microbreweries to sit back and socialize over a cold beer, or stock up to enjoy later in the comfort of your own home. Are you more of a cocktail lover? No problem! Discover spots that are brimming with creativity when it comes to crafting sublime refreshments. Non-alcoholic options are also available to help you quench your thirst. Spring is the perfect time to relax at one of the spas in the Outaouais. Whether you’re looking to pamper your body, enjoy a relaxing massage, or experience thermal treatments like nowhere else, let yourself be lulled by the tranquility of the Outaouais. Live in the moment to the fullest and find peace of mind at North America’s largest spa or on an urban rooftop!

Spring also brings rainy days. Don’t panic! The Outaouais region is full of indoor activities that will appeal to every member of the family, no matter their age. Discover the Rond-Point Milieu de Jeux, a place where children can create memories that will stay with them for the rest of their lives—and where you can relive your own childhood! In the Outaouais, it’s a pleasure to have a good laugh, dance to live music, and watch thought-provoking plays. Comedy, music, or theater… Thanks to their exceptional acoustics, comfortable seating, and iconic stages, the theatre venues of the Outaouais promise you unforgettable evenings. And with the diverse programming offered by our various venues, all you have to do is pick up a ticket—or two—to see your favorite artists. Take a tour of the region’s art galleries and meet the artists behind your favorite works. Why not treat yourself to a bit of shopping? Stroll through unique boutiques in search of your next treasure!

April is the perfect time to treat yourself to maple products at sugar shacks in the Outaouais region, or by making a reservation at one of the area’s top restaurants, known for their delicious brunches. Take advantage of the return of warm weather to plan a gourmet picnic featuring the delicious products from Fromagerie Montebello. Treat yourself to their artisanal cheeses, such as the famous Rebellion 1837 or the savory Tête à Papineau cheese, paired with fresh bread and local charcuterie. Settle into a park to savor this outdoor feast and enjoy the unique flavors of the Outaouais. The dairy shops are slowly starting to open their doors! Let yourself be tempted by the delights at ChocoMotive, which offers artisanal ice cream and sorbets. Their homemade caramel and chocolate sundaes are simply decadent! Starting April 3, get ready to drool over the various flavors of sorbets and homemade ice cream at the La Cigale ice cream shop. Treat yourself to one of four flavors of ice cream sandwiches made with cookies baked on-site. For a special occasion, order an ice cream cake or tart. The shop also offers vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options. For coffee lovers, take a break at Biscotti & Cie, a charming café in the heart of the village of Chelsea. Sit by the fire or on their terrace with good company to savor your treats. You’ll find everything to satisfy your appetite: delicious sandwiches, pastries, wood-fired pizzas, and drinks.

The Outaouais region is also home to several chocolate shops that the whole family will love—you’ll be spoiled for choice. So kill two birds with one stone and support local businesses by sampling their chocolate treats. From April 3 to 6, join the Easter Festival at Ferme L’Éco des champs. Solve puzzles with your family, visit the animals, and sample chocolate from Béatrice et Chocolat. On April 4, head to Chutes Coulonge Adventure Park and stock up on chocolate during The Easter Egg Hunt. Don’t forget your baskets! Enjoy some quality family time by participating in outdoor activities and then treat yourself to a barbecue.

On April 18, head to the Bar de L’Encan for Tribute to Nirvana – April Hate Live at Bar de L’Encan! Enjoy an evening filled with emotion and nostalgia, sing your heart out, and relive the band’s greatest hits. Get your tickets now and celebrate the legendary band’s repertoire. On April 25, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Minotaure, a festive show will take place featuring the bands Bon Enfant and Choses Sauvages. On April 30, revisit the French classics of Joe Dassin during a musical evening in his honor at the Le petit bar à vin. Take the opportunity to taste a selection of wines from private imports and share a charcuterie platter featuring local products.

On April 5, join us for an event in the Art from the Archives series, an initiative of Library and Archives Canada. This year, discover Canada’s landscapes through the eyes of artists and explorers. During the workshop, create a watercolor landscape alongside artist Diane Groulx. The activity is free, and all materials are provided. Register now—space is limited. On April 4, visit the various exhibitions at the Canadian Museum of History and spend an afternoon with your family exploring the brand-new activity Cool History: Hockey. On April 11 and 12, La Principale se sucre le bec returns to Old Aylmer! Come meet 50 exhibitors and discover maple-flavored products. Kids can enjoy inflatable attractions, face painting, and plenty of activities. A juggler, a petting zoo, and L’As des Jeux will also be on hand to entertain the whole family. On April 17, Guillaume Pineault will be performing a test run at Le Rituel restaurant as part of a dinner-and-show package. Get your tickets!

From April 2 to 4, head to the Hilton Lac-Leamy for La Grande Braderie de Gatineau. Discover clothing and accessories from Quebec designers at discounted prices during this event. Take this opportunity to refresh your wardrobe with unique pieces while supporting local fashion. On April 4, the 2nd edition of the Easter Market will take place in Shawville! Come discover a variety of artisans and take the chance to do your shopping for Easter Monday. From April 9 to 19, attend the 26^th edition of the Outaouais Film Festival, with the talented actress, screenwriter, and casting director Véronique LeFlaguais serving as honorary chair. This year, Gabon takes center stage. Screenings will be held at Cinéma 9, the Salle Desjardins de la Petite-Nation, the Hotel V, the Maison du Citoyen, the Théâtre de l’Hôtel-Casino Lac-Leamy, and the Canadian Museum of History. Discover feature-length and short films, fiction, animation, and documentaries. Attend training sessions, participate in workshops, and network with members of the film industry. Check out the full program for all the details! On April 10 and 11, La Grande Fripe, organized by Habitude Design, is back for its 4^th spring edition—the largest second-hand clothing and accessories sale in the Outaouais region. From April 10 to 13, head to the Complexe Branchaud-Brière and attend the 5^th edition of the Outaouais Auto Show. Attend conferences and meet with automakers. You’ll be able to test ride electric bikes on an indoor track, and an outdoor track will be available for test drives in electric vehicles. Attend conferences and meet automakers. You’ll be able to test ride electric bikes on an indoor track, and an outdoor track will be available for test drives in electric vehicles.

For even more suggestions, check out the full schedule on our Events page.

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Summer is fast approaching. So now is the time to book your fishing trip from a wide selection of outfitters in the Outaouais. Here is a list of places to go fishing in the region! A top destination for anglers.