What's on the Outaouais June 14-20
There’s a hint of summer in the air. It’s about time! Check out our suggested activities to make the most of it: belt out a few country tunes, go hiking in the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, or relax on the warm sand at Lac Simon.
ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
Val-des-Monts Country Festival
Looking for a great party? Head for Val-des-Monts! The 9th annual Val-des-Monts Country Festival will feature nearly two dozen live country music shows by such talents as Carole Ann King, Julie Daraiche, Stéphanie St-Jean and Lendemains de veille. Don’t miss the ’80s costume contest on Thursday night—there’s a prize for the best outfit!
42 Déziel Road, Val-des-Monts
June 12-16
Wristband for Thursday, Friday or Saturday: $25. For Sunday: $15. For all 4 days: $65.
Insect Festival
Come celebrate world biodiversity and ecology in Gatineau. The Insect Festival is an opportunity to handle cute little critters that are rarely seen (like praying mantises and bearded dragons!), marvel at the butterfly aviary, attend workshops and go on treasure hunts. While you’re there, you can visit two festivals in one trip: the Ecosphere, Quebec’s largest free ecological festival, is happening on the same site.
Leamy Lake parking lot (behind the Réno-Dépot)
June 15 & 16 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Regular: $10. Ages 4 to 17: $5
Clan warfare!
The Canadian War Museum’s latest special exhibition opened on June 7! Highland Warriors traces the origins and culture of the Highland soldier, dating back to the Middle Ages. It features more than 200 artifacts, from broadswords to tartans and bagpipes. A fine excuse to wear your kilt!
Canadian War Museum – 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa
Until January 12, 2020
Adults: $17, ages 3 to 12: $11
Admission fees to the Canadian War Museum include access to special exhibitions and all the Museum’s galleries.
Hiking in the Vallée
The Vallée-de-la-Gatineau wants to become the region’s top spot for hiking. So far, nine trails have been refurbished and are ready to welcome tourists eager for wide open spaces. From Blue Sea to Grand-Remous by way of Ste-Thérèse-de-la-Gatineau, you’re invited to explore the area’s “Off the Beaten Path” hiking trails. North of Wakefield, you’ll discover a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna!
Vallée-de-la-Gatineau
Free!
The website features downloadable trail maps.
A day trip to Lac Simon
When you think of the Lac Simon Tourist Resort, you probably think of family camping. But did you know that you can spend the day there and enjoy the facilities? Picture it: two kilometres of sun-warmed sand to bask on, the crystal-clear water of the lake for swimming or sailing. You can rent a kayaks or paddle board on the spot; you can also rent bicycles (free for children) or go for a hike. A stress-free vacation day—sounds like a fine plan!
Lac Simon Tourist Resort
Day pass: Adult – $10.44, ages 6–17 – $5.22
Looking for more ideas for summer fun? Consult the event calendar on our Facebook page or read our blog post about new summer activities in the Outaouais!
