cultural hike , decked out in the colors of thefall

Rooms Where the “fall ” Comes to Life

Whether it's a large venue, a country bar, a bohemian café, or an alternative music venue, there's always somewhere to go out in Petite Nation.

In Papineauville, the Salle Desjardins, Les Productions Les 2 Valléeswill host an impressive lineup of artists. Mario Jean, Chantal Lamarre, Marie-Chantal Toupin, Réal Béland, Souldia, Louis-José Houde, P-A Méthot, Guy Nantel, Guillaume Pineault, and José Gaudet are on the program. Comedy, music, and memorable evenings are in store.

In Saint-André-Avellin, St-André is featuring tribute shows and well-known artists from the Quebec music scene, including a tribute to AC/DC, One Love Project—which celebrates the music of Bob Marley—and Bernard Adamus. In Montebello, Le Bankeur – Les Brasseurs de Montebello delights music lovers, while in Ripon, the Coopérative Place du Marché liven up Fridays with its happy hours and various special events. Check out the schedules and set out to discover the performance venues in Petite Nation.

Museums and exhibition centers that will surprise you

In Plaisance, the Quebec Folk Art Center opens the doors to a world where the imagination comes to life. Astonishing sculptures, immersive installations, larger-than-life figures, and everyday objects ingeniously transformed come together to create an experience that is as surprising as it is deeply human.

Behind every creation lies a story, a passion, and a unique way of seeing the world. Whether you’re an art lover, naturally curious, or looking for something different to do, this tour promises to make you smile, reflect, and dream. The Center is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., through October 11.

In Montebello, the Centre d’exposition Napoléon-Bourassa will present, from September 19 to November 15, the work of Ilnu artist Sonia Robertson. Known for her immersive installations, she uses light, sound, photography, video, and words to create spaces imbued with memory, spirituality, and a connection to the land.

Take advantage of your visit to check out La Fouinerie, the Center’s gift shop. With jewelry, pottery, books, greeting cards, original artwork, reproductions, wooden items, and handmade crafts, you’re sure to leave with a piece created by one of its member artists.

Continue your exploration in the area around La Jument Verte, in Val-des-Bois. This unique cultural venue welcomes visitors into a warm and inviting setting where the arts, social interaction, and creativity take center stage.

The Manoir-Papineau National Historic Site will welcome visitors on Saturdays and Sundays. Explore the elegant home of Louis-Joseph Papineau, discover the daily life of one of the most influential families of its time, and stroll through an estate steeped in history.

Step Inside the Workshops

Each studio opens up a different world. You walk in, take a look around, and sometimes chat with the artist. Behind every work lies a creative process, a journey, and a passion. It’s often these simple, authentic encounters that leave the deepest impression.

In Montebello, discover the Masters of Montebello, a group of artists and artisans who showcase their unique skills. Among them is Marie-Jeanne Potelle, a cabinetmaker, transforms wood with her talent for woodturning, while at La Shed Qui Tourne, ceramicist Suzanne Ryan creates one-of-a-kind pieces in a warm and creative atmosphere.

Before you go, be sure to check the hours of operation or make an appointment. Then, let your curiosity be your guide and set out to explore the local workshops, shops, and creations.

Artworks That Get Some Fresh Air

In Petite Nation, culture can also be discovered outdoors—along a trail, in a park, or on a village street.

In Ripon, the route "Ensemble naturellement" brings together eight works integrated into the landscape around the Place du Marché Cooperative. Freely accessible, they reveal themselves differently depending on the light, colors, and seasons.

In Papineauville, the works created as part of the symposium Imaginer, semer, récolter adorn public spaces and add an artistic touch to visitors’ exploration of the village.

In Val-des-Bois, the course The Energy of the Lièvre features eight sculptures inspired by the Lièvre River, its history, its power, and its flow. Installed near the community center, they form a true open-air gallery where contemporary art interacts with the natural landscape.

Keep an eye out: other works of public art are scattered throughout the villages, each telling, in its own way, a part of the region’s history and identity.

Walking Through the Heart of History

Several heritage tours and interpretive trails invite you to explore the region in a different way, at the rhythm of the colors offall.

In Duhamel, the Route des Zingueswinds througha vast landscape shaped by nature. Its scenery, terrain, and scenic overlooks offer a chance to learn more about the region’s history and geology, all while enjoying a hike that’s particularly spectacular this time of year.

In Montebello, the heritage trail takes visitors on a journey to discover houses and buildings that bear witness to the village’s development. The interpretive signs tell the stories of the families, notable figures, and events that have shaped its history.

In Thurso, the Singer Trail, opened in 2025, follows part of the former route of the Thurso Nation Valley Railway. The trail highlights the importance of the railroad, the timber industry, and the Singer company in the town’s development.

A forest that lights up at dusk

To round out your cultural hike in style, stop by the Omega Park to discover Oniro, a nighttime installation created by multidisciplinary artist Michel Lemieux.

For about an hour, 17 light and sound installations come to life along a walking trail through the forest. Projections, original music, light displays, and narration transform the night into a poetic adventure where imagination and nature come together.

An immersive and contemplative experience to enjoy with family, friends, or as a couple, starting at sunset.

A Few Cultural Events You Won't Want to Miss at the 2026 fall

In addition to the programming presented in the performance venues, several events will liven up the season.

• Ripon Trad Festival – September 17–20
  Traditional music, dance, social gatherings, and a festive atmosphere await you in the heart of Ripon.
• Festival Médiéval de Montpellier – Caravanes & Saltimbanques – September 25–27
  Immerse yourself in a world filled with colorful characters, artisans, musicians, and street performers.
• The One-of-a-Kind Experience – October 10
  A cultural market featuring workshops open to everyone, where you can discover local creations and explore different art forms.