In the mid-20th century, the Société Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Québec was responsible for organizing the June 24 festivities. Every year at this time, the organization prepared a huge parade that marched through the streets of Québec City. People would follow along and gather at the end of the route to listen to a speech, as shown in this photo from 1949.

1949 - 1963

Je me souviens: Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day commemorative activities in Québec City from the 1940s to the 1960s

The Société Historique de Québec invites you to delve into its archives to explore photographs of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day festivities in Québec City from the 1940s to 1960. Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, which falls on June 24, was traditionally a saint day celebrated by French-speaking Catholics. In the middle of the 20th century, the vocabulary shifted to the more secular “national holiday.” The event has since evolved to be a unifying and inclusive celebration for all Quebecers. The words may have changed, but the festive spirit remains! Major gatherings, songs and bonfires abound in this album that immerses you in the festivities! Perhaps these photos will stir up some memories!

Speech after a Saint-Jean-Baptiste parade

Auteur inconnu In the mid-20th century, the Société Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Québec was responsible for organizing the June 24 festivities. Every year at this time, the organization prepared a huge parade that marched through the streets of Québec City. People would follow along and gather at the end of the route to listen to a speech, as shown in this photo from 1949.

Chronoscope Can you find this site on the map? (unilingual French for a limited time)

Depicted period: 1949

Source: Société historique de Québec © Société historique de Québec - Société Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Québec Fonds. - Date: 1949

OPEN