1001 Things to Do in Maskinongé This Summer

From Louiseville to Saint-Alexis-des-Monts, passing through Sainte-Ursule and Sainte-Angèle-de-Prémont, or from Yamachiche to Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc, via Saint-Sévère and Saint-Paulin, the country roads of Maskinongé lead you to unique places where you will create memorable moments with family, friends, or as a couple.

This summer promises many wonderful discoveries in the region. Here are some suggestions at the start of the season so you can make the most of it.

A Summer Full of Colors

Visit the trails at Parc des chutes de Sainte-Ursule, Parc Héritage Carcajou, the site of the Calvaire de Saint-Élie-de-Caxton mountain, and Baluchon Éco-villégiature, among others, to enjoy the beauty of the forest, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

At Chez Mel & Nico in Saint-Élie-de-Caxton, the treehouse and other unusual accommodations offer a unique lodging experience close to nature.

At Passion Lavande, the fields of roses, lavender, and sunflowers are a hit, attracting visitors eager for beautiful Instagram-worthy photos. In addition to admiring the flowers, you can shop for products in their year-round boutique. Take the opportunity to visit other businesses on the Tournée des artisans de Saint-Sévère.

At Snack Bar Chez Mélo in Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc, don’t miss the festive and colorful Taco Tuesdays! Lots of fun in store!

A Summer Full of Music

Cultural activities are in full swing this summer, with lively music programs and colorful exhibitions.

In Parc du Tricentenaire, Louiseville, Sundays come alive with concerts under the gazebo organized by Découvertes MusicART. Also in Louiseville, the 10th anniversary of Jeudis centre-ville in July will be a festive event with many guest artists and a diverse lineup. In Maskinongé, keep an eye on the Jeudis d’août at Parc intergénérationnelle Louis-Riel/Marie-Anne Gaboury, featuring bands like Jimmy and The Cadillacs.

From June 21 to 29, the Festival de la truite mouchetée will be in full swing with an exciting program! Take the chance to see the public art exhibition Truites mur à mur by local artist Caroline Rondeau: huge surreal photomontages installed on the exterior walls of several houses along rue Notre-Dame, the main street, over about a kilometer. The exhibition will be on all summer.

Also, Festival Noël dans l’Caxton will dazzle from July 5 to 27 at Camping Bivouak and downtown, with guest artists like Nicolas Pellerin, Stéphanie Bédard, Steeve Hill, Zébulon, and more!

At La petite Place des Arts this summer, new activities are offered in the Fenêtres sur l’art garden, such as midday music sessions and movie nights.

A Summer Full of Flavors

Visit farm stands like Les Jardins Ricard, agrotourism farms like Le Rieur Sanglier or Les Couleurs de la terre, local product grocery stores, and bakeries like Les Sœurs Clément, Le Pain Griffé, or Deno Fruits & Légumes to get the best of our producers’ work! Why not try self-picking, like the haskap berries at Aux Multiples Jardins in Saint-Boniface?

The chefs at Auberge Saint-Mathieu and Comptoir de l’Auberge in Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc continue to amaze us! Recipients of several awards including a Michelin Green Star, the Auberge offers a feast for the eyes and palate. Also, try the pizza at Pizzéria Shewenegan in La Mauricie National Park.

On the Route des alcools Maskinongé, discover the expertise of local winemakers, distillers, and microbrewers. Visit seven businesses for tastings and, of course, bring home a few bottles! Stop by Microbrasserie Nouvelle-France, Brasserie Dépareillée, Domaine Gélinas, Vignoble Prémont, Domaine Beauchemin, La Ferme du Loup, and Domaine au tour de table.

Throughout the region, events highlighting local products happen all season long—we call them Rendez-vous gourmands. Mark the dates on the calendar to know when to stock up on fresh local goods! Indeed, Maskinongé is naturally gourmet!

For a full and inspiring summer, check our event calendar and website regularly for more ideas.