Village Québécois d'Antan

Village Québécois d'Antan is one of the most immersive family experiences accessible from Montreal — a living-history village that recreates life in 19th-century Quebec with remarkable authenticity. Located in Drummondville, about 1.5 hours east of Montreal, the village is worth the drive for families who want to give their kids a tangible connection to Quebec's heritage.

The village consists of over 70 authentic period buildings, most of them original structures that were relocated and restored on the site. A general store stocked with period goods, a blacksmith's forge, a one-room schoolhouse with slate boards, a church, a farm with heritage livestock, and homes furnished with period-accurate items create a complete village environment. Walking through it genuinely feels like stepping back in time.

What brings the village to life is the costumed interpreters. Stationed in buildings throughout the village, these guides stay in character and demonstrate traditional crafts and daily activities — blacksmithing, weaving, bread baking, candle making, wood carving, and more. They are skilled at engaging kids, adjusting their demonstrations based on the age and interest level of their audience.

Many activities are hands-on: kids can try grinding grain, playing traditional games, or participating in simple crafts.

The village operates primarily as a summer attraction, open Wednesday through Sunday during the season (typically late June through Labour Day, with some extended dates). July and August have the fullest programming. The property is large and wooded, giving visits a pleasant, natural atmosphere — it does not feel like a sterile museum.

In December, the village transforms into the Illuminated Village — a stunning nighttime experience where the entire property is draped in artistic light installations. The buildings, trees, and pathways glow with projected light and color, creating a magical wintertime atmosphere. It runs on select evenings (weekends in early December, nightly from December 20-31, excluding Christmas Day, 5-10 PM) and is a completely different experience from the summer visit.

For families making the 1.5-hour drive from Montreal, consider combining with other Eastern Townships attractions. Granby Zoo is roughly on the way, and the surrounding area offers wineries, cheese farms, and beautiful countryside. Pack a lunch or plan to eat in Drummondville.

The village is an outdoor attraction with unpaved paths, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Strollers are manageable on the main paths but may struggle on some of the narrower trails. The full visit takes 3-4 hours if you explore thoroughly and watch multiple demonstrations.