Village Québécois d'Antan

Step back two centuries and experience the authentic rhythm of old Quebec life at this unique open-air living museum. Located in the city of Drummondville, this attraction is a large-scale reconstruction of a 19th-century settlement, sprawling across a picturesque area of about 2.8 km².

This extraordinary location in Canada brings together more than 70 historical buildings, including cozy farmhouses, a school, a church, and even a traditional sugar shack. History literally comes to life here: characters in authentic costumes walk the streets, and workshops are buzzing with activity, demonstrating the ancient crafts and daily life of modern Quebecois ancestors.

Of particular value are the 18 economuseums (écomusées) dedicated to traditional professions, where every guest can watch a blacksmith or a baker work in real-time. In the evening, the space transforms into the "Parallel Village"—a captivating multimedia show with video projections and light installations that turn the historical scenery into a magical world.

To plan your visit or inquire about special events, you can use the official contact details for this open-air museum.

The immersion begins with a stroll through cozy streets where you can peek into 46 fully furnished buildings. Be sure to visit the traditional bakery to taste fresh bread baked in a wood-fired oven, and watch the carpenters and soap makers who are eager to share the secrets of their craft. The costumed guides don't just lead tours; they live their roles, preparing dinner on old stoves or going about 19th-century daily chores.

For families, there are plenty of activities: children can take part in a treasure hunt or play in special water areas. Those who love romance and slow-paced excursions will enjoy rides in horse-drawn carriages or vintage cars, allowing for a comfortable view of the entire site along the banks of the Saint-François River.

As dusk falls, the atmosphere changes—during certain seasons, the mystical Haunted Village or the innovative Parallel Village opens. These evening programs offer a look at history through the lens of modern technology: light installations and original soundtracks create a wonderful sense of the past meeting the future.

Getting to the historical park is easy, as it is located just a few minutes' drive from the city center at 1370 Rue Montplaisir. For those traveling by car, the most convenient route is via Montplaisir Street; spacious parking and a convenient tunnel for access to the main grounds are provided for visitors.

If you prefer public transport or a taxi, the trip from the city center or the nearest train station will take about 10–15 minutes. The site is nestled in a picturesque location on the banks of the Saint-François River, making the journey itself a pleasant part of your trip.

For outdoor enthusiasts, scenic cycling and walking trails lead to the village through the natural area of Voltigeurs Park. This is a great way to combine sightseeing with a breath of fresh air.

The history of this unique destination began in the 1970s with the extensive restoration of Trent Manor. Under the leadership of historian Claude Verrier and with the support of local residents, the abandoned building became the spark that ignited a project to preserve national heritage.

In 1975, the initiative gained provincial status. The idea was not just to create a museum, but to recreate a living Quebecois village from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, complete with all its customs, crafts, and folklore. Realizing the project took years of work and significant funding, which allowed dozens of authentic buildings from across the region to be moved and restored.

By 1977, the first shovel hit the ground on the banks of the Saint-François River, and the project quickly grew with new structures: schools, barns, a cheese factory, and a sawmill. Particular attention was paid to detail—from selecting antique furniture to recreating the traditional costumes worn by the guides today.

Over the decades, the village has become one of the region's most popular tourist attractions. To accommodate the flow of guests, the infrastructure was expanded in the 1980s, including the construction of a large service center and new parking areas, all while maintaining the atmosphere of an authentic past.

To fully enjoy the 19th-century atmosphere and see all 70 buildings, we recommend setting aside at least 3-4 hours for your visit. However, many guests prefer to spend the whole day here to leisurely stroll through all the streets and interact with the costumed characters.

If your plans include attending evening multimedia shows, dining at the traditional bakery, or participating in interactive workshops, your stay could extend to 6 hours. The large territory and abundance of small details in the houses and economuseums make this an ideal place for slow exploration.

Please note that the site's operating hours are seasonal and may change depending on holidays and special events. Currently, the following visiting hours are in effect:

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Wednesday — Sunday: Closed

It is recommended to check the schedule on the official website before your trip, as during the summer period and Christmas holidays, the village often opens its doors for daytime and special evening programs.

Exploring the surrounding area after your visit to the historical village will help you further experience the hospitable atmosphere of the region. Nearby, you'll find many cozy establishments where you can discuss your impressions over lunch or dinner.

For those traveling with children or looking for active entertainment, there are also interesting parks and entertainment centers close by.