Every mid-September, the best cyclists on the planet come to Quebec. The Grands Prix cyclistes de Québec et de Montréal are the only UCI World Tour races — road cycling's top level — held in the Americas. And the best part for a newcomer: watching from the street costs nothing.
The schedule. The Grand Prix cycliste de Québec takes place on Friday, September 11, 2026, on a circuit through Old Québec, around the Plains of Abraham. The Grand Prix cycliste de Montréal follows on Sunday, September 13, 2026, on a demanding course around Mount Royal. Details for each edition are posted on the Grands Prix official site.
A special year. In 2026, Montreal also hosts the UCI Road World Championships, from September 20 to 27, a first in North America in decades. The Grands Prix serve as something of a dress rehearsal: two closely spaced chances to see the world's elite ride in your own city.
How to watch. The races consist of many laps of a single circuit, which means the peloton passes in front of you several times during the day. Set up near the route, on a corner or a climb, and you'll see the riders up close — it's spectacular and completely free. The circuits sit in the heart of both cities, easy to reach by public transit.
Good to know for newcomers. It's an ideal, budget-free family outing: no ticket, a festive atmosphere, and a great way to discover Old Québec or Mount Royal on a celebratory day. Bring something to sit on, arrive early for a good spot, and let yourself be carried by the crowd cheering the riders on every lap.
