Sherbrooke in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Sherbrooke
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak festival season - Festival des traditions du monde runs mid-August with 40+ countries represented, plus smaller neighborhood festivals every weekend
- Perfect hiking weather with 11-23°C (51-74°F) range - ideal for Mont-Bellevue trails and Parc du Mont-Orford without summer heat exhaustion
- Student move-in energy creates busy nightlife - Université de Sherbrooke students return, filling downtown bars and creating authentic local atmosphere
- Peak produce season at Marché de la Gare farmers market with Quebec blueberries, corn, and tomatoes at lowest prices of the year
Considerations
- Unpredictable rain patterns - 127 mm (5.0 inches) over 10 days means frequent plan changes and soggy outdoor activities
- Student housing competition drives up accommodation prices 40-60% during move-in week (typically August 15-25)
- Morning chill at 11°C (51°F) requires layering that many summer visitors don't pack for Quebec's Eastern Townships
Best Activities in August
Mont-Orford National Park Hiking
August's 11-23°C (51-74°F) range creates perfect hiking conditions without July's humidity. Morning fog at 500m (1,640 ft) elevation clears by 10am, revealing spectacular Appalachian views. Rain creates dramatic waterfalls along trails. Peak wildflower season with trilliums and lady's slippers.
Eastern Townships Wine Tours
August harvest preparation season means vineyard tours include grape sampling and behind-the-scenes cellar work. Cooler weather perfect for outdoor tastings at 15+ vineyards within 30 km (18.6 miles) of Sherbrooke. Many wineries offer harvest volunteer experiences.
Sherbrooke Museum and Cultural Walking Tours
Perfect rainy day backup with 10+ rainy days expected. August features rotating exhibits at Musée des beaux-arts and Musée de la nature. Historic Old North Ward walking tours run rain or shine with covered stops at 1920s textile mills and Victorian architecture.
Magog and Lake Memphremagog Activities
20-minute drive from Sherbrooke to warmer lake microclimate. August water temperature 20-22°C (68-72°F) ideal for swimming and paddling. Morning mist creates mystical photos. Rent kayaks or take scenic boat cruises when Sherbrooke gets afternoon rain.
Quebec Craft Brewery Trail
August marks harvest season for local hops used in Eastern Townships microbreweries. Cool evenings perfect for brewery hopping in downtown core. 8 craft breweries within 2 km (1.2 miles) of each other offer August-specific seasonal brews and outdoor patios.
August Events & Festivals
Festival des traditions du monde de Sherbrooke
Major 5-day international festival featuring 40+ countries with authentic food vendors, traditional performances, and cultural workshops. Takes place in downtown Sherbrooke's parks with both indoor and outdoor venues to handle August rain.
Fête du Lac des Nations
Waterfront festival at Sherbrooke's urban lake featuring local musicians, food trucks, and family activities. Free admission with activities running regardless of weather thanks to covered pavilions.