Sherbrooke - Things to Do in Sherbrooke in June

Sherbrooke in June

June weather, activities, events & insider tips

June Weather in Sherbrooke

21°C (71°F) High Temp
8°C (47°F) Low Temp
109 mm (4.3 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is June Right for You?

Advantages

  • Festival season peaks with Festival de Magog (June 13-22) and numerous outdoor concerts utilizing the perfect 21°C (71°F) afternoon temperatures
  • Lac des Nations reaches ideal swimming temperature of 20°C (68°F) by mid-June, with 14+ hours of daylight for extended outdoor activities
  • Tourist crowds 40% lower than peak summer months, meaning shorter waits at Musée de la nature et des sciences and easier restaurant reservations
  • Parc du Mont-Bellevue hiking trails are fully accessible after spring snowmelt, with wildflowers blooming and 500m (1,640 ft) elevation views crystal clear

Considerations

  • Rain occurs 10 out of 30 days with afternoon thunderstorms that can disrupt outdoor festivals and cycling tours along the Magog River trail
  • Morning temperatures of 8°C (47°F) require layered clothing, making packing more complex for travelers from warmer climates
  • Black fly season peaks in early June, making forest hiking uncomfortable without proper insect protection until mid-month

Best Activities in June

Lac des Nations Waterfront Activities

June marks the start of swimming season with water temperatures reaching 20°C (68°F). The 3.5 km (2.2 miles) shoreline trail offers perfect conditions with minimal crowds and blooming gardens. Morning mists create dramatic photography opportunities, while afternoons are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.

Booking Tip: Watercraft rentals typically cost CAD $35-50 per half day. Book online 3-5 days ahead during festival weeks to secure equipment. Look for operators offering weather guarantees during the rainy season.

Eastern Townships Wine Tours

June coincides with vineyard blossoming season across the region's 20+ wineries within 30 km (18.6 miles) of Sherbrooke. Cool mornings are perfect for cycling between vineyards, while the 70% humidity enhances wine tasting experiences. Vignoble de l'Orpailleur and similar estates offer optimal tasting conditions.

Booking Tip: Wine tour packages range CAD $80-150 per person including tastings and transportation. Book 7-10 days ahead as June is prime season. Seek tours with indoor tasting rooms for rainy day alternatives.

Parc National du Mont-Orford Hiking

The 45-minute drive from Sherbrooke leads to trails fully accessible after snowmelt. June offers bug-free hiking after mid-month, with clear 881m (2,890 ft) summit views on the 60% of days without rain. Wildflower meadows peak in late June, creating spectacular photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Park entry fees are CAD $8.50 per adult daily. Guided nature walks cost CAD $15-25 per person. No advance booking needed for hiking, but guided programs fill up 5-7 days ahead during peak wildflower season.

Magog River Cycling Tours

The 25 km (15.5 miles) Estriade cycling path connecting Sherbrooke to Magog offers perfect June conditions with tail winds and minimal precipitation in early morning hours. The flat terrain and rest stops every 5 km (3.1 miles) make it ideal for all fitness levels before afternoon storms arrive.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals cost CAD $25-40 per day with helmet included. Book 2-3 days ahead during festival season. Choose operators offering pickup services if caught in afternoon thunderstorms.

Old North Ward Historical Walking Tours

Sherbrooke's historic English-speaking district comes alive in June with perfect 21°C (71°F) temperatures for exploring Victorian architecture. The 2 km (1.2 miles) self-guided route takes 90 minutes, with indoor venues like Musée des Beaux-Arts providing rain shelter every few blocks.

Booking Tip: Self-guided maps are free from tourism office. Guided tours cost CAD $12-18 per person and run twice daily during June. Book Easttimor-day unless visiting during festival weeks when advance booking recommended.

Marché de la Gare Culinary Experiences

June brings peak local produce season to Sherbrooke's indoor public market. Strawberry season starts mid-month, while early summer vegetables from surrounding farms create optimal sampling conditions. The covered market provides perfect rainy-day activity with authentic Quebecois specialties.

Booking Tip: Market visits are free, food costs CAD $5-15 per specialty item. Cooking classes run CAD $45-65 per person and book up 4-5 days ahead. Visit Tuesday-Saturday mornings for best vendor selection.

June Events & Festivals

Mid to Late June

Festival des Traditions du Monde

Sherbrooke's premier cultural festival features 150+ international performers across 20 venues. Street food vendors, Kampala, and outdoor concerts take advantage of June's mild evenings. The festival transforms downtown with free outdoor stages and ticketed indoor performances.

June 23

Fête Nationale du Québec

June 23rd celebrations include massive outdoor concert at Parc Quintal with local and national Quebecois acts. Street parties along Rue Wellington Sud feature traditional foods, music, and dancing. Free events run from 2pm to midnight with outdoor activities weather dependent.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof rain jacket with breathable lining - afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly and last 20-45 minutes
Layered clothing system: t-shirts for 21°C (71°F) afternoons, fleece for 8°C (47°F) mornings
Waterproof hiking boots for trail conditions that remain muddy until mid-month after snowmelt
SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 8 during 14-hour daylight period requires frequent reapplication
Insect repellent with 30% DEET minimum - black fly season peaks in early June forest areas
Quick-dry pants for cycling and hiking that can handle 70% humidity levels
Compact umbrella specifically for exploring downtown during market visits and festivals
Moisture-wicking base layers - humidity makes cotton uncomfortable during active pursuits
Waterproof phone case for lake activities and unexpected downpours during outdoor festivals
Warm hat and gloves for early morning hiking starts when temperatures hover at 8°C (47°F)

Insider Knowledge

Festival vendors accept cash only - ATMs downtown charge CAD $3.50 fees, but Desjardins credit union locations offer free withdrawals to visitors
Locals start outdoor activities at 7am to avoid afternoon thunderstorms - follow their lead for best weather windows
Parking downtown costs CAD $12-15 daily during festivals, but free Park & Ride shuttles run from Université de Sherbrooke campus every 15 minutes
Restaurant terraces close covers at first sign of rain - make indoor backup reservations during festival weeks when popular spots fill quickly

Avoid These Mistakes

Underdressing for morning temperatures - many visitors pack only for afternoon highs and suffer through 8°C (47°F) mornings
Planning outdoor activities after 2pm without rain backup plans - 60% of June afternoons see thunderstorms
Booking accommodations downtown during festival weeks without researching noise levels - outdoor concerts run until 11pm with street parties continuing later

Activities in Sherbrooke