Serve up these five Quebec-inspired picnic recipes to celebrate Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day

Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day is the national holiday that celebrates all things Québecois. Though it was first introduced in 1834, it became Quebec’s official holiday on June 24, 1925. It honours Quebec’s distinct heritage, culture, history and language. There are lots of public events like concerts, parades and fireworks but it’s more about families and friends getting together to have picnics, bonfires and bbq. Like with all events from La Belle Province, food is always at the center of everything. Chef Romain Avril helps us celebrate in true French-Canadian style with some delicious food and drink from Quebec. 

Butterfly pea flower gin mule

This drink is very refreshing and easy to make on the go. 

Non-alcoholic negroni

All the delight of a negroni cocktail, but without the alcohol. 

Pea gazpacho

A refreshing cold pea soup with pieces of smoked meat made from a duck magret from Quebec. A drizzle of maple syrup over the top of some crunchy baguette and butter to eat it with. It will be a wonderful appetizer to celebrate Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day.

Duck creton sandwich

A delicious pork spread made with shoulder and onions cooked in pork fat and often served for breakfast on toast. Along with poutine, cretons are part of Quebec’s food history. It resembles French rillette.

Strawberry tartlettes

Did you know that the Canadian maple syrup industry accounts for approximately 75% of the world's maple syrup production, with more than 90% of the Canadian production originating from Quebec? Besides, over half of all strawberries grown in Canada come from Quebec fields, so this recipe has Quebec all over it! Everything can be made in advance, and easy recipe, crowd pleaser, and easy to transport for a BBQ or picnic.