36th annual edition
of the Tour des Arts
A celebration of creativity in the Eastern Townships, from July 12 to 20
July 11, 2025
For its 36th edition, the Tour des Arts returns from July 12 to 20, 2025, transforming the Eastern Townships into a vast landscape of artistic and human discovery. A true cultural institution, this event invites the public to step inside the studios of more than 35 artists and artisans, to explore the richness of local creativity, and to enjoy an immersive experience in a region renowned for its beauty and vibrancy.
A Unique Artistic Journey
The concept of the Tour des Arts is simple: for nine days, visitors travel throughout the region, from village to village, meeting creators along the way. Painters, sculptors, ceramicists, woodworkers, photographers, jewellers, and textile artists open their studios, sharing their works, techniques, and creative worlds. This close connection encourages exchange, learning, and a deeper understanding of the creative process, far removed from the formality of traditional galleries.
Each studio becomes a space for dialogue. Visitors can ask questions, observe the artists at work, and sometimes even try their hand at certain techniques. For many, it’s a chance to discover fine crafts, understand the inspirations behind a piece, and perhaps even leave with an original creation.
The Group Exhibition at Arts Sutton
The Tour des Arts kicks off at Arts Sutton, where a group exhibition brings together one work from each participating artist. This showcase allows visitors to spot the styles and creative worlds that attract them, plan their route, and be surprised by the diversity of talent on display. The exhibition opens on July 10, with a vernissage on the evening of July 11, before the studios come alive starting Saturday, July 12.
A Rich and Festive Program
The Tour des Arts is also an invitation to savour the culinary delights of the Eastern Townships. Throughout the tour, restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and local producers welcome visitors. Whether it’s for a coffee break, a gourmet meal, or discovering local products, the region is full of places to explore. This blend of art and gastronomy enhances the experience and showcases local know-how in all its forms.
An Event Rooted in the Community
Since its creation, the Tour des Arts has aimed to bring the public closer to artists and to support the cultural vitality of the Eastern Townships. The event encourages buying local, fosters dialogue between creators and art lovers, and helps establish the region’s reputation as a leading cultural destination.
Playful and educational activities are planned for children, encouraging artistic awakening and discovery of fine crafts.
The benefits are numerous: boosting the local economy, increasing the visibility of artists, developing cultural tourism, and strengthening the community fabric. Many artisans speak to the importance of the Tour des Arts for promoting their work, expanding their clientele, and building lasting connections with the public.
One of the Tour des Arts’ greatest strengths is its welcoming and accessible atmosphere. The event free, open to everyone, and an interactive map makes it easy to plan your route, locate studios, venues, and culinary partners. Whether you’re an art lover, a collector, a family looking for activities, or simply curious, everyone can create their own itinerary according to their interests and pace.
‘The event is free, open to everyone, and an interactive map makes it easy to plan your route.’
The diversity of disciplines represented ensures a rich and varied experience, with each visit offering new discoveries and favourites. The bucolic landscapes of the Eastern Townships—mountains, lakes, and picturesque villages—add to the magic of the event.
36th Edition of the Tour des Arts
The 36th Edition of the Tour des Arts promises to be a memorable edition, true to the spirit of openness, sharing, and excellence that has made its reputation for over three decades. More than just a studio tour, it embodies the meeting of artists, their territory, and a public eager for discovery and authentic emotion. Over the years, the Tour des Arts has established itself as a pillar of regional cultural life, helping the Eastern Townships shine far beyond their borders.
For anyone looking to experience something truly unique, support local creativity, and soak up the distinctive atmosphere of Estrie, mark your calendar for July 12 to 20 for a journey into the heart of Quebec creativity. Visitors can pick up the detailed Tour des Arts brochure at local tourist offices and shops, or download it online.
For more information, visitors can consult the official brochure and the region’s tourist offices:
Sutton Tourist Office • 1 800 565-8455
Potton Tourist Office • 450 292-4403
Brome Lake Tourist Office • 450 243-1221
Feature images courtesy of Tour des Arts
