Can’t get enough of jack frost? You’re in luck! Québec offers one of the best winter carnivals in the world! Love dressing in boots, snow gloves, and scarves on scarves? Keep reading. Looking for people who enjoy outdoor activities in 24°F weather? Enjoy experiencing the cultural traditions of another country? Then clear your calendar, book a ticket, and pack warm for a once-in-a-lifetime experience (that happens annually). Look what awaits you in the real-life winter wonderland —
Bonhomme
This Carnival first started in 1894, but took a few years off here and there (mostly due to the world wars). When it became an annual occurrence in 1955, Bonhomme — an icon for winter cheer — was introduced to rally people. This 7ft tall, lovable mascot is always at the opening ceremonies on the first night and has an annual tradition of accepting the keys to Québec City from the mayor.
Icy Activities You Can’t Experience Anywhere Else
It’s hard for me to imagine enjoying the ice and snow at night, outside, in freezing weather, but when you find yourself in Québec’s winter wonderland, you can’t help but feel uplifted by the energy and excitement from everyone there! Some activities can change from year to year, like human foosball, but 2020 has a line up that’s sure to entertain everyone in the group! Hockey and axe throwing for athletes, virtual lumberjack competitions, ziplines, a 300ft slide, and so much more.
There’s a great line up for the live concerts this year, but the official language of Québec is French, so non-French speaking people may have a hard time. On top of these unique attractions, there’s also a “Loterie Quartiers & Saveurs,” which gives one lucky person the chance to eat at one of 52 restaurants, every week for one year.
Finally, Carnival Eats & Treats
Usually the best part of going to a carnival or festival of any kind is the edible goodies and if you have to travel to a new country for this event, you’re sure to be introduced to a variety of traditional and modern favorites. Some of the mouthwatering bites that await you in Québec are beaver tails (not made from beavers), poutine, an Oreo Food Truck at Christie North Slope, cheese curds, and my personal favorite, Sugar Shack’s maple taffy. For anyone who read the Little House on the Prairie books, this is when they pour delicious, hot maple syrup on snow. And for those 18 and over, enjoy some caribou, not the animal, but rather the alcoholic beverage similar to mulled wine, served hot or cold.
Explore Québec
Québec’s Winter Carnival starts on February 7th and ends on the 16th. And whether you take this opportunity to explore Québec and its festive culture, or wait until it warms up in the summer, it’s an experience you won’t regret.
