Winter Carnival

Every year in Quebec City there is a winter carnival. It is a long event that lasts two to three weeks at the end of January and at the beginning of February. This particular carnival has returned every year for the last 60 years. It is a big event that lots of people enjoy. The history of this festival goes back to when the province was a territory of France in the 1600's. The villagers from both sides of the river would meet in the middle of the frozen river to have a time of festivities to celebrate the winter. Can you imagine that? They would create a small "village" in the middle of the river for this event and spend several weeks there. Today, the river cannot be allowed to freeze completely due to large ships of cargo and such. But the Quebecois people still celebrate it. And I experienced it for two days.

Most of the festivities happen on the weekends when they will have races and different sports in the snow and ice, but there are still things to do during the week. They have ice sculptures, snow sculptures, snow slides, different races and many events for the kids. It is a very family friendly environment, and I enjoyed that aspect of it. There is also a small Ice Palace where Bonhomme (the carnival's mascot) lives, and a parade of lights and floats. You can find out more about the carnival and the history of it here.

It can be fun, especially if the weather is nice. But it is usually very cold, and only the bravest will join the activities for a full day. I was able to walk around for one evening and watched part of the canoe races the following afternoon. The whole idea of a carnival in the middle of winter is bizarre, but it was quite enjoyable for me.

Game of Thrones throne

Inside Bonhomme's palace

The outside of Bonhomme's palace.

Snow sculpture

Ice sculpture

Canoe races.

If you are ever in Quebec City in the middle of winter, it just might be worth it to check out the carnival. I hope you all have a good and safe winter wherever you are. Stay warm!