Québec City (Carnaval de Québec)

While you’re in Québec City, there are any number of delights to partake of, and I can only mention five in my list below. Be sure to check back over the next two weeks as I review two Québec City attractions that aren’t a direct part of Carnaval: the Aquarium du Québec and the Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel). I was particularly taken aback by how many of Québec’s attractions are free to the general public – our guide showed us countless pools, parks, pathways and other amazing family venues that are available for both residents and tourists to enjoy at no charge. Now that is the true mark of a city with a commitment to being family-friendly!

Kid’s Comments: AWESOME! We had such an amazing time in Québec City it’s hard to pick what was the best part. In the end, our favourite things were the ice slides, snow rafting and tubing. We also had lots of fun at the Carnival Opening Ceremonies, the dogsled race (la Grande Virée) and the Day Parade. While we were in Québec City we also got to do a bunch of other fun things, including a visit to the Québec Aquarium and the Ice Hotel, which were both awesome! 

Top 5 Things You Should Know About Québec City and Carnaval de Québec:

1. Bonhomme Carnaval and his Ice Palace: The first Ice Palace was built in 1955 as a home for the popular Bonhomme Carnaval. Between 1979 and 1992, the Ice Palace was replaced by a structure made of snow, but in 1993 the Ice Palace returned. It is truly breathtaking to see this beautiful castle at night, lit up by coloured lights and hopping with music. We got to enjoy this spectacular sight each night from our hotel room in the Hilton Québec.

2. The Plains of Abraham: The site of the historic battle between French General Montcalme and his English rival General Wolfe, the beautiful public park area of the Plains of Abraham is transformed into a true winter wonderland during Carnival. We spent an enchanting couple of days exploring all there is to see and do here, both day and night.

3. The Events: Where to start? We were treated to so many amazing events I could never cover them all in one review. The ones I recommend you don’t miss are the Grande Virée, the Day Parade (a new event this year) and the International Snow Sculpture competition.

4. The Old Town: What to say? Vieux Québec is so special that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Treasure, and for good reason. Walking down the narrow and winding streets with the sounds of French in your ears, you could swear you had traveled across the Atlantic – but you’re still in Canada. Québec City celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2008, making it the oldest city in North America. Come and enjoy this treasure of history and European flair, all without having to update your passport. 

5. Food and Drink: While there are a number of dishes that are uniquely Québecois, it’s not all pea soup and poutine in Québec. The city’s restaurants definitely have a European flavour, and you will find several entirely authentic French bistro type restaurants, along with many excellent bakeries, crèperies and cafés. As for drinks, there are a couple of unique specialties during Carnival that I highly recommend you try. Caribou is a mulled wine beverage served either hot or cold (I recommend the hot Caribou, especially on a cold day!). Sortilege is a maple-flavoured whisky that is so sublime it surpasses description. All I can do is urge to to try it. Strongly. It was probably the best thing I tasted during my stay in Québec. But don’t miss the chance to try other regional specialties, notably tire sur la neige (maple syrup cooled in snow then rolled onto a stick like a super-excellent popsicle). Through the magic of modern technology we don’t have to wait for spring and the sugaring season for these wonderful maple-inspired treats, so take advantage!

A family trip to Québec City is a wonderful idea any time of year, so don’t feel you have to restrict yourself to attending Carnival. The people are warm and welcoming, and you’ll surely enjoy yourself just as much during a spring, summer or autumn visit.

For more information about Québec City, visit www.quebecregion.com and for more information about Carnival, visit www.carnaval.qc.ca.