As Canadians, we might be a tad biased, but winter really is the best.
From the tasty hot drinks to the best sports (hello, hockey!), there are so many things that make this time of year so special. However, we have the ultimate reason why you should bundle up and enjoy the best of what this snowy season has to offer: The Québec Winter Carnival.
With an outdoor amusement park, ice slides, dog sled rides, parades and more, it’s totally worth the trek up to Québec City. Running from January 27 to February 12, it’s one of the world’s largest winter carnivals and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Seriously, if it’s not on your 2017 travel bucket list, you need to add it ASAP.
Here are the top five reasons why we’re packing our bags for Québec City in the New Year.
1. Explore the history of Québec City
Did you know that Old Québec is the only walled city north of Mexico? While Montreal often gets a lot of attention, Québec City’s mix of old and new makes it a must-see destination for travellers of all kinds. Its cobblestone streets and historic buildings are perfect for walking tours, but if you want to explore the natural wonders of the area, there are waterfalls, glacial valleys, and canyons just 20 minutes from the city centre.
2. Take in the colourful night parades
Everybody needs a little dose of fantasy once in a while. The Winter Carnival Night Parades will take over the streets of Québec City with giant animals and iconic characters. Bundle up and grab a cup of hot chocolate to really do the parade right.
3. Indulge in some traditional Canadian treats
In our opinion, no Québec Winter Carnival experience is complete without a delicious beaver tail pastry. Or if you want something a little more traditional, head over to the sugar shack for authentic maple treats. And to wash it down? A glass of Caribou will certainly do the trick – the sweet drink composed of vodka, brandy, sherry and port really packs a punch.
4. See art created before your eyes
Embrace your inner art major at the International Snow Sculpture Competition. A long-held tradition of the Winter Carnival, this highly anticipated event will bring the best artists from around the world to Québec City – and visitors will have the chance to see them in action. There will also be graffiti muralists creating new works of art each weekend at Bonhomme’s Ice Palace.
5. Channel your inner kid
From giant foosball and bowling, to ice slides and floor hockey, there are plenty of activities at the Winter Carnival that will make you feel like a child again in the best possible way. There will also be an axe throwing range this year, which is certainly not kid-friendly, but sometimes you just need to live life on the wild side.
So this winter, don’t hide out inside avoiding the ice and snow – embrace it at the Québec Winter Carnival. Trust us, with all these activities to enjoy, you’ll warm up in no time.
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