Quebec Winter Carnival

Carnaval de Québec

The Quebec Winter Carnival, or Carnaval de Québec, is a whirlwind of winter wonder set in the heart of Quebec City. This annual pre-Lenten festival, running since 1955, invites you to embrace the frosty glamour of winter with a Quebecois twist. Imagine a world where a seven-foot-tall, 400-pound snowman named Bonhomme reigns supreme, sporting a red cap, black buttons, and a ceinture fléchée, a nod to French-Canadian and Métis style.

Prepare to be dazzled by the twinkling parades led by Bonhomme himself, weaving through a city transformed into a magical kingdom of lights and ice sculptures. The festivities spill into the streets with outdoor parties, where the brave dance away in the crisp cold, showcasing that famous Québécois joie de vivre. Major highlights include the masquerade ball in the grand ballroom of Château Frontenac, sports like ice canoeing and dog-sledding, and not to forget, the iconic bikini snow bath event!

But the Carnaval is more than just frosty fun; it’s a taste of local culture. Sip on Caribou, a hot alcoholic concoction, as you explore the snow-sculpture contests or partake in the free outdoor banquets. It’s a festival where the cold is forgotten, and warmth is found in every smile, every dance move, and every shared laugh. So, pack your warmest coat and your sense of adventure – the Quebec Winter Carnival is an icy extravaganza you won’t want to miss.