HISTORY

The first winter carnival was held in 1894 as a source of relief from the long cold winters that are often experienced in Quebec. At the time the majority of Quebec's population was Catholic, so it was decided that the end of January would be an ideal time for the celebration with Lent drawing near. Similar to Mardi Gras and Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Carnaval de Quebec originates from religious roots; however, evidence of the religious beginnings is not apparent today. Over the next 60 years the festivities were held sporadically. It was not until 1955 that Carnaval was introduced as an annual event by local businessmen who thought it would help to stimulate the economy during the long winter months. Their prediction was correct: Carnaval draws in over one million visitors each year and contributes greatly to Quebec's prosperous tourism industry.

BONHOMME

Bonhomme, or "happy man," is the ambassador of Carnaval de Quebec. Since 1954, this cheerful looking snowman has been given the keys to Quebec City at the beginning of Carnaval by the city's mayor. Bonhomme boasts a round, jovial face that is sure to make everybody smile and laugh. He also wears a red toque (a knitted winter cap) and an official carnival sash. Bonhomme's first official duty at each carnival is the crowning of the Carnaval Queen, which is followed by a magnificent explosion of colourful fireworks in the night sky and a parade. The parades that take place during Carnaval are exciting and extravagant with marching bands, costumed characters from many French-Canadian stories and legends, as well as intricately designed floats. Bonhomme's official residence is the Place du Palais - a handcrafted ice palace that is located across the street from the parliament buildings. Place du Palais is built over a period of two months and features a different theme every year. Interactive tours of the palace are offered. At night, the palace is lit with blue lights and Bonhomme whispers messages to guests as they pass through his home.

CARNAVAL EVENTS

There is so much to see and do for people of all ages in Quebec City during Carnaval de Quebec. Many of the events are annual, including the most popular traditions such as the International Snow Sculpture Show, La Grand Virée (a dogsled race) and the Canoe Race. The organizers also try to add new events each year to add excitement and variety for those who attend the carnival annually.

Snow and Ice Sculpture

The International Snow Sculpture Show adorns the Plains of Abraham each year during Carnaval with various sculptures of animals, castles, reproductions of famous sculptures and other creative masterpieces. Snow and ice sculpture has been a part of Quebec culture for decades, however, it was not until the 1950s that people began sculpting in public areas for their work to be on display. In 1973 the International Snow Sculpture Show was created. The popularity of this event continues to grow every year. Today, there are three different categories that sculptors can enter: Quebec, Canada and International. More than 50 teams take part in the competition each year representing approximately 30 countries.

La Grande Virée

La Grande Virée

The Canoe Race

The use of canoes, for communication and transportation, was once an essential element of daily life for islanders and people who lived on the shores of the St. Lawrence River. What was once a necessity has now become a popular winter competition. The first canoe race was held in 1895, and since 1955 the race has been a yearly event during Carnaval. The race is divided into three categories: men's competition, women's competition and participation. The course covers a distance of 3.2 kilometres (1.9 miles) along the St. Lawrence River and often includes some difficult terrain - often only the hardiest competitors make it through the course.