We took our first bus ride today with our destination being Parc de la Chute-Montmorency.
Its history is rich and surprising. This site, where an impressive waterfall flows, is intimately linked to Québec's collective heritage. It was the host of significant events at the beginning of New France. Over the centuries, it has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.The falls are at the mouth of the Montmorency River where it drops over the cliff shore into the Saint Lawrence River. The waterfalls are 272' tall, a full 99' higher than Niagara Falls. Wow.One of the monumental events which happened here was the Battle of Beauport, also known as the Battle of Montmorency, fought on July 31, 1759. It was an important confrontation between the British and French armed forces during the Seven Years' War. The attack launched by the British against the French defense line was valiantly fought, and the British soldiers of General James Wolfe retreated with 443 casualties and losses. It was a great victory for New France.Steve is standing in an earthen redoubt. This is a new word for us. It is defined as a temporary or supplementary fortification, typically square or polygonal and without flanking defenses.We were also at Parc de la Chute-Montmorency for Blizz, described as "the perfect meeting between summer and winter - where it's normal to wear your flip-flops with your down jacket." Since we are not here in the Winter, this was an exceptional opportunity for us to experience Carnaval de Québec. After being held intermittently since 1894, the Carnaval de Québec has been celebrated annually since 1955. It is the largest winter festival in the Western Hemisphere."Blizz is a unique way to discover the Québec Winter Carnival as well as the joys of winter in the middle of summer. Experience cool sensations under the dome and in the experimental shipping containers, have fun on an inner tube slide, take a selfie in the Blizzard Box, and more!""The dome is an impressive structure decorated with cushy waves of fabric reminiscent of the northern lights and tons of suspended snowflakes.""Discover the legendary world of the Québec Winter Carnival Parade by climbing aboard Bonhomme’s float, taking a selfie with a statue of the Carnival King himself and even exploring a secret room in the float.""Awaken your inner artist in a fun family activity called Make me a snowflake. The goal is to use fragments of plastic snowflakes to create a sculpture."Here we are with Bonhomme Carnaval, the mascot of the festival, who made his first appearance in 1955. Cute photo op.The Experimental Shipping Containers were a unique component to this fête. "Three immersive experiences have been set up to make you (re)discover the Québec winter and also to experience the festive atmosphere of the Québec Carnival. Your senses will certainly be stimulated!""The winter vortex: A whirlwind that draws you into glacial cold, Nordic winds and powdery snow. A doorway to another season! A music box that lets you play and compose melodies using winter sounds: Skate blades on ice, snow crunching underfoot, piercing wind and other echoes of winter will fill your ears and spirit. The winter party, where you can experience the history, festivities and activities of the Québec Winter Carnival, while you create an arrowhead sash out of light." Yep, I didn't know what any of that was either.
We are continuously amazed at the variety of fun to be had here. One full week of discovery is now complete. We are excited to see what's next!
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