
QUEBEC CITY — I first learned of Carnaval de Québec in Grade 4 French class and fell instantly in love with Bonhomme, the symbol of what bills itself as the world’s largest winter carnival.
I knew I one day wanted to meet the 7-foot tall replica of a snowman who has been the carnival’s ambassador since its start in 1955 and who visits all its activities.
But I had no idea that during my first Carnaval last year I would be wearing a swimsuit in freezing temperatures, about —-20C to be precise, and dancing with Bonhomme on a snow-covered hill in front of an audience.
What else is there to do when one is offered a winter challenge but accept it? When a snow bath was suggested, I didn’t hesitate. I really didn’t know what I was getting into, but that’s part of the fun.
Wearing a swimsuit, winter boots and toque, I joined the group of 50-plus people in a trailer. Forty-five minutes of zumba got us working up a sweat and fogging up the windows.
When I was ready to pass out from the heat, it was finally time to head outside.
Not understanding the French instructions, I followed those with matching wristbands out the door and off to centre stage to dance, laugh and roll around in the snow in front of hundreds of (clothed) onlookers.
…enjoy the rest of this article on thestar.com
© 2016 – 2017, Anne-Marie Marais. All rights reserved.
Leave a Reply