As the Christmas holidays approach, a host of activities invite families to experience the magic of the holidays. In the heart of Old Quebec or on the outskirts, outdoors or in the warmth, here are some ideas for outings to amaze young and old alike.
The magic of Woodooliparc
Frima is back at Woodooliparc ! You absolutely have to make the trip to Scott, in Beauce, to (re)discover the popular theme. Like a real Christmas village, the place is simply magical, with its mischievous elves, its magical decor in the middle of the forest and its activities for the whole family. And don't forget Santa Claus, of course!
My advice: don't leave too early! At dusk, the village lights up and becomes even more beautiful.
To visit until December 31.
photo Annie Lafrance
Tell me a story
There's nothing better than a story to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit and a touch of nostalgia.
It is in fact a theatrical and musical show of several tales that the Théâtre Jeunesse Les Gros Becs is offering us this month, with the presentation of Tales to Pass the Time, Tales for All edition , a production of La Vierge folle.
Suitable for families (it's not just for kids!), this sweet and beautiful new version tells different stories that take place on Christmas Eve in Quebec City. We recognize the iconic places, we laugh and sometimes we feel like shedding a tear.
To be seen with the family until December 21.
photo courtesy Les Gros Becs
Browse the German Christmas Market
Until December 23, the German Christmas Market of Quebec offers a host of activities for young and old throughout Old Quebec. This is a German tradition, with a typically Quebec twist, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. Children will love the outdoor shows and will be sure to visit Santa Claus.
My suggestion: take a tour of Old Quebec. Right next to the Market, the Christmas Boutique amazes young and old with its decorations, collectibles and Christmas souvenirs.
Complete your visit at Place D'Youville. Every day in December, the Glockenspiel is projected onto the façade of the Diamant, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Inspired by the immense, iconic century-old bell tower in the heart of Munich, it contributes to the magic of the German Christmas Market in Quebec City. Bring your skates! The Place D'Youville skating rink is open every day and evening.
photo courtesy Le Diamant
Circus in Petit-Champlain
On your next visit to Petit-Champlain, look up to the sky! You can see the tightrope walkers of Flip Fabrique. This new creation by Flip Fabrique is presented three times a day, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in December. The route passes through five lively stations, where contortionists, trampolinists, dancers and tightrope walkers will perform free of charge in front of an audience.
Tales from the Aquarium
There's something new at the Aquarium du Québec . Until Christmas, little ones will have fun discovering the new Aquarium Tale, a Christmas special. ''Le Noël extraordinaire de Mlle Stella'' features a starfish who didn't think she was pretty enough and wanted to shine like the ones that sit atop the fir trees. Starting December 26, the Aquarium Tales are moving outside, to the den next to the polar bear enclosure. This time, it's the tale of Gilbert the polar bear... who gets hives!
In addition to Christmas stories and carols, don't miss out on discovering the ice animals (from December 26).
During the holidays
Light shows at Place Jean-Béliveau
Until January 4, we stroll through the luminous route Plein les yeux et les oreilles at Place Jean-Béliveau and enjoy a moment around the outdoor fire of the welcoming station on site.
Psst! We bring the skates to stretch our legs on the illuminated ice path. Is it cold? We go back to the Grand Marché, to enjoy a good hot chocolate and do some shopping.
The return of Kaleidoscopes
Once the German Christmas Market is over, the entertainment on the sites continues with the Kaleidoscopes event where visual arts, theater, music, performing arts and poetry are presented in different universes from December 27 to 31.
Families will not be left out since throughout the event, the Children's Chalet, located in the Jardins de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, will offer various activities, kaleidoscope-making workshops and storytelling, among others. Admission is free.
A Grand Festive Alley
The Toboggan experience isn’t just for grown-ups! Kids will love taking a free ride on the Ferris wheel (every night starting at 5 p.m.) and dancing at this winter urban music festival that celebrates the end of the year.
photo courtesy Toboggan
The secret to enjoying winter outings with your family is to dress appropriately. Don't forget to pack spare accessories in your diaper bag , a warm blanket to wrap your baby up in, and layers for more sporty activities. And above all, have fun!
Happy Holidays with your family!
xx
On the cover photo, the Frima universe of Woodooliparc. Credit: Annie Lafrance
