January 28th, 2011
Life's a Carnaval
Since we can’t beat winter, we’ll beat-back the winter blues by fêting the flurries at the Carnaval de Quebec in Quebec City.
celebrate
It’s a winter wonderland in la ville blanche from January 28 to February 13, with events every day, including everyone’s favourite, the Night Parades on February 5 and 12. It’s mostly free to play on the Plains of Abraham, but picking up an Effigy pass for $12 will get you into a few extra-exciting activities, including the zipline, giant slide, and ferris wheel. But only pure bravery will get you into the snow bath. www.carnaval.qc.ca/en
stay
Past meets present at the ultra-stylish Auberge St. Antoine, built on and integrated with ancient city ramparts. Prominently displayed museum-worthy relics allow you to learn about the old city while sipping a creative cocktail by the fire in the Café Artefact. Come in from the cold to luxuriate in the well-appointed rooms featuring fluffy duvets and swimming-pool deep bathtubs. From $149/night, 8 St. Antoine St, Quebec City, 1-888-692-2211, www.saint-antoine.com
sup
Warm up and refuel with decadent Italian food in a festive atmosphere at Savini restaurant. We started with a luscious prosciutto paired with summer sweet melon ($15) followed by a satisfyingly decadent risotto with foie gras and mushrooms ($25), with wines paired by the glass by our savvy waiter. After cracking the sweet shell of the creamy crème brulée ($7), we were ready to get back out there and be the snow angels that we are. Savini, 680 Grande Allée East, Quebec City, 418-647-4747, www.savini.ca
shop
Bundle up for the weather by creatively layering new togs from the fabulous Boutique Esther P. We took a brief sojourn from the snowy celebration to shop for stylish separates by Ella Moss, James Perse and Velvet. We may love the Bonhomme, but we don’t want to dress like him. Esther P, 873, St. Jean St., Quebec City, 418-704-7774, www.estherp.com
For behind-the-scenes photos of Carnaval, see today’s Editors' Diary.
