Winter is setting in on the Plains of Abraham
News Release
December 7, 2016 – Québec – The National Battlefields Commission
Once again, the National Battlefields Commission (NBC) will offer visitors wonderful winter moments to spend with family and friends at the very heart of the city. History lovers and snowshoe enthusiasts will be well served with the Snowshoer’s lively guided tour. The fourth edition of the Joan of Arc Garden presents scenes reminiscent of the Plain’s winter history. For the pleasure of all, the Plains of Abraham ice rink located at the playing fields will open this Saturday, December 10. Come and experience the joys of winter!
Quick facts
- The Snowshoer*
Participate in a guided tour steeped in the past. History lovers and winter recreationalists, put on your caps, mittens, arrow-head sashes and traditional laced snowshoes and accompany a 20th century snowshoer on a tour on the Plains. An original recreational outing reminiscent of the “belle époque” of winter sports and leisure activities of yesteryear.
Equipment and hot chocolate included. From December 30 to February 26, Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. $17 / ages 10 to 64; $15 / ages 65 and older.
- The Snowshoer went a courtin’*
On Valentine’s Day, treat yourself to a guided tour including stories about the courtship rituals of the golden age of snowshoeing and the fascinating — and sometimes racy— stories of our ancestors.
Equipment, lantern and hot chocolate included. February 14, 7 p.m. $17 / ages 13 to 64; $15 / ages 65 and older. In French only.
- The Snowshoer family outing*
A family version of the Snowshoer is offered during the school break. Relive the winters of old through an exciting trek in snowshoes where young and old will be drawn into the wonderful world of our guide and storyteller.
Equipment and hot chocolate included. From March 6 to 10, 2 p.m. $11 / ages 6 to 12; $13 / ages 13 and older. In French only.
- Walk the Joan of Arc Garden in the snow
In a magical atmosphere, discover the winter heritage of the Plains of Abraham in a unique decor of sparkling decorations and winter scenes from centuries past. A must-see — and see-again!
From mid-November to mid-April. Free.
- Skating on the Plains of Abraham ice rink
The ice rink is a joint effort partnered by Ville de Québec and the NBC to allow you to experience the great outdoors in downtown Québec City. It is located at the playing fields west of the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec. The refrigerated skating rink allows visitors to fully appreciate the wonders of winter. On site, equipment rental ($) and food services ($) are offered at the skaters’ chalet where you can drop by to warm up. Information: 418-208-7722.
From December 10 to mid-March (weather conditions permitting). Free.
- Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Ski in one of the most accessible and enchanting locations offering a breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence River. At the Plains of Abraham, there are 11.3 km of groomed trails for beginner and intermediate cross-country skiers; a 3.8 km (round trip) trail for snowshoeing along Cap Diamant from the Cap Blanc staircase to Gilmore Hill; and 6.6 km of walking trails. A waxing room and three heated rest areas are also open to visitors at the Plains of Abraham Museum, the Pavilion (near the Edwin-Bélanger Bandstand) and the skaters’ chalet (ice rink). Ski conditions (automated info-line): 418-648-4212.
At the skaters’ chalet, the Friends of the Plains of Abraham offer equipment rental services ($) daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Information: 418 208-7722. Classic cross-country skiing lessons ($) are also available: 418-649-6476 or 581-741-3991.
Opening soon until the end of March (depending on the snowfall). Free.
- Information and reservations
Plains of Abraham Museum
835, Wilfrid-Laurier Avenue, level 0,
Québec (Québec) G1R 2L3
418-649-6157 | 1-855-649-6157
Gift certificates available for guided Snowshoer tours.
*Reservations required online or by telephone.
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Contact
Nathalie Allaire
Outreach and Media Officer
Communications Division
The National Battlefields Commission
418-648-4801, nathalie.allaire@ccbn-nbc.gc.ca
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