Winter sports. Snow sculptures. Dogsled races. If you dream of traveling to a fantastic winter wonderland, look no further than the annual Quebec City Winter Carnival. From February 1-17, Quebec City will turn into a real-life winter fairy tale. The world-famous event is the largest winter carnival celebration in North America, and is ranked as one of the top carnival celebrations in the world along with Carnivale in Rio de Janeiro and Mardi Gras in New Orleans. In addition to the Winter Carnival, travelers to Quebec City this year are in for an extra treat, as the city’s 400th anniversary celebration kicks off with special theater, music, and dining events. For more information, please visit www.quebec400.qc.ca.
For Americans making the trip up north to revel in all things winter, the excursion also provides the opportunity to see other nearby Canadian cities. Two cities in particular – Montreal and Ottawa – are just a stone’s (or rather, a snowball’s) throw away from Quebec City and easily accessible by VIA Rail Canada, the national rail network with convenient downtown-to-downtown service. And if you time it right, you might just find yourself at another splendid winter celebration.
Two possible “tack-on” opportunities are:
MONTREAL
Approximately three hours on VIA Rail Canada’s Corridor line from Quebec City, Montreal is one of North America’s most vibrant cities – and VIA Rail is the most convenient way to get there. Passengers in VIA 1 Class aboard the Corridor enjoy inclusive meals, pay-for-use Wi-Fi Internet and exclusive access to the Panorama Lounge at major stations. You may wish to time your trip to celebrate the season with a second winter festival – Montreal hosts La Fête des Nieges de Montréal each weekend from January- February 10, 2008. In its 26th year, the “Festival of the Snow” features shows and special events, including an outdoor discotheque and performances, and an incredible northern village. After you’ve had your fill of al fresco activities, stop by one of Montreal’s renowned restaurants and enjoy such local delicacies as smoked meat and farm-fresh cheese. For more information, please visit www.fetedesneiges.com.
As of January 24, prices for one-way tickets from Quebec City/Montreal are as follows:
Quebec City to Montreal – VIA 1 Discounted VIA 1 – CAD $111.75
Quebec City to Montreal – Comfort Class Supersaver – CAD $47.41
OTTAWA
Not partied out yet? Double your festival fun with Ottawa’s Winterlude Festival! Extend your vacation from Quebec City by visiting Canada’s majestic capital city – Ottawa – for the city’s annual Winterlude Festival weekends. From February 1-17, 2008, visitors have the chance to skate on the Rideau Canal, the world’s longest skating rink, marvel over unbelievable ice sculptures at the 21st International Ice-Carving Competition, or enjoy winter-themed performances – all in the heart of Canada’s Capital. For more information on the Winterlude Festival, please visit www.winterlude.ca.
Ottawa is approximately seven hours from Quebec City on VIA Rail Canada. Passengers in VIA 1 Class aboard the Corridor enjoy inclusive meals, pay-for-use Wi-Fi Internet and exclusive access to the Panorama Lounge at major stations.
As of January 24, prices for one-way tickets from Quebec City/Ottawa are as follows:
Quebec City to Ottawa – VIA 1 Discounted VIA 1 – CAD $193.02
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