CCHS French Students brought The Concord Bridge to Le Chenil La Poursuite, which they visited to go dogsledding and enjoy a traditional Québecois dinner. Courtesy photo

As spring arrives, warm memories of chilly Quebec linger 

By Tianna Felix and Gretchen Hedlund — CCHS Class of 2025 

Daylight savings time, balmy afternoons, and buds on the trees all signal the advent of spring. Tempting though it may be to rush headlong into one of New England’s most exciting times, the start of a new season can also prompt reflection on the one that’s drawing to a close.  

Students posed for a photo in the Old Town of Québec City. Courtesy photo

For us, that means reminiscing about the winter journey to Quebec we took with the Concord-Carlisle High School French program.  

Let’s just admit it: early February might not seem like the best time to be outside, but we made the best of it in Montreal and Quebec City, turning the chilly temperatures into the backdrop for some of the most unforgettable adventures of our lives.  

From the moment we stepped off the bus, greeted by the cold but crisp winter air, to the final morning when we bid farewell to Quebec with a newfound appreciation for its history and culture, our trip was an exhilarating whirlwind of experiences that left us craving more. 

Picture this: sled dogs pulling us through the pristine snow-covered landscape, our laughter echoing across the frozen terrain as we embraced the thrill of dog sledding.

Dogsledding at Le Chenil La Poursuite. Courtesy photo

The warmth of hot chocolate in hand as we explored the charming streets of Quebec City’s lower town, marveling at stunning French architecture that seemed straight out of a fairytale. 

But the excitement didn’t stop there.  

Students sampled traditional poutine in Montréal. Courtesy photo

We delved into history at the McGill campus and the Sacred Heart Chapel, feeling a connection to the past as we learned about Quebec’s rich heritage.

And who could forget the adrenaline rush of tobogganing down snowy slopes under the starlit sky, our screams of delight mingling with the crisp night air? 

Of course, no trip to Quebec would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights.

From savoring the sweet taste of maple syrup at Érablière du Cap to sampling the Canadian specialty, beavertails, at Quebec’s famous Winter Carnival, our taste buds were treated to a symphony of flavors that left us wanting seconds. 

Thank you to Madame Pinto, Madame Watchi-Smith, and Mr. Patterson for organizing and chaperoning this trip.

Québec, tu nous manques déjà!