This text is part of the special Pleasures notebook
Eating is a primordial act if ever there was one. Why not take advantage of the leave to explore the world of food as a family and introduce children to Quebec culinary culture? Exhibitions, fishing, sugaring times: here are five activities where you are allowed to “play with your food” to better appreciate it afterwards.
1. The power of food at the Armand-Frappier Museum
At the Armand-Frappier Health Museum in Laval, Eat ! The exhibition that nourishes, produced with nutritionist and author Bernard Lavallée, explores the link between well-being and diet. Why do we need to feed ourselves? What happens in our body when we eat? The exhibition answers these questions, among other things, thanks to the playful illustrations of Simon L’Archevêque and stations where you can touch, smell and taste. We also address the wealth of traditional dishes from different communities and we give visitors the mission to restore balance on the planet through sustainable food. Nothing less. An activity that will appeal to children aged 7 and over as much as adults. Until September 2, 2024.
2. Become a grocer or farmer at the Children’s Museum
Also in Laval, but for younger children aged 2 to 8, the Children’s Museum presents 22 professions, several of which are related to food. In settings tailored to their size, children can become grocers, farmers or restaurateurs, among others. A great activity to make them see things from a new perspective and to address the importance of those who work to feed us.
3. Learn through sugar time
Several sugar shacks are open in time for spring break. This year, why not choose one that introduces children to the history of this typically Quebec tradition? For example, in Mirabel, La p’tite cabin d’la Côte allows you to discover the cuts with blowtorches and boilers while in Rigaud, La Sucrerie de la montagne offers a foray into the past thanks to various activities. In Mont-Saint-Grégoire, the Érablière in the undergrowth demonstrates how to make maple syrup, taffy and butter. In Papineauville, the Ti-Mousse cabin has a small museum inspired by the cuisine of yesteryear. Many maple groves offer interpretation activities: we will certainly find what our family will like in just a few clicks.
4. Experience ice fishing at Village Nordik
Ice fishing, or white fishing, is part of our history and Quebec traditions. The Village Nordik du Port de Québec offers the whole family the opportunity to experience this fishing established by the First Nations. On the Louise basin, young and old can tease the trout. As a bonus: a space to warm up and eat, and various activities. The activity is free for children under 5 years old. Until March 10.
5. Everyone eats at the Ecomuseum Zoo
In the west of the island of Montreal, the Ecomuseum Zoo has made it its mission since 1988 to raise awareness of Quebec’s wildlife and raise awareness among young people of the importance of a greener future. The link with food? During certain days announced on the site, special “lunch with the animals” activities are offered. Thus, children aged 5 and over prepare meals for lynxes, foxes or wolves before going to feed them. A way to learn more about Quebec wildlife, to realize that meals require preparation and that all living beings need to eat!
Magazines focused on food
This content was produced by the Special Publications team at Duty, relating to marketing. The writing of the Duty did not take part.