How French Immersion Schools Celebrating Winter with French Canadian Flair

Every winter, Abbotsford School District French Immersion schools come together to celebrate a beloved tradition that brings warmth, excitement, and cultural appreciation to the chilly months. Inspired by Quebec City’s famous Carnaval de Québec, we have made it a tradition to embrace French Canadian heritage through food, music, and outdoor festivities—giving students a chance to create lasting memories year after year.

This celebration has become a highly anticipated event in the school communities. Each year, students eagerly bundle up and head outside to enjoy activities reminiscent of the winter carnival. This year, the District had several highlights including ice sculpture contests, Métis jigger dances, Marshmallow Roasting & S’more Making, and poutine.

Students from l'École Clearbrook Elementary gathered in the cold to sample one of Quebec’s most famous dishes last Friday: poutine! Thanks to Helms Mobile Kitchen, who provided this delicious treat, many children had the chance to experience something new and exciting. For some, it was their first taste of poutine, and it was heartwarming to see their adventurous spirits as they dug in.

Sandy Hill Elementary hosted their own festive gatherings where classes learned about Quebecois culture, including Métis jigging lessons with Fergus Dalton. Students got to have pancakes and maple syrup and had a special visit from Bonhomme, the official mascot of the Carnaval de Québec and a beloved symbol of Quebec's winter festivities! Their ice sculpture contest showed off the creativity of the students to top off the week. Similarly, Margaret Stenersen Elementary also held festivities to celebrate the season. 

Students from Chief Dan George Middle School and other schools that offer core French are celebrating the festival in their own unique ways. For example, French students from Clayburn Middle School are staying with billet families to experience winter sports and Carnaval this month. Additionally, Centennial School is scheduled to host its la semaine nationale de la francophonie in March. Regardless of the activity, the heart of this annual tradition remains the same: bringing our school community together in the spirit of culture, community, and winter fun.

Chief Dan George Middle School is set to host its Franco Fête on April 15 and 16, featuring 18 different activities for students to enjoy. All grade 5 students from the four French Immersion elementary schools will participate in student-led French cultural activities.

By keeping this tradition alive year after year, the Abbotsford School District is not only celebrating French Canadian heritage but also fostering a sense of togetherness that makes winter something to look forward to. As teachers and administrators continue to pass down important French-Canadian traditions, they ensure that each new group of students gets to experience the magic of winter in a way that is both educational and unforgettable. Here’s to another year of laughter, warmth, and cultural celebration!