The French have brought us many great things: Quality Strip-clubs, Poutine, Pierre Trudeau, and this month's Canadiana: Bonhomme & The Quebec Winter Carnival.

Bonhomme ("Happy Man" in English), or 'Bonhomme Carnaval' as he's officially known, has been the ambassador, and key figure in The Quebec Winter Carnival since 1955. Bonhomme is the celebrity personality of the carnival and embodies the spirit and French traditions of the annual celebration. He is the living embodiment of the snowmen that have enchanted Canadian children for centuries. Bonhomme plays a central role in all of the festivities of this joyous period of the year. Bonhomme personifies the joie de vivre associated with this winter celebration.

Bonhomme proudly wears the traditional red hat and red fringed belt of early French Canadian history. The fringed belt, inspired by the Amerindian culture, has remained as a cultural symbol, largely due to Bonhomme's continued use of it. In the early 19th century, the fringed belt was used to tie jackets at the waist, to protect from the cold creeping in. It was both practical and fashionable, and was worn by all classes. The belt and the red hat (both important pieces of Quebec folklore) are the primary elements of Bonhomme's outfit.

The Quebec Winter Carnival is the largest winter carnival on the planet and the third largest carnival in general (Only the Rio de Janeiro Carnival and New Orleans Carnival attract more visitors annually). Unlike the Rio and New Orleans carnivals, you won't find many scantily clad participants in the parade, considering the usual temperature is below freezing. Nonetheless, every year, for the first two weeks in February, Quebec is transformed by the magic of the carnival. The Carnival draws more than 1,000,000 visitors every year, which equates to $25 to $30 million per year in economic spin-offs.

Since the beginning of the French colony in what is now Quebec, there has been a rowdy tradition of getting together in early February to celebrate the carnival. Large carnivals took place in Quebec as early as 1894. It was often difficult to survive the tough winter months, and the city's population was often tested by the harsh elements. The annual winter celebration was one way in which the community could come together, and keep spirits high. It wasn't until 1954 that the current festival was born. The first official edition of the Quebec Winter Carnival took place a year later in 1955, which was also the first introduction of Bonhomme.

The Quebec Winter Carnival offers up an amazing array of world-class artistic, cultural and sporting activities that provide grown-ups and children alike an opportunity to rediscover the wonders of winter. The main Carnival attractions are located in the heart of Old Quebec. Examples of some of the events include: ice fishing, maple taffy on snow, snow rafting, a Giant Fooz Ball game, snow sculptures, the snow bath, the ice palace, the dog sled race, the festival parade, the canoe race, and much much more. A favourite of the festival for many visitors: 'Caribou'. Caribou is a potent alcoholic beverage, comprised of brandy, vodka, sherry, AND port. A drink like this could only have been conceived by the French! At The Quebec Winter Carnival, you'll see and experience winter in all its many forms, and you'll also discover the way of life of Quebecers. Check it out, but go easy on the Caribou.