BY KIMBERLEY JOHNSON

A rowdy reveler at Jacques-Cartier Park during Winterlude. (Photo: Kimberley Johnson)

The last weekend of Winterlude is a few days away. And in case you haven’t already experienced it, we recommend heading over the border into Gatineau, QC for a wildly fun time at Jacques-Cartier Park.

Snowflake Kingdom in Jacques-Cartier is an absolute winter wonderland for kids — of all ages — and one of the best ways to spend an afternoon this family day weekend.

So, what can you expect? Well, once you cross the Alexandra Bridge and make your way into Jacques-Cartier Park you’ll find snow. Not just regular, ordinary, kick-it-around snow. But, rather, amazing, “you built that?!” snow constructions.

Snow slides. Snow mazes. Snow statues.

A snow statute towers over two Snowflake Kingdom goers at Jacques-Cartier Park. (Photo: Kimberley Johnson)

And snow’s rougher, tougher cousin Ice also makes an appearance in Jacques-Cartier Park. Perhaps the biggest draw is the big Iceberg slide. It’s so long that your whole family can head down together! And there are tube slides for a faster, slipperier ride downhill.

One area that you must check out this family day weekend: the Native exhibit. It features drumming music and a tent for kids to climb into and experience it up close.

Now that you’re all jazzed up and ready to take the family to Snowflake Kingdom this weekend, we have a few handy tips to help you along the way.

All that said, Winterlude certainly knows what a family needs! There are lots of food choices (we saw many eating a Canadian favourite: poutine!) and a warm rest area with picnic tables.

Cost: Free entry!

What next? Get one last view of the ice sculptures in Confederation Park. The Sno-Bus will take you there!