Everyone loves a parade!

This weekend is the end of Carnaval de Quebec. Last night was the parade through the upper city, ending with a party at the ice castle.

Keyla and I visited the inside of the ice palace before the parade  - home of the famous "Bonhomme."

As we waited, the colours of the palace changed... ooohh, aaaahhhh!

Inside were all the things you would expect to see in a palace:

Formal dining room, complete with chandelier.

We got invited to dinner!

Kitchen, complete with a cook.

Living room to relax - don't be getting too close to that fire, kids - you'll melt!

Family photos:

bedroom - I know a few women who would love to sleep in a room like this, and a few partners who complain that their room is cold enough, thank you very much!

After a warm cup of chicken broth provided by one of the kiosks, we waited for the parade...and waited...and waited. At one point we popped into a Starbucks to get warm and then we waited again. It was -10 and lightly snowing. Our feet froze after an hour, but, in the end, it was worth it.

I felt sorry for anyone who had to play and instrument in the cold.

Lots of interesting characters.

This was the Carnaval's 60th anniversary:

And the star of the show...."Bonhomme!"

After it was over - we forfeited the after party and headed home. A good day.