Last weekend, I boarded a VIA Rail train and traveled north to spend the weekend in Montreal. Located in the Quebec province, Montreal is a quaint city with enormous personality. Upon arrival, I immediately noticed not only the plunge in temperature, but also the presence of French language. While Canada is formally a bilingual country, English is the primary language printed on food items and merchandise in most areas. French labeling is typically stamped beneath in smaller font. Cities and townships in province Quebec, such as Montreal, have an inverse arrangement: French is the predominant and preferred language for most employees and especially so for commodities or brand messaging.
Similar to the U.S., present-day Canada was formerly a settler colony. However, unlike the U.S., Canada was both a British and French colony. French settlers occupied much of the territory that is today considered Quebec, ceding land to British powers in 1763 following the Seven Years’ War. From my experience, many of Montreal’s residents identify as Québécois(e) first and then as Canadian.
The reason for my trip was to attend Igloofest, the coldest music festival in the world. Taking place at the Old Port of Montreal, each year thousands of concertgoers put on their warmest gear to brave the frigid weather and enjoy electronic dance music. It was a balmy 10 degrees Fahrenheit (ha!) when we went.
