FEAST OF SAINT-CATHERINE (Combo show 12:45 p.m. + tour)
Maison Saint-Gabriel is one of the rare places that carries on the tradition of making Saint Catherine’s Day taffy. The sisters of the Congrégation de Notre-Dame (CND) have been making this molasses taffy since the time of Marguerite Bourgeoys.
For Saint Catherine's Day, the visitors have the pleasure of watching as the sweet mixture is combined, beaten together and pulled in front them. Come and discover the techniques, tips and secrets of a successful recipe!Participants are then invited to sample the taffy which is sure to please both young and old!
Historian and storyteller, Francis Désilets, greets the visitors and explains to them the origin and traditions of the Feast of Saint Catherine. After the demonstration, he tells the story of the young woman who did not want to become an “old maid”. With guitar in hand, our multi-talented host punctuates the activity with songs from the traditional repertoire!