Forillon National Park of Canada

Interpretation activities – History component

A Peninsula Profoundly Marked by Human Presence

In the late 19 ^th and early 20 ^th centuries, Grande-Grave bustled with activity from May to October. Under the long-armed control of two powerful fishery companies, hundreds of families along the coast and many seasonal workers fished cod, then dried and salted it to produce the world-famous "Gaspé Cure", massively exported to Italy, Spain and the Caribbean.

With the interpretation activities, we will take you back in time to this vibrant period in the history of the Gaspé.

The regular program

The dates of the following activities for summer 2012 will be available soon.

Béquer bobo (In French only)

What did people do about aches and pains in the past? You children will find out about the mysteries of folk remedies. (Duration: 1 h)

Folklore et légendes (In French only)

Our grandparents really knew how to party! Join the talented guides for a family activity featuring spirited rhythms and spellbinding tales! Don't forget to bring your chairs. (1 hour 30 minutes)

Histoire d’hiver (In French only)

Come lend us a hand with the chores we’ve got to finish before winter arrives; in return, we promise you a whirlwind of fun and good times! (Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes)

La veillée! New! (In French only)

Do you hear the music? We’re putting together a soirée at the Petit–Gaspé amphitheatre. Musicians and storytellers are gearing up to “swing” your soul and tell you stories and tales inspired by local tradition. Good times in store for everyone... 

A fishin' we will go (Offered in English)

Xavier's son needs a hand, come help him get ready for his day on the water jigging for cod. (1 hour 15 minutes)

Les douze travaux d'antan (In French only)

Experience an hour in the life of a child living in the 1920s: role playing and amusing games for your kids. (1 hour 15 minutes)

Garde à vous! (In French only)

1942! Europe is at war! The Allies need supplies. Would you be able to defend the Gaspé harbour and protect the ships leaving for the “old continent”? (1 hour 15 minutes)

“Sign up” they said! (In English only)

Mr. Hyman’s beach master offers you a job as splitter, throater, header, salter, etc. Sign up with this company that prospered here in 1920. Interactive family activity. (Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes)