After 30 years, Canadiana Village has reopened its doors to the public. The renowned 19th-century village, showcasing original structures and antiques from the era, was a significant attraction in Quebec during the 1980s, serving as an open-air museum until 1996.
Since acquiring ownership six years ago, Thibault Chamot and Charlotte Winterhalter have been gradually restoring and enhancing the village, situated in Rawdon, Quebec, within the Lanaudière region. Previously utilized primarily as a filming location for movies and TV shows, the couple’s vision is to transform the village back into a popular tourist destination.
Through funding from Tourisme Québec, the renovation project has been accelerated, allowing the couple to rejuvenate the pioneer village while incorporating modern features like sophisticated lighting and a comprehensive sound system installed throughout the park. The $2.3-million grant, awarded through the provincial tourism recovery program PARIT, was announced by Quebec Treasury Board President France-Élaine Duranceau in June after recognizing the attraction’s international appeal and tourism potential.
Chamot expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing how it expedited the project’s progress, enhancing the overall visitor experience with sound and lighting enhancements. Their goal is to offer visitors an immersive museum experience, not just observation but active participation in the historical setting.
This year’s summer schedule includes a distinctive performance by local troupe Cirque Alfonse, showcasing traditional Lanaudière culture through log rolling, axe juggling, acrobatics, and humor. The site has gradually reopened to the public over the past two years, expanding from weekend shows to 17 circus performances this summer, along with a return of the Christmas market and plans for year-round events.
Looking ahead, Chamot and Winterhalter aim to preserve not only the historical essence of the village but also its legacy as a film set. By introducing innovative lighting and sound elements, they hope to create an interactive environment that sparks visitors’ imagination, transforming the space from a backdrop for film productions into a dynamic and engaging attraction for all.