La Caravane du Marché
La Caravane du Marché is a community project aimed at distributing toys to schools or organizations from difficult socio-economic backgrounds in the Québec City region. The objective of the Caravan is to spread the magic of Christmas to children aged 5 to 10, while supporting the development of critical thinking through a reflection and creation activity.
During the visit from La Caravane du Marché, children are encouraged to discuss the meaning of Christmas, accompanied by hosts from the Joujouthèque Basse-Ville. They are asked to talk about what they want, individually and collectively, in this time of sharing. In addition, the children create a pretty decoration that will adorn the Tree of Wishes which stands in the Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville during the Québec City German Christmas Market.
During the animation, Santa's delivery elves - Santa Claus being too busy to move, but, don't panic, he has a team! - donate toys, courtesy of our partner Ravensburger, in collaboration with White Birch Papers.
The project's origin
The project comes from the desire of the Québec City German Christmas Market (MNAQ) to give back to the community and spread the magic of Christmas as the holiday season approaches. The MNAQ had already been involved for several years by welcoming, free of charge, in its Kinderchalet, school groups from less privileged backgrounds. In 2021, more than 150 children with school groups visited the Market to participate in themed arts and crafts activities, followed by a rally to discover Christmas traditions.
Last year, Ravensburger donated a large number of toys to the MNAQ. From there was born the pilot project of La Caravane du Marché. In addition to distributing toys, the objective is to offer a fun activity, where kids reflect and express themselves, while developing their critical thinking and their creative side. The valuable collaboration with la Joujouthèque Basse-Ville has made it possible to develop a workshop for reflection, discussion and creation around Christmas wishes. Thus, children can enjoy a moment of sharing and create a small ornament that will be exhibited on the site of the Québec City German Christmas Market.
In 2022, the project allowed the visit of 10 schools (72 classes!) and 4 organizations. La Caravane du Marché reached 1589 kids from less privileged backgrounds.
In 2023, thanks to the support of the partners, la Caravane will continue to spread joy in the hearts of children!
Partners of La Caravane du Marché
