Thirst for culture

Year after year, the Butte continued to grow. At its peak, the café-theatre welcomed more than 500 people who often took the opportunity to extend their stay and discover the beauty of the Laurentians. They could enjoy other activities offered by the Butte, as well as Val-David and the surrounding area.

Jean-Guy Moreau and François Cousineau performing

At two shows a night, more than 1,000 spectators could take their place in front of the stage. People came from all over. During the high season, hotels, inns and motels sold out so quickly that many homeowners turned their basements into dormitories. Restaurants were packed. Skiers, hikers and climbers ended their day at the Butte. And village youngsters found stimulating employment.

In the spring, the Canadiens ice hockey players were often among the crowd of spectators. During the playoffs, they stayed quietly at the Hôtel la Sapinière. “Don’t let them drink,” coach Scotty Bowman told Gilles Mathieu.

La Sapinière – winter 1936-1937