Places, Traditions and Discoveries · Drawing 31 of 40
Step-dancing feet
Québec — traditional dance
In gigue, a kind of step dance, the feet tap out the rhythm. Dancers make their steps loud and clear, often to traditional music.
Look together
Can you invent a little step?
An idea to try
In a clear space, your child gently takes two steps on the spot, then stops. Repeat the little pattern together at a comfortable speed.
For the adult reading along
A little more to discover
Gigue is a dance in which foot strikes create rhythm. Québec’s cultural heritage council describes steps alternating heels, soles and toes. Gigue is often danced solo, but also in pairs or in groups. The skill is passed on through practices including observation and imitation, and was designated an element of Québec’s intangible heritage in 2023.
Distinguish moving to music from producing a rhythm with feet. Your child can explore simple gestures without learning choreography. Suggest a small response to a hand-clapped pattern, then let them choose an easy movement to repeat comfortably.
Sources and illustration notes (1)
Imagined dancers and steps; the image does not teach a particular figure or step-dancing technique.
These links lead to other websites. Explore them with an adult. References identify the institution and the related lesson; some linked pages are in French.
- Conseil du patrimoine culturel du Québec — Gigue (in French)Strikes with the heels, soles and toes; danced alone or in groups; transmission and 2023 designation.
Page prepared on September 12, 2026. Illustrations simplify places and scenes; they are not historical documents.
This drawing is from the book Québec Treasures to Colour
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