Since the summer of 2000, it has been impossible to walk through Tremblant’s pedestrian village without noticing a gathering of families, bursts of laughter and a colourful collection of balloons. At the centre of it all is Marc-Ambulles, a larger-than-life character who transforms simple balloons into true works of art.
Who is Marc-Ambulles?
Marc-Ambulles is much more than a balloon sculptor. He offers a full performance where humour, improvisation, funny faces and impressions come together with creativity to create unforgettable moments. For more than 25 years, he has become a familiar face at Tremblant for generations of visitors.
Behind the character is Marc-André Gendron, originally from Hull, in the Outaouais region. A trained artist, he studied visual arts before completing a major in sculpture at Concordia University.
It was during his studies at Concordia that he discovered balloon sculpture through a friend. Fascinated by the endless possibilities of this unique art form, he began developing his skills by reading specialized books and watching VHS tapes on the subject. Little by little, this curiosity became a true passion, and Marc-Ambulles was born.
For more than 35 years, Marc-André Gendron has worked in the world of entertainment and creative arts. Throughout his career, he has been an acclaimed stilt walker, magician, improv performer and instructor, leading art and balloon sculpture workshops. He is also the author of Sculpter des ballons, published by Éditions Logiques as part of the Arts du cirque collection.
25 years of magic at Tremblant
Since arriving at Tremblant in 2000, Marc-Ambulles has brought his unique energy to the mountain throughout all four seasons. Whether under the summer sun, surrounded by fall colours or in the magical atmosphere of winter, he welcomes visitors with the same contagious enthusiasm.
His secret? A mix of creativity, generosity and a healthy dose of imagination. Every sculpture is unique, but so is every interaction. While creating an animal, a character or a completely unexpected masterpiece, Marc-Ambulles connects with visitors and turns waiting time into a fun and memorable experience.
Watching Marc-Ambulles create a balloon sculpture is a show in itself, where smiles appear long before the final balloon is tied. Children and adults alike leave with an original creation, but most importantly, with a memory that will last for years to come.
A character who brings generations together
After all these years, Marc-Ambulles continues to create special connections with the families who visit Tremblant.
Many children who once waited in line to see him 20 years ago now return with their own children to share this tradition. They leave with their own balloon creation and the joy of passing on a piece of their childhood memories at the mountain.
Other guests return to see him year after year, making Marc-Ambulles a must-stop during their visit to Tremblant. Some are even pleasantly surprised to find him still there after all these years and take the time to say hello and thank him for the memories he helped create throughout their childhood.
For Marc-Ambulles, these encounters are the greatest reward. More than the sculptures themselves, it is the smiles, conversations and shared memories that remind him he is exactly where he belongs.
Marc-Ambulles at a glance
According to his creator, Marc-André Gendron, Marc-Ambulles represents:
- More than 35 years in the business, including more than 25 years at Tremblant;
- A joy spreader and happiness collector;
- The perfect blend of sculpture and entertainment;
- A character that allows him to fully embrace his creativity and imagination.
One balloon at a time, Marc-Ambulles continues to add a touch of magic to Tremblant and create unforgettable moments for generations of visitors who come to the mountain.
Thank you for everything, Marc-Ambulles! We love you!
