Must-do summer activities in downtown Montreal

Summer in Montreal is precious and fleeting. After months of hibernation, the city awakens with a contagious energy, and downtown comes alive with a host of events and activities. Whether you love music, art, or simply enjoying the outdoors, there’s something for everyone.

See the world through rose-tinted glasses with Philippe Katerine’s sculpture series, Le Mignonisme and let yourself be enchanted by the French melodies at Francos de Montréal. Feel the rhythm at SOULFEST and laugh out loud during a hilarious show at ComediHA! Festival. The possibilities are endless!

Get ready to fully embrace Montreal’s summer energy by participating in these 10 must-do activities downtown.

Dive into the Playful Pink World of Le Mignonisme

Until September 29, 2024, Le Mignonisme by Philippe Katerine transforms downtown Montreal and the Quartier des Spectacles into an open-air art gallery. Montrealers, festival-goers, and tourists alike will see the world in pink all summer thanks to this unique and fun artistic experience.

Free and open to all, this serie features 15 monumental pink sculptures, the Monsieur Rose (Mr. Pink), which are the emblems of Le Mignonisme. These candy-pink creations invade iconic locations like the Nouveau Centre, Place des Arts, and Square Phillips, and appear in the most surprising spots (fountains, building facades, rooftops, etc.).

See the complete itinerary here and get ready to be charmed by these playful and poetic creatures.

Celebrate Musical Diversity at Francos de Montréal

From June 14 to 22, Francos de Montréal will enliven downtown with a diverse program celebrating the richness of Francophone music. Nearly 150 performances, a third of which are free, will make the streets of the Quartier des Spectacles come alive.

Renowned artists like Les Trois Accords, Aswell, and La Bottine Souriante will be joined by emerging talents to keep festival-goers dancing day and night.

Whether you’re a fan of folk, hip-hop, rock, pop, electro, or slam, there will be performances to suit every taste. Expect nighttime surprises and must-see indoor shows that will mark this 35th edition. Join thousands of enthusiasts to kick off the summer with good music (en français, s’il vous plaît!).

Enjoy Free Concerts in the Jardins du centre-ville

The famous free concerts in the magnificent downtown gardens (Jardins du centre-ville) are back for the summer season from June 18 to September 12, with 4 concerts a week. During lunchtime, the concerts take place in Square Victoria. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a meal while discovering new talent.

Then it’s on for an afterwork at Square Phillips. Throughout the summer season, attend free concerts, perfect for relaxing after work and enjoying music in the open air. Don’t miss these unique musical moments in the heart of the city!

To discover the full program, click here!

Savor Jazz in All Its Forms at the Montreal International Jazz Festival

From June 27 to July 6, the 44th edition of the Montreal International Jazz Festival promises a full immersion into the world of jazz.

With over 350 concerts scheduled, two-thirds of which are free, the festival boasts an impressive diversity. Renowned artists like André 3000, Norah Jones, and Robert Glasper share the stage with emerging talents, showcasing the richness and global reach of jazz. Check out the full lineup here.

For 10 days, the Quartier des Spectacles transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity, where jazz legends and new voices celebrate this borderless music. Discover the brilliance of world jazz and let yourself be swept away by the magic of one of the city’s greatest musical celebrations.

Feel theThrill of the Dazzling Show GÉANTE!

From July 4 to 14, downtown Montreal comes alive with GÉANTE!, a breathtaking show organized by TOHU as part of the Montréal COMPLÈTEMENT CiRQUE festival. From July 4 to 14, the Esplanade PVM will transform into a magical circus stage where audiences of all ages can marvel at stunning acrobatics and boundless imagination.

Celebrating the festival’s 15th anniversary, this edition features a creation by Les 7 Doigts, telling the story of a little girl confronting a colossal steel giant. This free show promises awe and larger-than-life excitement, solidifying Montreal’s status as the international circus capital.

This year, a VIP terrace adds to the experience, offering a prime spot to enjoy a drink while watching the show from a perfect vantage point.

Experience Guinguette vibes at the Jardin du Monastère

Every Friday in July and August, right up until September 6th, the Jardin du Monastère turns into a lively Guinguette. Imagine the festive charm of open-air cafes, where music and dance fill the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy a bar, live music, and captivating circus performances. Best of all, entry is free and everyone is welcome!

1439 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest

Groove at SOULFEST Montréal

From July 11 to 14, 2024, Montreal will host the first edition of SOULFEST Montréal at Square St-James, right in the heart of downtown. For the occasion, Square St-James will be transformed into an open-air dance floor, with the illuminated church as a backdrop.

For 4 days of festivities, SOULFEST MONTRÉAL, presented by American Express and Le Balcon cabaret chic, will offer a dazzling lineup celebrating the greatest Soul, R&B, Funk, Gospel, and Disco hits of all time. Legends and icons of Soul music in Montreal will be part of the celebration to inaugurate the festival.

But it’s not just about the music. Expect a blend of fashion and a reinvented SoulFood culinary experience, offering a feast for all your senses. Don’t miss out on this chance to dance to the rhythm of Soul right in the heart of Montreal!

463 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest

Laugh Out Loud at the ComediHa! Festival

From July 18 to 28, 2024, get ready to laugh until you cry at the ComediHa! Festival, celebrating its 25th anniversary. This is your summer comedy rendezvous in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles.

Enjoy an amazing lineup with nearly 200 artists and creators bringing 30 shows to life. Every evening from 7pm, the Place des Festivals invites you to enjoy these open-air comedy performances for free.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, indoor shows at Place des Arts feature renowned comedians, accessible with a festival pass.

Join the Nouveau Centre’s Série HORS-FESTIVAL

This summer, the Nouveau Centre unveils an exciting summer program that will enliven the Esplanade PVM, the Montreal Eaton Centre, Place Montreal Trust, and the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth hotel.

Alongside the major festivals taking place across the metropolis this summer, Nouveau Centre presents the HORS-FESTIVAL Series: free concerts open to all on the Esplanade PVM, celebrating the programming of Montreal’s festivals.

Explore the Musical Diversity at La Virée Classique OSM

From August 14 to 18, 2024, La Virée Classique OSM will light up the city with concerts celebrating the musical treasures of the Mediterranean. Most of the events will take place in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles, where you can enjoy an extensive lineup featuring around sixty free activities.

Among these, you’ll find an opera screening, musical yoga, and innovative fusions of classical and electronic music in collaboration with the MUTEK festival.

Don’t miss the paid concerts at Place des Arts, showcasing renowned artists in captivating performances. This summer, let yourself be carried away by the magic of classical music in a festive and multicultural atmosphere.

See the full lineup here.