The Best Festivals in Montreal

Montreal is a lively and vibrant city that hosts some of the most amazing festivals in North America. From music festivals to cultural events, Montreal has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these festivals are guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable memories. Here are the top festivals that you must attend in Montreal.

Montreal International Jazz Festival 🎶

The Montreal International Jazz Festival is the largest jazz festival in the world and takes place annually in the heart of the city. With more than 500 concerts spread across 10 days, the festival is a celebration of the best jazz music from around the globe. From jazz legends to up-and-coming artists, the festival has something for everyone. Attendees can enjoy free outdoor concerts, ticketed indoor shows, and special events that showcase the best of Montreal’s vibrant cultural scene.

What is the history of the Montreal International Jazz Festival?

The Montreal International Jazz Festival was founded in 1980 by Alain Simard, André Ménard, and Denyse McCann. The festival has grown in popularity over the years and now attracts close to 2 million visitors annually.

When does the Montreal International Jazz Festival take place?

The Montreal International Jazz Festival takes place in late June and early July each year.

Osheaga Music and Arts Festival 🎵

Osheaga is one of Canada’s largest music festivals and is held annually at Parc Jean-Drapeau in Montreal. The festival attracts some of the biggest names in music from around the world and is a celebration of contemporary pop, rock, and indie music. With multiple stages, art installations, and food vendors, Osheaga is a true feast for the senses.

What is the history of the Osheaga Music and Arts Festival?

The Osheaga Music and Arts Festival was founded in 2006 by Nick Farkas and ÎleSoniq Productions. Since then, the festival has grown in size and popularity, becoming one of the most important music events in North America.

When does the Osheaga Music and Arts Festival take place?

The Osheaga Music and Arts Festival takes place in early August each year.

Montreal International Fireworks Competition 💣

The Montreal International Fireworks Competition is a must-see event for anyone visiting Montreal during the summer. The competition features pyrotechnic displays by some of the top fireworks companies from around the world, all set to music. The fireworks are launched from La Ronde, an amusement park located on Île Sainte-Hélène, allowing for amazing views of the city skyline.

What is the history of the Montreal International Fireworks Competition?

The Montreal International Fireworks Competition was first held in 1985 and has since become one of the largest fireworks competitions in the world.

When does the Montreal International Fireworks Competition take place?

The Montreal International Fireworks Competition takes place every Saturday and Wednesday evening from late June to early August.

Montreal Beer Festival 🍻

The Montreal Beer Festival is a celebration of the best craft beers from Quebec and around the world. The festival features more than 400 beers from over 80 breweries, as well as food trucks, live music, and seminars on beer brewing and tasting. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, the Montreal Beer Festival is an event not to be missed.

What is the history of the Montreal Beer Festival?

The Montreal Beer Festival was founded in 1994 and has since become one of the largest beer festivals in North America.

When does the Montreal Beer Festival take place?

The Montreal Beer Festival takes place in late May or early June each year.

Montreal Pride Parade 💆

The Montreal Pride Parade is an annual LGBT pride parade that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. The parade features colorful floats, live music, and thousands of participants from the LGBT community and its allies. The Montreal Pride Parade is a celebration of love, acceptance, and equality.

What is the history of the Montreal Pride Parade?

The Montreal Pride Parade was first held in 1979 and has since become one of the largest LGBT pride events in the world.

When does the Montreal Pride Parade take place?

The Montreal Pride Parade takes place in mid-August each year.

Montreal International Documentary Festival 📹

The Montreal International Documentary Festival is a showcase of the best documentary films from around the world. The festival features more than 100 documentaries, as well as discussions and conferences on documentary filmmaking. The Montreal International Documentary Festival is a great opportunity to learn about different cultures, societies, and issues that affect our world.

What is the history of the Montreal International Documentary Festival?

The Montreal International Documentary Festival was founded in 1998 by Festival Films et Documentaires and has since become one of the most important documentary film festivals in the world.

When does the Montreal International Documentary Festival take place?

The Montreal International Documentary Festival takes place in mid-November each year.

Montreal International Auto Show 🚗

The Montreal International Auto Show is a showcase of the latest and greatest cars from around the world. The show features hundreds of vehicles, as well as interactive exhibits and activities for car enthusiasts of all ages. The Montreal International Auto Show is a great opportunity to see the cars of your dreams up close and personal.

What is the history of the Montreal International Auto Show?

The Montreal International Auto Show was first held in 1969 and has since become one of the largest auto shows in Canada.

When does the Montreal International Auto Show take place?

The Montreal International Auto Show takes place in mid-to-late January each year.

Montreal International Children’s Film Festival 🙃

The Montreal International Children’s Film Festival is a celebration of films made for and by children. The festival features more than 150 films from around the world, as well as interactive activities and workshops for children and families. The Montreal International Children’s Film Festival is a great way to introduce your kids to the magic of cinema.

What is the history of the Montreal International Children’s Film Festival?

The Montreal International Children’s Film Festival was founded in 1995 and has since become one of the largest children’s film festivals in North America.

When does the Montreal International Children’s Film Festival take place?

The Montreal International Children’s Film Festival takes place in early March each year.

Montreal International Tango Festival 👯

The Montreal International Tango Festival is a celebration of Argentine tango, featuring workshops, shows, and milongas (tango dance parties) with renowned tango dancers and musicians from around the world. The festival is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the passion and sensuality of tango.

What is the history of the Montreal International Tango Festival?

The Montreal International Tango Festival was founded in 2003 and has since become one of the largest tango festivals in the world outside of Argentina.

When does the Montreal International Tango Festival take place?

The Montreal International Tango Festival takes place in mid-August each year.

Montreal En Lumière 💡

Montreal En Lumière is a winter festival that celebrates food, music, and culture. The festival features concerts, culinary events, and light installations that transform the city into a winter wonderland. Montreal En Lumière is a great way to experience the beauty of Montreal in the wintertime.

What is the history of Montreal En Lumière?

Montreal En Lumière was first held in 2000 and has since become one of the largest winter festivals in North America.

When does Montreal En Lumière take place?

Montreal En Lumière takes place in late February and early March each year.

Mural Festival 🎨

The Mural Festival is a street art festival that transforms the walls of Montreal into colorful canvases. The festival features over 100 artists from around the world who create stunning murals that reflect Montreal’s unique culture and history. The Mural Festival is a great way to explore Montreal’s vibrant street art scene.

What is the history of the Mural Festival?

The Mural Festival was first held in 2013 and has since become one of the largest street art festivals in North America.

When does the Mural Festival take place?

The Mural Festival takes place in mid-June each year.

Igloofest 🚮

Igloofest is an outdoor winter rave that takes place at the Old Port of Montreal. The festival features electronic music, light shows, and interactive installations that transform the port into a winter wonderland. Attendees can dance the night away in their warmest winter gear and enjoy the festive