Christmas in Montreal
I’ve spent at least part of the last two Christmases in Montreal, Quebec. In 2018, I flew into Montreal on my way to Quebec City. i enjoyed my short time there so much that I decided to spend my entire holiday in Montreal this year!
Montreal is my absolute favorite city, and when it’s decorated for the holidays, it becomes even more magical. Holiday decorations adorn the shops, Christmas lights warm up cold winter nights, and Old Montreal is home to a number of holiday festivities. If you’re thinking about experiencing a Montreal Christmas, here are a few ideas:
Montreal is home to many beautiful churches. Attending a mass on Christmas is a wonderful experience, no matter what your beliefs. You could attend mass at St. Joseph’s Oratory, the largest church in Montreal. If you plan to attend mass at Notre Dame Basilica, you’ll need to know that there is a cost, and tickets should be purchased in advance.
If you still want to see the Basilica, but don’t want to attend mass, I highly recommend getting tickets to Aura, the multimedia show highlighting Notre Dame’s art and architecture..
The Old Port of Montreal has fireworks on select Saturday nights in December. You can also rent ice skates and skate on the ice rink beneath the show!
The Christmas Village at Atwater Market is another must visit spot. After roaming the market for fresh bread and produce. you’ll find approximately 40 stalls at the market selling food, beverages, and gifts. There’s also a spot for Children's activities, and of course, Santa Claus.
In Jacques Cartier Square you’ll find Merry Montreal, a festive holiday experience with refreshments, fire pits, children’s activities and assorted entertainment.
Luminotherapie is a fun, interactive art installation that lights up the Quartier des Spectacles. This year’s installation consisted of five fantastical creatures that lit up and danced as the crowds gathered around them.
Finally, no trip to Montreal is complete without tasting the delicious food at one of the city’s many restaurants. Just be sure to double check with the restaurant on hours, as many are closed on Christmas Day.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful, & enjoy the photos and videos below! If you’ve been to Montreal at Christmastime, be sure to share any additional ideas you have in the comments!
Joyeux Noël!
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