Montreal in winter is pure magic, and 2024 promises an incredible lineup of events that will light up your season. From interactive art and festive markets to thrilling outdoor activities, Montreal has something for everyone to enjoy!

We have created the perfect guide for you! Plus budget-friendly tips for students! Are you ready? Let's go!

Luminothérapie : Free!

Kicking off Montreal’s winter magic, Luminothérapie transforms the Quartier des Spectacles into a glowing wonderland of interactive light installations. For all ages! Everyone should had fun and used their swings with neon lights, the photo experience with your friends or family is hilarious, there's music games and so much more! Go check it out!

What to Expect

• Interactive Light Installations: Explore whimsical setups designed to spark your imagination. From giant illuminated structures to playful projection art, these installations invite you to engage, move, and play.
• Photo Opportunities: Bring your camera (or phone) to capture stunning shots against Montreal’s twinkling nightscape.
• Live Performances: Keep an eye out for spontaneous performances, including music, dance, and theater, adding an extra layer of magic.

📍 Where: Quartier des Spectacles📅 When: Late November to early February💡 Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the installations

‍Grand Marché de Noël

This is the cutes Christmas Market ever! They have different pop-outs and stands with food, cozy house lights, Christmas decorations, mapple taffy, cider, hor chocolate, and so much more!

Reasons to Visit

• Student Discounts on Weekdays: Show your student ID to unlock exclusive weekday discounts!‍
• Free Hot Chocolate Times: Grab a free hot-chocolate to warm up (a little cozy treat)
• Local Artisan Deals: Check out awesome handcrafted goodies—from cool jewelry to tasty treats—and grab some great deals while supporting local creators!

📍 Where: Place des Arts
📅 When: December 1st to December 31st
💡 Pro Tip: Check the event's schedule online for free hot chocolate timings and performance details.

January Adventures

When the new year rolls around, Montreal keeps the winter vibes alive with thrilling festivals and outdoor activities.

Igloofest

Igloofest is the winter version of PiknicElectronik. It's an outdoor festival with snow! It sounds cold and terrifying but once you are inside teh crrowd dancing and jumping you barely feel the cold! International and local djs play here, is an absiolute must! Check teir website for the future shows!

• Student Pricing: Many nights feature discounted tickets for students!
• Best Weekend Packages: Secure weekend passes to enjoy multiple nights of music and fun for less.
• Group Discounts: Planning a night out with friends? Group ticket packages make it more affordable.

📍 Where: Old Port of Montreal
📅 When: Late January to early February
💡 Pro Tip: Wear proper skiing clothes! If you don't have is all good just make sure you are allcovered. Furry onesies work perfectly, otherwise, layer up some shirts with a jacket, snow/winter pants, waterproof boots, skiing googles, gloves and a cozy hat! If you go dressed up properly you'll have the best time of your life without feeling cold!

Fête des Neiges

This is perfect for families or just a friend activity group thing! It's extremly fun! You have different games whete to choose from, all super dynamic and very wintery of course!

• Free Activities: Enjoy tubing, ice carving demonstrations, and free outdoor games.
• Equipment Rentals: Don’t own skates or snowshoes? Rent equipment on-site at affordable rates.
• Transport Options: Public transit makes it easy to reach Parc Jean-Drapeau, with shuttle services often available during peak hours.

📍 Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau
📅 When: Mid-January to early February
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive early on weekends to avoid long lines for free activities and rentals.

From the glowing magic of Luminothérapie to the beats of Igloofest and cozy vibes at the Grand Marché de Noël, winter in Montreal is straight-up iconic!

Grab your warmest coat, your crew, and a sense of adventure, it’s time to make some memories.

Stay warm, stay hype, and we’ll see you out there! ❄️