Holidays 2025: cultural activities for the whole family
As winter descends upon the city, Montréal comes all aglow with festive fun and an array of magical cultural activities for the whole family. With the holiday season fast approaching, here are some suggestions for inspiring experiences that will dazzle everyone in your crew, from teens to wee ones.
DOWNTOWN
Santa Claus Parade, November 22, 2025
Come see Santa Claus, the Star Fairy, the elves and many other luminous characters as they parade down René-Lévesque Boulevard, between streets Bishop and Saint-Urbain.
Santa’s Kingdom, Complexe Desjardins, November 22 to December 24, 2025
Santa welcomes children and adults alike into his magical world filled with entertainment, enchanting shows, and choirs. Don’t miss the multimedia show Fontaine Boréale, presented every hour starting at 4 p.m. daily. The beloved carousel and mini train also make their return, much to the delight of little ones.
Lumino, Quartier des spectacles, November 27, 2025 to March 8, 2026
This winter, step into the magical world of the latest edition of Lumino. At the heart of this open-air polar adventure, explore around twenty interactive, contemplative, and light-filled works, including video projections, installations, and live artistic performances. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to pick up local gifts at the Great Christmas Market on Place des Festivals, running from November 21, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
Candlelight Christmas, Loyola Chapel, Concordia University, December 4 to 7, 2025
Come enjoy an evening by candlelight as the Lyric Theatre Singers perform a special selection of Christmas music from around the world, blending jazz, gospel, global rhythms, and musical theatre.
Holiday celebrations at the McCord Stewart Museum, November 29, 2025 to January 4, 2026
A holiday favourite, the museum invites you to rediscover the magic of the Enchanted Village through Ogilvy’s mechanical Christmas windows, displayed indoors, and The Mill in the Forest, featured outdoors on pedestrian-only Victoria Street, beautifully decorated for the season. The program also includes creative workshops, free interactive tours, story readings, and surprises. On Saturday, November 29, wear your favourite pyjamas and head to the museum at 10 a.m. for a series of free activities that will officially kick off the festivities.
Fun With Decorative Art Printmaking, Montréal Museum of Fine Arts, December 20, 2025 to February 22, 2026
On Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., families can take part in a hands-on activity using a simple printing technique to create patterns inspired by the museum’s decorative arts collection. Whether subtle or bold, geometric, floral, or graphic, these designs will come to life under your hands. Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and younger children require continuous supervision. A special schedule is in effect from December 24, 2025 to January 3, 2026—please check when booking.
Les Choristes en concert, Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, December 6 and 7, 2025
Experience a magical family moment watching this cult classic on the big screen while the FILMharmonique Orchestra and the Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal perform the soundtrack live.
The Nutcracker, Salle Pierre-Mercure at Centre Pierre-Péladeau, December 7, 2025
Ballet Ouest de Montréal's Nutcracker continues to captivate audiences with a magical show featuring over 90 children and 30 professional artists.
Actapalabra, Maison Théâtre, from December 10, 2025 to January 4, 2026
This production from Théâtre Am Stram Gram (Switzerland) introduces young audiences to the world of absurd theatre in Actapalabra. Two clowns from another era, bundled up in their green puffer jackets, navigate routines and chaos with humour and precision, juggling imaginary objects and outrageous situations, inviting children to laugh, dream, and let go. For ages 4 to 17.
Décembre signé Québec Issime, Salle Pierre-Mercure at Centre Pierre-Péladeau, December 11 to 30, 2025
Celebrated for over 20 years, this grand holiday musical is back with an all-new set. Experience the magic as a family with 60 songs performed by 24 artists and wildly inventive choreography that will keep everyone on their toes.
Peter Pan, the musical, Théâtre St-Denis, Montréal, December 12, 2025 to January 4, 2026
With direction by Luc Guérin and vibrant choreography from the duo Team White, around 20 performers, accompanied by a seven-piece orchestra, take audiences on a magical journey to Neverland. Thrilling adventures, heartfelt moments, and whimsical touches weave throughout the story. From encounters with the formidable Captain Hook to soaring above the stars and tender reunions, this Tony Award–winning Broadway classic invites kids and adults alike to rediscover the magic of their inner child.
The Nutcracker, Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, December 12 to 30, 2025
Every year since 1964, Les Grands Ballets has brightened our holiday season with this magical family tradition for the young and the young at heart. Created by choreographer Fernand Nault, the Nutcracker is beautifully danced to Tchaikovsky’s score, which is performed by the Grands Ballets orchestra. An enchanting can’t-miss experience!
A Charlie Brown Christmas, Bourgie Hall at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, December 17 and 18, 2025
A jazz concert that presents songs from the popular A Charlie Brown Christmas album, performed by the Taurey Butler Trio.
A Charlie Brown Christmas, Cinquième Salle, December 21, 2025
Performed by the Chambristes du Grand Montréal with a jazz trio, this concert features the beloved pieces from Vince Guaraldi’s iconic A Charlie Brown Christmas album. Enhanced by a children’s choir and a soloist, it promises a moving and memorable experience.
Nicolas Noël – Le cristal du temps, Théâtre Jean-Duceppe, December 27 and 28, 2025
Joined on stage by the elves Trémaline and Pamalin, Father Nicolas Noël invites you to a brand-new musical holiday show, sharing his wonderful stories through song in a heartwarming seasonal performance. Torn between cherished traditions and the pull of new technologies, the Grand Magician must call on all his wisdom to safeguard – hopefully - the Great Magical Night… A festive, intergenerational adventure where families and children rediscover the timeless magic of Christmas.
OLD MONTRÉAL AND THE OLD PORT
A Victorian Christmas, Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier Historic Site, November 24 to December 19, 2025
Step inside Sir George-Étienne Cartier’s Victorian home, beautifully decorated for Christmas. The table is set for the grand feast, and a German-style Christmas tree lights up the living room. Follow the scents of pine and spices as you explore the traditions, origins and preparations of a 19th-century bourgeois Christmas.
Les Choralies, Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, December 6 to 21, 2025
Montréal choirs perform Christmas songs from past and present, free of charge, every Saturday and Sunday in December. Performances last 45 minutes and take place at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
MOUNT ROYAL, OUTREMONT AND WESTMOUNT
Christmas Concert at the Oratory, Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal, December 12, 2025
Each year, this festive holiday concert brings the story of the Nativity alive through traditional songs, old French hymns and Christmas songs from around the world.
Traditional Christmas Concert of the Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal, December 14, 2025
Get into the holiday spirit as the Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal present this free concert (voluntary donations welcome) for pilgrims and visitors at the Oratory. With a repertoire of traditional songs from here and around the world, conductor and musical director Andrew Gray invites you to sing along with the choir.
Coucou Passe-Partout, , Théâtre Outremont, December 21, 2025
In this enchanting show filled with surprises, circus whimsy, and magical moments, two quirky, fluffy, ageless characters take their time to savour every moment. Suitable for ages 6 and up.
Coucou Passe-Partout, Théâtre Outremont, 21 décembre 2025
Passe-Partout, Passe-Carreau, and Passe-Montagne travel across Québec to reunite with their little friends. For 50 minutes, kids and parents join in games, sing beloved songs, and explore stories about friendship, solidarity, respect and creativity in a show that’s both playful and heartwarming.
Le Petit Prince, Théâtre Outremont, December 26 to 28, 2025
The acclaimed Paris show is finally coming to Montréal for the holidays! The Little Prince comes to life in a magical, visually stunning world that blends reality and virtual effects. Through his poetic journey, he explores friendship, love, and cherished connections, offering families a magical, moving and timeless experience.
LITTLE ITALY, ROSEMONT AND VILLERAY
Pain d’épice, L’Illusion Théâtre de marionnettes, November 25 to December 14, 2024
At the heart of a space dedicated to creating and showcasing the art of puppetry, discover a show that is inspired by the timeless tale of The Gingerbread Man. A story full of sugar and spice about a cookie that comes to life for kids ages 3 to 6. In French.
Action!, TOHU, from December 11 to 30, 2025
Step into the electrifying atmosphere of a 1960s TV set with this Théâtre à Tempo production. Amid cameras, spotlights, and sets, meet a cast of talented actors, a flamboyant director, and inventive technicians. From superheroes to Tarzan to cooking segments, this funny, acrobatic, and moving show blends the absurd with the sublime. Recommended for ages 4 and up.
PLATEAU-MONT-ROYAL AND MILE END
Mon Beau Sapin, Place des Fleurs-de-Macadam, December 6, 2025
The holiday spirit takes over Avenue du Mont-Royal with a new edition of Mon Beau Sapin. From 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., visitors can enjoy fantastical characters, choirs, traditional music, and the installation of a twelve-foot wooden tree. In exchange for a donation of food or money, each person will receive one of 250 ornaments illustrated by artist Simon L’Archevêque. As the ornaments are removed, light will shine from inside the tree. All donations will go directly to local community organizations working in food security. A magical moment awaits!
Winter day camp, Livart, December 22, 2025 to January 2, 2026
Livart offers a winter day camp themed around satire in art. Available à la carte or in 5 or 6-day packages, the camp invites children to explore a topic that’s both fun and thought-provoking, inspired by artists such as Fernando Botero and Kent Monkman. Each day includes a unique creative workshop, games, and cultural mediation activities tailored to the featured artist.
IN MONTRÉAL
Christmas in the park, December 5 to 24, 2025
This festival is celebrating its 31st year across various neighbourhoods in the city! At Compagnons-de-Saint-Laurent park, at Lahaie park, and at the Parterre in the Quartier des Spectacles, enjoy a free lineup of events: outdoor concerts, dance, bonfires, poetry and family-friendly activities.
Candlelight Concerts, various venues, December 19 to 21, 2025
Experience dazzling music in candlelit venues. Montréal’s Holiday Classics series features three unmissable concerts: Holiday Classics at Saint Jean-Baptiste Church on December 19, 2025; A Christmas with Charlie Brown at 9e on December 20, 2025; and Holiday Special: The Nutcracker & Others at Théâtre Rialto on December 21, 2025.
Festilumi, until January 4, 2026
This 1.5 km illuminated trail at Marché Central takes you through 13 magical themed worlds. Stunning creatures, dazzling visual effects, and seasonal atmospheres combine to create an immersive experience perfect for the whole family.
NEARBY- SAINT CONSTANT
Railway Christmas, Exporail / The Canadian Railway Museum, November 29 to December 30, 2025
This family event on the South Shore invites you inside the Grand Gallery, which will be adorned in twinkling lights. The program features special activities, a visit from Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and the elves the chance to admire a train decked out in holiday finery.
Here are more ideas from our 2025 holiday guides:
Montréal’s best holiday markets for 2025
Where to find original Montréal advent calendars
Winter holiday activities for all in Montréal
Holiday season cultural activities in Montréal
Where to eat in Montréal during the holidays
Where to find Montréal’s best yule logs
Your guide to New Year's Eve in Montréal
Jingle Bells! Celebrating the holidays in Montréal
Original article in French by Laure Juilliard, adapted into English by Dawn Bessey-Gans.
Laure Juilliard
Originally from Paris, Laure Juilliard made Montréal her home over 15 years ago and has never looked back. Won over by her new city's unique energy, cultural vibrancy and gastronomic effervescence, she loves exploring all the coolest spots. A writer and blogger specialising in lifestyle, culture, travel and gastronomy, she has lent her pen to Tourisme Montréal for more than 10 years, in addition to magazines such as ELLE Québec and Clin d'œil, as well as a variety of well-known companies and agencies. Always on the lookout for innovative concepts and the best addresses wherever she is in the world, she is also always planning her next trip.