5 Fun things to do this weekend in Montréal! (May 22 - 24)

The crown jewel of Montréal’s sport calendar, the F1 Grand Prix du Canada, is more than just a race. It’s a city-wide takeover. While the elite drivers tear up the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, the downtown core transforms into a pedestrian paradise filled with luxury car displays, street parties, and high-octane nightlife. This year, don't miss the F1 Academy, showcasing the top talent in women’s racing, or the new evening concert series included with General Admission.

• Best for: Adrenaline junkies, sports fans, and those looking for the city’s biggest parties.
• Location: Parc Jean-Drapeau (Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve), with satellite festivities on Crescent Street and Peel Street downtown.

Start your engine

Montréal is the birthplace of Cirque du Soleil, and seeing a show under the iconic “Big Top” is a rite of passage. Their latest production, ECHO, is a visually stunning exploration of the relationship between humans and the animal world. Using ground-breaking stagecraft and gravity-defying acrobatics, it tells the story of FUTURE and her journey through a world of hope and empathy.

• Best for: Families, art enthusiasts, and visitors looking for a world-class theatrical experience.
• Location: Under the Big Top at the Old Port of Montréal (Quays of the Old Port).

Join the circus

May 24 marks the official 150th birthday of Mount Royal Park, the "green lung" of the city designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. This Sunday is the perfect time to join the Tam-Tams, the massive, informal drum circle that gathers at the George-Étienne Cartier Monument. Pack a picnic, hike to the Kondiaronk Belvedere for the best view of the skyline, and toast to a century and a half of history.

• Best for: Nature lovers, budget travellers, and anyone wanting a quintessential "local" Sunday.
• Location: Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal), specifically around Beaver Lake and the Monument.

Take a hike

Step into Montreal’s most creative enclave for Mile End en Fête. This neighbourhood festival celebrates the unique DNA of the Mile End: think world-famous bagels, independent boutiques, and a thriving arts scene. Expect several streets to be closed to traffic, making room for live musical acts, pop-up art installations, and a festive atmosphere that highlights the city's community spirit.

• Best for: Hipsters, foodies, and travellers who want to explore Montréal's local, artistic side.
• Location: Various streets throughout Mile End (Such as Laurier and Bernard streets).

Mingle like a local

If love a late night party, head to the Société des arts technologiques (SAT). This temple of digital art and electronic music is hosting an ALL NIGHT event that blurs the lines between trance, techno, and electro. Featuring Dutch DJ mad miran, Belgian curator Nosedrip, and local legend Dijipoune, this is the place to experience Montréal’s world-renowned underground club culture.

• Best for: Electronic music purists and late-night revellers looking to dance until dawn.
• Location: Espace SAT, 1201 Saint-Laurent Blvd (Quartier des Spectacles).

Get tickets

The local hockey team — known as the Montréal Canadiens or “Habs” — are playing in the Stanley Cup playoffs. This city goes bonkers for hockey and you can join in the fun. We have some great places to watch the game.

• Best for: Sports fans and those seeking the thrill of a crowd
• Location: Across the city!

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