5 Fun things to do this weekend in Montréal! (June 12 - 14)
Festivals and events Leisure activities, nature and relaxation The city
As we roll into mid-June, Montréal comes alive with an electric energy, offering the perfect weekend blend of massive music festivals, vibrant street food markets, and world-class public art.
Welcome to Montréal!
To enjoy the best the city has to offer during your stay, please don't think of yourself as a tourist, but as one of us. Whether you're here for a few days, a few weeks or a few years, we're counting on you to enjoy Montréal in a spirit of respect, responsibility and celebration! Here's an article on our “Live like a local in Montréal” detailing how you can enjoy your stay.
1. Les Francos de Montréal
Montréal’s epic celebration of French-language music takes over downtown with an infectious energy. This massive 10-day festival features nearly 150 concerts spanning everything from hip-hop and indie rock to folk and electronic beats, seamlessly blending global icons with fresh local talent.
- Best for: Discovering global sounds, free outdoor parties, and experiencing the heart of the city's summer festival vibe.
- Location: Quartier des Spectacles (Downtown / Ville-Marie). Main outdoor stages are centred around Place des Festivals and the Promenade des Artistes.
2. POCHA MTL
Step into an immersive celebration of Korean culture, located right beside the scenic Lachine Canal. Inspired by traditional pojangmacha (breezy, tented street stalls), this bustling night market serves up delicious Korean barbecue, crispy fried chicken, savoury pancakes, and golden kogos (Korean-style corn dogs). Keep an eye out for dynamic K-Pop dance showcases and interactive cultural events.
- Best for: Foodies chasing authentic Asian street food, late-night snacking, and high-energy pop culture fans.
- Location: Peel Basin.
3. MURAL Festival
It is the final weekend to catch North America’s premier urban art movement in action. MURAL transforms the city into an open-air museum. You can watch international and local graffiti artists put the finishing touches on massive multi-story walls, while pop-up block parties and artisan markets line the pedestrianized pavement.
- Best for: Art lovers, street photographers, trendsetters, and anyone looking for an incredible afternoon stroll.
- Location: The Plateau-Mont-Royal, specifically along a fully pedestrianized stretch of Saint-Laurent Boulevard (popularly known as "The Main") between Sherbrooke Street and Mont-Royal Avenue.
4. Montréal Chamber Music Festival
Founded in 1995 by legendary cellist Denis Brott, this internationally acclaimed festival celebrates classical intimacy on a grand scale. This year’s lineup unites world-class virtuosos with brilliant emerging artists for striking world premieres and unexpected instrumental pairings.
- Best for: Classical music purists, acoustic enthusiasts, and refined indoor evening dates.
- Location: Various locations.
5. Water fun in Montréal
When the June humidity hits, locals head for the water. The city offers an incredible contrast of aquatic options: you can opt for a leisurely, elegant sightseeing cruise departing from the historic Old Port, or pack a bag for a day of sunbathing and paddle boarding on the shores of Parc Jean-Drapeau.
- Best for: Celebrating the heat, family-friendly daytime adventures, and catching unique skyline views from the St. Lawrence River.
- Location: The Old Port of Montréal (Vieux-Montréal) for boat tours and the Lachine Canal, Parc Jean-Drapeau for Jean-Doré Beach and water sports facilities, and more!
Daniel Baylis
Daniel Baylis is a writer, poet, and musician. Several years ago he moved to Montréal to chase silly bohemian dreams. And he’s still at it.
Facebook / Instagram / Twitter