What better time to rediscover the many facets of our city and fall in love again with its rich cultural heritage, not to mention its many culinary offers and the irresistible joie de vivre! From planning culinary adventures to organizing a weekend getaway, we are here to ensure you a most memorable experience. Nothing in life is guaranteed but we can assure you that we will do our utmost best to make it happen.
December 10, 11, 12, 17 & 19, 2024 - Place Des Arts/Maison Symphonique
Since its founding in 1934, the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal has distinguished itself as a leader in the orchestral life of Canada and Québec. A cultural ambassador of the highest order, the Orchestra has earned an enviable reputation internationally through the quality of its many recordings and tours. Internationally acclaimed conductor Rafael Payare was named the OSM's Music Director Designate for the 2021--2022 season following a unanimous vote by the Orchestra's selection committee. The Venezuelan conductor will commence full duties in 2022--2023--his tenure will last a minimum of five years--becoming the ninth Music Director in the OSM's history.
December 05 & 06, 2024 - Places des Arts/Maison Symphonique
Comprised of Quebec-born musicians, who are also mainly Quebec-trained, the Orchestre Métropolitain boasts an international calibre of excellence as an organization dedicated to promoting wider public access to classical music and to strong community involvement, as well as to artistic innovation and creativity. The Orchestre Métropolitain owes its international calibre to the quality and reputation of its Principal Conductor and Artistic Director, Yannick Nézet-Séguin.
December 12 to 30, 2024 -- Place des Arts/Salle Wilfrid Pelletier
In Montreal, the holiday season wouldn't be complete without The Nutcracker. This timeless classic created by Fernand Nault is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year! Cherished by generations of children, this two-act ballet based on Hoffmann's classic tale is set to Tchaikovsky's enchanting score and brings together over one hundred dancers.
Follow the charming Clara and treat yourself to a getaway to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. Shimmering sets and costumes, comical turns and exquisite pas de deux are all in store. The Nutcracker is a moment of eternity where dreams miraculously come true and where magic becomes real. A fabulous adventure to warm the hearts of the young and the not-so-young!
December 27, 2024 to January 05, 2025 -- Centre Bell
A magnificent ladybug captures the eye of an awkward, unusual insect who has just moved into this lively neighborhood, and the two instantly fall in love.
OVO is overflowing with contrasts. The hidden, secret world at our feet is revealed as tender and torrid, noisy and quiet, peaceful and chaotic.
December 01, 07, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15 ,18 & 19, 2024 -- Bourgie Hall
Recitals, chamber music, vocal art, Baroque music, jazz, world music, family shows, and more: each year, Bourgie Hall produces over a hundred concerts at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts in its exceptional venue.
Inaugurated in September 2011, Bourgie Hall offers top-rate artistic programming and welcomes on its stage Canadian and international artists in equal numbers. Whether they are just starting out or already critically acclaimed, these
musicians are chosen to perform in Bourgie Hall on the basis of their immense talent. The public can't go wrong: audiences know that they can count on the quality of concerts "approved by Bourgie Hall!" In addition to offering remarkable concerts at affordable prices, Bourgie Hall organizes music workshops for families and amateur musicians. These friendly encounters enable participants to develop their musical gifts in a convivial environment.
Bourgie Hall's programming also brings out astonishing connections between music and art collections. To be discovered at the concerts or during events in the Museum's exhibition rooms!
November 20 to December 01, 2024 -- Various Theatres and Online
One of North America's leading documentary film festivals. Each year, the RIDM presents more than 150 Canadian and international documentaries. Its industry event, Forum RIDM, is Quebec's only documentary forum.
Based in Montreal, a city that has produced some of the most important documentary filmmakers in the history of cinema, the RIDM seeks first and foremost to promote and reflect on the most stimulating and diverse visions of
documentary cinema. From works dealing with hot-button issues to daring creations that renew the language of cinema, the RIDM's selections are aimed at an annual renewal of our relationship with the world and with the documentary as an art form.
The festival screens more than one hundred films made by filmmakers from all over the world, installations as well as Virtual Reality. Masterclasses and debates, the RIDM works to bring artists and audiences together. Afterwards, everyone is welcome to gather in the festival headquarters, which boasts an ambiance designed to celebrate everything doc
November 15 to December 08, 2024 -- Various Locations (see schedule online)
ounded in 2005 by Alexandra Scheibler, the Festival Bach Montréal is North America's premier destination for the timeless musical genius of Johann Sebastian Bach and the cultural legacy he inspired. Each year, in November and December, Festival Bach Montréal presents some thirty events (recitals, concerts, open rehearsals, discussions, children's events, etc.) over a three-week period, bringing together more than 20,000 local and international festival-goers. The Festival Bach Montréal takes place across a dozen different venues in the city, including the Maison symphonique, the Bourgie Hall of the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, and many churches in Montreal. The artists that have been welcomed to the festival over the years include some of the biggest names on the international classical music scene as well as young talents from across Canada and abroad. Ton Koopman and Julie Payette have been in turn patron and honorary patron of the festival respectively.
December 22, 2024 -- Church of St-Andrew & St-Paul
Founded in 1984 by Yuli Turovsky, the I Musici de Montréal Chamber Orchestra has been sharing its passion for classical music for over 35 years. The 15 exceptional musicians who make up the orchestra bring to life a varied repertoire ranging from the 17th century to the present day, accompanied by their principal guest conductor and artistic advisor Jean-François Rivest. With a program based on tradition, originality and innovation, the Orchestra stands out for the place it gives to numerous emerging and renowned artists with whom it partners to offer you a colorful and meaningful musical experience. I Musici de Montréal has built a solid reputation thanks to its numerous international tours and 40 recordings that meet the highest standards. The Orchestra also acts as a creative catalyst within the city of Montreal and continues to strengthen its roots in the community by collaborating with various organizations and schools on its territory.
December 08, 2024 to January 12, 2025 -- Segal Centre of Performing Arts
Montreal, don't miss this rare opportunity to experience this tribute to one of Canada's most beloved artists, after several sold out engagements in Toronto. Leonard Cohen constantly reinvented himself throughout his long career, helping generations of fans understand the changing society around them. His extraordinary life, music, and poetry will be celebrated by a remarkable company of artists.
November 27 to December 01, 2024 - Exhibition at the Palais des congrès de Montréal
At the origin of the Salon du livre de Montréal, there is passion. Passion for the book. Passion for reading to share. Passion that has never wavered, from 1950 to the present day.
December 12 to 24, 2024 - Palais des congrès de Montréal
A new meeting space at the heart of a multifunctional and ultramodern site. For 65 years, the Salon des Métiers d'Art du Québec (SMAQ) has been the premier meeting place for Quebec creation. Bringing together the greatest local craftsmen, and welcoming 350 exhibitors from all over Quebec, Canada and internationally, this major cultural event is a must in Montreal, a privileged meeting with the creators and the creators. The products exhibited and sold at the Salon are recognized as crafts, according to the norms and standards of the Conseil des métiers d'art du Québec.
October 04, 2024 to January 12, 2025 -- Arsenal Contemporary Art
Dive into Tintin's Legendary Adventures as He and His Friends Step Out of the Comic Books and Come to Life Around You!
Following the success of Tintin, The Immersive Adventure in Paris, Brussels, Bordeaux, Les Baux-de-Provence and Lausanne, this unique creation arrives at Arsenal Contemporary Art Montreal on October 4, 2024.
Tintin, The Immersive Adventure pays tribute to Hergé and the famous Belgian reporter, from the first 1929 edition of Tintin in the Land of the Soviets to the latest publications. The great traveller, whose adventures have been part of popular culture for nearly 100 years, will visit Montreal to the delight of the youngest to longtime fans.
For the occasion, the entire family from Hergé's famous work will be present: Tintin, Snowy and the loyal entourage, including Captain Haddock, Thomson and Thompson, Professor Calculus, Bianca Castafiore and many others.
The immersive experience, a coproduction between Culturespaces Studio and Tintinimaginatio, and presented by VIBRANT Studios, will plunge you into the nostalgia of this fascinating universe.
November 23 to December 30, 2024 -- Canadian Railway Museum
Exporail, the Canadian Railway Museum will transport its visitors into the Magic of Christmas. Many vehicles will be decorated and illuminated in the Grand Gallery, activities will be offered and Santa will meet the visitors! Railway Christmas is a must-see event for the whole family!
November 22 to December 30, 2024 -- Quartier des Spectacles
The Quartier des spectacles is dressed up in its finest attire After several years of absence, the Great Montreal Christmas Market is back with a fresh and new look.
From November 22th to December 30th, 2024, locals and visitors alike will have the pleasure of discovering it on Jeanne Mance Street.
The public can be enchanted by one of the 40 chalets of local or regional artisans, by the musical and theatrical programming or by the sweet smell of mulled wine, among other delicacies.
November 25, 2024 to January 08, 2025 -- Pointe-À-Callière Museum
For the holiday season, Pointe-à-Callière will transform into a place of enchantment where young and old can enjoy creative activities and unwind in an outdoor relaxation area.
Starting November 25, come to Place Royale in the heart of Old Montréal to set your sights on our seasonal decor that conjures up the coziness of ski chalets while paying tribute to winter sports. Take a break from the holiday hubbub and get comfy on our stools surrounded by light-adorned trees. The only thing missing may be a mug of hot chocolate!
From December 26 to 30, come to the big igloo in front of the Museum to hear Befana, Melchior, Pascual and Santa Claus tell you about Christmas legends from around the world.
November 30, 2024 to January 05, 2025 -- McCord Museum
Montrealers have been spellbound by the mechanical displays in Ogilvy's department store window for over 70 years -- a Holiday tradition that began in 1947. The Bavarian scenes, custom made by the German toy manufacturer Steiff, feature dozens of handcrafted animals working and playing.In 1911, the firm began producing mechanical windows featuring moving animals, which stores could rent or purchase -- an effective way of entertaining children while promoting their merchandise. James Aird Nesbitt, who owned Ogilvy's department store from 1927 to 1985, bought two -- The Enchanted Village and The Mill in the Forest.Similar to those of department stores in other parts of the world, such as Macy's in New York or Galeries Lafayette in Paris, these window displays are among the last of their kind in North America. They were donated to the McCord Stewart Museum in March 2018 by Holt Renfrew with the goal of preserving and ensuring the continuation of the iconic Montreal displays.The Museum is proudly maintaining this holiday tradition that has amazed Montrealers of all ages for over 75 years!
Light, creativity and Nordicness come together for Lumino, the unmissable Montreal winter event, which returns in a renewed version for its 15th edition.
Discover contemplative and luminous participatory works, indoors and outdoors, and let yourself be seduced by an evolving and dazzling program that warms the cold nights in the heart of the metropolis and the Quartier des spectacles. Place des Arts will host three of these works on its outdoor Esplanade.
December 05 & 06, 2024 -- Centaur Theater
Featuring McGill Jazz Performance Students Under the Direction of Jazz Legend Ranee LeeKick off the holiday season at the Holiday House Party @ Centaur, featuring the talents of 16 students from McGill's Jazz Performance program, led by the legendary jazz vocalist Ranee Lee herself. Join us as we reinvent holiday classics with a fresh, jazzy twist! This homey evening of holiday music is the perfect way to launch the season of lights. For an exclusive 2-night run taking place December 5 and 6, the next generation of jazz artists will transform Centaur into the perfect place to escape the winter weather and enjoy an evening of music and merriment. Don't miss these gifted performers--8 singers and 8 instrumentalists--from the McGill Schulich School of Music, all trained by Oscar Peterson Award-winning jazz legend Ranee Lee.
December 13 to 15, 2024 -- Mont Tremblant
The 24h of skiing event is accessible to everyone! It's a fundraiser that benefits children, it's a skiing or snowboard relay race that kicks off on Saturday morning, lasting until Sunday morning, and it's a 3-day festival of concerts and entertainment!
December 06, 07, 08, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19 & 21, 2024 -- l'Église St-Jean-Baptiste, à la Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-bon-Secours et à l'Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs !
These magnificent candle-lit classical music concerts are in Montreal!
Montreal now hosts the famous classical music concerts that have caused a stir around the world! Candlelight shows adopt a new concept that engages all of your senses for a magical musical experience. Do not miss ! This series of candlelit concerts, simply named "Candlelight", invites you to relive the greatest moments of classical music in the most magical places of Montreal. In an intimate and warm atmosphere, rediscover the works of Vivaldi, Mozart, Chopin or even Beethoven. After having been a huge success around the world - in cities like New York, Barcelona or London - this unique experience is finally coming to Montreal.
December 2024 to March 2025 -- Basin Bonsecours
At the Old Port, the joys of winter come earlier than anywhere else, thanks to the skating rink opening on December 1! Perfect ice, incredible views of historic Old-Montreal and the river, and dynamic, exhilarating and entertaining activities are what await you at the Old Port skating rink all winter long! The great music and special lighting only add to the fun!
Notre-Dames Basilica
A luminous experience in the heart of the Basilica Light unveils the richness of Notre-Dame's heritage and invites you to celebrate its beauty. The AURA Experience immerses you in a captivating visual and musical universe, presented upon one of the most sublime canvases imaginable: the French-inspired, Gothic Revival architectural interior of Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal. The experience offers a four-act multimedia display of dynamic light, orchestral music, and expressive architecture.
Year round exhibits -- Palais des Congrès
OASIS immersion offers a new, permanent, all-immersive 2,200 m2 (over 23,500 ft2 ) space located on the ground floor of the Palais des congrès de Montréal. The site is home to enthralling exhibitions inspired by the people, places and ideas that shape and galvanize our world, here and now. OASIS immersion is a sort of immersive magazine where spirited minds come to refuel and escape the routine of everyday life. There, visitors find fresh new ideas and inspiring works. It's a place to rethink society and its foundations through the prism of optimism. The mood is upbeat, energizing and inspiring, one that calls to action. Light and movement are at the heart of the experience and this is reflected in our logo. The rays of the light spectrum criss-cross, reminiscent of the rich yet playful multi-sensorial projections of light, sounds, colours and themes, while the esthetics of the logo draw on contrasts and refinement.
Developed by local entrepreneurs and creatives, the OASIS immersion space features a world-class contactless, walk-through experience. 3X All-Immersive Galleries, 2X Light Exhibits, 1X Lounge & 1X Podcast.
Since July 20, 2017 -- Mont Tremblant
Montreal multimedia phenom Moment Factory has just launched a new nature walk. A night walk in search of the giant! Deep in the heart of Mont Tremblant, the last of the giants has awoken. Follow your sense of adventure to discover the secret he wants to share. The Tonga Lumina illuminated trail is a sensory experience in the forest. This 1.5-km nocturnal walk takes place on a stone dust pathway at the heart of nature. To start off, visitors show up at the bottom of the Flying Mile chairlift that will take them up to the midway station where they will be led to the entrance
of the trail. After taking visitors on a brief ascension, the trail slowly weaves its way down the hill through the woods, crosses streams and clearings. Participants can anticipate being on the pathway an average of one hour. Departures are continuous from sunset to closing, with a maximum of 300 people admitted per half-hour on the course
Opened in February 2022 -- Quartier des Spectacles
Esplanade Tranquille is the newest public space in the Quartier des Spectacles. Montrealers are welcome to visit this fun and inviting all-seasons spot, inspired by urban backyards. Families and other visitors will discover a diverse and entertaining cultural program -- a true reflection of the city. Esplanade Tranquille is named in honour of the Tranquille bookstore, once located on the site, and its owner, Henri Tranquille (1916-2005). It is an important site in contemporary Quebec history, having hosted the launch of the Refus global manifesto in 1948.
Throughout Old Montréal
Loosely inspired by the history of Montreal, Cité Mémoire invites you to meet a host of characters who've witnessed the city's evolution first-hand. Poetic, dreamlike and occasionally playful, the tableaux come alive with images, words and music. Projected throughout Old Montreal, the work appears on the very walls that surround us, the ground on which we walk, the trees that frame our present. A creation by Michel Lemieux and Victor Pilon, in collaboration with Michel Marc Bouchard.
