Hey, Montreal — while the weekend may be over, we've got an extra day to take advantage of the good weather and summer vibes.
With Canada Day falling on a Monday, tons of activities and events occur across the city to ring in the true north's 157th birthday. For those looking for other things to do in the city, don't fret — we've compiled a list of festivals and activities taking place in Montreal this week and the best part? It won't cost you a dime.
From Canada Day festivities, street performances, and circus acts, to free comedy shows and beach days, there's a little bit of everything for everyone.
Here are 15 free things to do in Montreal this week (July 1 to 5):
Canada Day in the Old Port
When: July 1 from 1:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Why You Need To Go: While Montreal's Canada Day parade may be cancelled, the Old Port is hosting an array of festivities to celebrate Canada's big day. Montrealers can attend the salute of honour by the Canadian armed forces and the swearing-in ceremony for new Canadians. The night also offers a rich program with activities for everyone, including a play area, Parks Canada workshops, children's makeup, free mini cupcakes, a relaxation space, and a musical performance by DJ Hools.
Side street performances on Av. du Musée
When: Wednesday, July 3 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Avenue du Musée (a portion of which is closed to traffic during the summer months)
Why You Need To Go: You'll be able to catch Dusty Brass Band and DJ Sugarface BelFo's musical performance combining hip-hop and traditional New Orleans rhythms. Passersby can also take a break in the sun in these lively surroundings while admiring the Museum's Sculpture Garden or taking part in the many free evening activities programmed throughout the summer.
Soak up the sun at Verdun beach
When: June 15 to September 2 — daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: 4110, boul. LaSalle
Why You Need To Go: Located behind the Verdun Auditorium, the beach has excellent public transit access, with the De l’Église metro station nearby as well as two bus lines (routes 37 and 12). It is also accessible by bike along the waterfront bicycle path. The beach access is free of charge.
Montreal Jazz Festival
When: June 27 to July 6
Where: Quartier des Spectacles
Why You Need To Go: The Montreal International Jazz Festival is probably already a fixture on every local's annual summer bucket list — and this 44th edition features massive names like André 3000, Norah Jones, Laufey and Killer Mike. While you shouldn't expect to see headliners without a ticket, Jazz Fest organizers are promising that two-thirds of the 350+ shows will be completely free. That's around 230 concerts your wallet will love as much as your ears do! The festival covers a variety of genres, but jazz lovers, and those looking to explore jazz music for the first time, are sure to be particularly satisfied.
Catch the Montreal fireworks
When: June 27 to August 1
Where: Recommended lookout points include the Old Port, Mount Royal Park, Clock Tower Beach, the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, the Concorde Bridge and Village au Pied-du-Courant
Why You Need To Go: While access to the world's most prestigious fireworks competition isn't technically free — in fact, it costs upwards of $65 to get a seat at La Ronde, where the festival is based — no one can charge us for looking up at the sky. And if we just so happen to witness magical-looking explosions of colourful light, as international pyrotechnic firms battle it out to see which country puts on the most dazzling show, whose fault is that? Certainly not ours.
Enjoy free circus acts across the city
Price: Free and paid programming
When: July 4 to 14
Where: Various venues in Montreal
Why You Need To Go: "Circus doesn't know impossible" is the tagline for this 15th edition of MONTRÉAL COMPLÈTEMENT CiRQUE — and you can expect the festival to prove its theme true through 11 days of stunning circus arts. Indoors and outdoors, digital and in-person, at venues, on the streets, in parks, on sidewalks and on stages, the circus will take over the city with "high-flying performances from here and around the world."
Laugh it up at an open mic comedy night
A poster for an upcoming open mic comedy night in Montreal featuring graphics and details of the event.
Courtesy of Balthazar B
When: Tuesday, July 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: 73, rue Beaubien E.
Why You Need To Go: "Un Autre Open-Mic à Montréal" is excited to present its new comedy night in Little Italy at Brasserie Beaubien! The goal is to give beginner comedians a chance to test their material and interact with more experienced ones, all for your enjoyment. Every other Tuesday, they will host about ten comedians who will each perform a five-minute set to entertain you. Admission is by voluntary contribution, so you can pay whatever you can afford (and the beer is really cheap!). It's the perfect way to kick off your week.
Dance it up at a free salsa lesson
A poster for an upcoming free salsa lesson course in Montreal with people dancing.
Courtesy of Canadian Salsa Dance Corporation
When: Thursday, July 4 at 6 p.m.
Where: Cabot Square
Why You Need To Go: Guests are invited to dance to the rhythms of the Adan de Dios band, featuring salsa, bachata, and much more. This outdoor event requires running shoes and a water bottle. Everyone is welcome! RSVP here and let's dance all summer long!
Test your knowledge at a free trivia night
A poster for an upcoming trivia night in Montreal with the event details.
Courtesy of Quiz Master Brian
When: Tuesday, July 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Church St. Pub — 552 Rue de l'Église
Why You Need To Go: Montreal's Quiz Master Brian will be hosting their recurring Thursday trivia night extravaganza where you'll be able to test your knowledge on a variety of topics. You'll be able to play in teams of two to six. However, only people who get their tickets together will be seated together. The event does not allow single participants or single reservations. The event will be hosted in French and English.
Participate in a free language exchange
When: Tuesday, July 2 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Birra Bar — 7129, boul. Saint-Laurent
Why You Need To Go: If you've been looking to make friends in Montreal, you can attend this weekly event at Birra Bar where you'll be able to hang out with other international residents, make connections and meet people with similar interests. While entry is free, you must purchase a beverage from the bar to participate fully.
Free walking tour of Quartiers des Spectacles
When: Thursday, July 4 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Place des Festivals at the corner of rue Balmoral and rue Saint-Catherine O.
Why You Need To Go: This guided tour takes participants on a journey through time, exploring picturesque streets, historic buildings, and cultural and academic Francophone institutions. From the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) to Espace St-Denis, and from Le Bordel Comédie Club to the Jeanne-Mance Habitations, guests will uncover the well-kept secrets and fascinating stories of the Latin Quarter. From its origins as an intellectual hub of French America to its evolution into a vibrant student and artistic district.
More about the free walking tour in Montreal
Relax at the Clock Tower Beach
When: From June 14 to September 2 the Clock Tower Beach will be open Monday to Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Thursday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why You Need To Go: The Clock Tower Beach features heaps of soft, silky sand, lounge chairs, colourful parasols and a wooden boardwalk. While swimming isn’t allowed, refreshing mist stations set up along the beach take the edge off of the summer heat. Located at the base of the Clock Tower, the beach affords a spectacular vantage of the St. Lawrence River, the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, Île Sainte-Hélène and Old Montréal.
Enjoy a picnic at Parc La Fontaine
When: July to September
Where: Parc La Fontaine — 3819 Av. Calixa-Lavallée
Why You Need To Go: With over 40 hectares of space, including a playground, skatepark, community centre, restaurant, outdoor stage and of course, the iconic pond where you can spot ducks and loads of other wildlife, this Plateau park is one of the most ideal locations for a summer picnic.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.