Now, while you might be feeling those Monday blues, rest assured, a new week means a new list of free things to do in Montreal.
While the city is bustling with non-stop festivals, new restaurant openings, and countless rooftop terrasses to enjoy a cold beverage on, you just might be interested in giving your wallet a break for a change.
Luckily, we've compiled a list of free activities in Montreal taking place this week for you to take advantage of. From free food and culture festivals, and beachy settings to catch the Montreal fireworks, all the way to free dance lessons and stand-up comedy shows, there's a little bit of everything for everyone.
Here are 11 free things to do in Montreal this week (July 22 to 26):
Catch a flick at the Fantasia Film Festival
When: July 18 to August 4
Where: Multiple Montreal cinemas
Why You Need To Go: Back for its 28th edition, North America's largest 'genre' film festival bridges the gap between the cutting edge and the mainstream, providing audience members — from industry pros to emerging artists to local fans — with the opportunity to see some of the best productions Canadian cinema has to offer. While many of the 300+ films require tickets, Fantasia also offers free programming each year. In 2023, all family-friendly "My First Fantasia" screenings were free, as were a couple of artist talks, a special screening of Jour de merde and more.
Enjoy a variety of poutines at Le Grand Poutinefest
When: July 17 to 28
Where: Old Port
Why You Need To Go: Montrealers can prepare to stuff their faces with Quebec's most iconic dish…poutine! Guests will be able to enjoy an array of poutine flavours and styles with former years offering up creations including general tao poutine, butter chicken poutine and a Tex-Mex mix on the chips, cheese and gravy concoction.
Watch the Montreal fireworks for free
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.
Laugh it up at the Just For Laughs festival
When: July 18 to 26 at 7 p.m.
Where: Scène Vidéotron — Place des Festivals
Why You Need To Go: With Just For Laughs officially making its comeback, you can catch none other than Montreal's very own Eva Alexo and Erika Suarez host the Sept à Huit happy hour session at the outdoor stage. You'll be able to enjoy stand-up comedians, fun and interactive games and some hilarious anecdotes from host Eva herself.
Get beachy at Village au-Pied-du-Courant
When: July 18 to 20 at 7 p.m. ($5 entry after 7 p.m.)
Where: 2380, rue Notre-Dame Est
Why You Need To Go: Montreal's ultimate beach party spot is back. Village au Pied-du-Courant reopens June 13, with the perfect mix of sun, sand, and music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday through September 21. With free entry before 7 p.m. and only $5 after, it's a great way to party on a budget this summer.
Test your knowledge at a Harry Potter trivia night
When: Thursday, July 25
Where: Moonshine — 5508, av. Monkland
Why You Need To Go: If you consider yourself to be a Harry Potter fan, then this trivia night needs to be on your list. With free entry, you can purchase your own food and drinks and test your knowledge when it comes to one of the most globally successful book and film series. Grab your sorting hats, wizard wands and invisible cloaks, and get ready for a night full of magical questions.
Laugh it up at Comedy on Crescent
When: Friday, July 26 at 8 p.m.
Where: La Poubelle Magnifique — 1221, rue Crescent
Why You Need To Go: Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, I've brought together some of the city's best comedians for an unforgettable night of Comedy. Gorgeous venue, with great drinks, and fantastic jokes. Comedy on Crescent is about fun for everyone. No Bigots. No Phobes. Just Jokes, the event description reads.
Get in a free workout with Le Social Club
When: Wednesday, July 24 at 7:15 a.m. (first wave) and 8:30 a.m. (second wave)
Where: Sir-Wilfred-Laurier Park — 5200, rue Brebeuf
Why You Need To Go: Le Social Club offers both running courses and a fitness club in downtown Montreal and in the Plateau across four days of the week. This Wednesday, you can opt to participate in a full fitness routine. Select whether you'd like to attend the first or second wave, and prepare for the ultimate hump day workout.
Get your dance on with free salsa lessons
A poster for an upcoming salsa lesson class featuring a group of people dancing.
Courtesy of Canadian Salsa Dance Corp
When: Thursday, July 25 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!
Take part in a free walking tour of Quartier des Spectacles
When: Thursday, July 25 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Place des Festivals
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, Justin Bur leads this exploration for the Quartier des Spectacles partnership.
Catch a stunning summer sunset
When: All summer
Where: Various parks across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Montreal is home to magical spots where golden hour hits a little differently. For those on the hunt for the ultimate place to catch the sunset on the Island, you should definitely check out Beaver Lake, Parc Rene-Levesque, Parc Jean-Drapeau, and so much more.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.