Mondays can be rough, but a new week brings a host of new things to do in Montreal.
Non-stop festivals, new restaurant openings, and plenty of shows might mean you want to give your wallet a rest. Plus, who doesn't love a free activity?
We've compiled a list of free things to do in Montreal this week, from hilarious stand-up comedy shows and free festivals to F1 festivities and a brain-teasing trivia night.
Here are 11 free activities happening in Montreal this week:
Check out some luxury cars
When: June 7 to 9
Where: Across Montreal (with a focus on downtown, the Old Port and Parc Jean-Drapeau)
Why You Need To Go: Car lovers and F1 fans can set their eyes on some of the hottest and most luxe vehicles including an assortment of McLarens, Lamborghinis, Rolls Royces and so many more — parked or cruising down the streets of Montreal. A series of race car models will also be on display at various venues and events across Montreal during F1 this year.
Funk it up at Fringe Festival
When: May 27 to June 16
Where: Various venues and parks across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: The Montreal Fringe Festival is an annual celebration of independent arts in Montreal. The festival features diverse performances in theatre, dance, music, comedy, and multimedia. With events in various venues, including the MainLine Theatre and the Fringe Park, it fosters community through workshops, panels, and free gatherings. Known for its inclusivity and eclectic atmosphere, the festival is a key cultural event that supports artists and enriches Montreal's cultural scene. The festival has both free and paid events.
Discover new art at MURAL Festival
When: June 6 to 16
Where: Use the map to discover murals across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Montreal's yearly urban art festival metamorphoses the city into an open-air exhibition of colossal murals and installations. While admission fees apply to the block parties, witnessing renowned street artists' craft marvels before you is absolutely free. Moreover, a number of complimentary activities, including performances, awaits in the Saint-Laurent Zone. Accessibility is ensured throughout the festival grounds for individuals with reduced mobility.
Enjoy free activities at Jean-Talon Market
When: June 6 until October 20
Where: Marché Jean-Talon — 7070, av. Henri Julien
Why You Need To Go: Experience a summer of excitement at Jean-Talon Market! From June 6 to October 20, Place-du-Marché-Nord transforms into a pedestrian haven every Thursday through Sunday, including holidays, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy free educational activities for all ages, with new street furniture creating cozy spaces for relaxation. The event zone, northwest of the market, hosts thrilling programs every Saturday and Sunday, featuring roving performances, cooking workshops, and gardening sessions.
Adopt a small animal from the SPCA
When: June 5 to 9 (3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends)
Where: Montreal SPCA — 5215, rue Jean-Talon O.
Why You Need To Go: The Montreal SPCA is hosting a week of reduced adoption fees for dogs and cats ($50) and free adoption for rabbits, exotic animals, and small animals. So, if you've been looking to expand the fam with a new friend, and have the room in your home and heart for an animal, adopt away!
Stroll through a vernissage
A poster for an upcoming vernissage exhibition in Montreal.
Courtesy of Vues d'Afrique
When: Thursday, June 2 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Conseil des arts de Montreal — 1210, rue Sherbrooke E.
Why You Need To Go: The Montreal Arts Council, in collaboration with Vues d'Afrique, is hosting the new exhibition "Vues d'Afrique, 40 years, 40 posters" this week. The vernissage will showcase recent works by active laureates as well as pieces by six artists whose creations were lost in the Bon Pasteur building fire. Highlights include the launch of the album "Vues d'Afrique: 40 years" and a musical reception.
Enjoy the musical talents of the Citrus Singers
A poster for an upcoming musical performance in Montreal.
Courtesy of ACFEA Tour Consultants
When: Monday, June 3 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours-Chapel — 400, rue Saint-Paul E.
Why You Need To Go: Guests will be able to experience the enchanting harmonies of the renowned Citrus Singers from Los Angeles, California, as they perform a selection of classical acapella masterpieces. Admission is free, so don't miss this opportunity to be serenaded by some of the finest vocal talents in the city.
Participate in a free quiz night
A graphic neon sign for an upcoming quiz night in Montreal.
Courtesy of Jack Astor's
When: Tuesday, June 4 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Jack Astor's Bar & Grill Dorval — 3051, boul. des Sources, Dorval, QC
Why You Need To Go: Get ready to test your smarts in our TV-themed quiz where the questions pop up onscreen, and you answer with your trusty mobile device — no apps needed. Hosted by the Jack Astor's team, the evening will be packed with prizes, laughter, and friendly competition. Whether you're flying solo or bringing your crew, everyone's welcome to join in on the fun.
Laugh it up at a stand-up comedy show
A poster for an upcoming comedy show in Montreal.
Courtesy of Vrai Open mic
When: Wednesday, June 5 at 8 p.m.
Where: Bar Au P'tit Buck — 2480, rue Jean-Talon E.
Why You Need To Go: This comedy night, open to everyone, features both seasoned Quebec stand-up stars and newbies performing for the first time. It's held at P'tit Buck, a newly renovated neighbourhood tavern across from the Iberville metro station on the Blue Line, with nearby street parking available. Admission is free, with doors opening at 7 p.m., sign-ups at 7:30 p.m., and the show will start at 8 p.m. Please note that even if online tickets are marked as "sold out", spots will still be available on the night of.
Take advantage of a free guided tour of Montreal
A group of people walking down a street.
Quartiers des Spectacles Montreal
When: Wednesday, June 5 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Place Pasteur (next to Université du Québec à Montréal and the Berri-UQAM metro station on rue Saint-Denis)
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.
Test your knowledge at a free trivia night
A poster for an upcoming trivia comedy show in Montreal.
Courtesy of World's Smallest
When: Wednesday, June 5 at 8 p.m.
Where: Hurley's Irish Pub — 1225, rue Crescent
Why You Need To Go: You can join in for a lively trivia night at Hurley's Irish Pub where you can put your knowledge to the test and enjoy a fun-filled evening with friends in the heart of Montréal. The pub offers the perfect setting for a memorable night out. So gather your team and get ready to tackle a wide range of trivia questions — from history to pop culture to sports, there's something for everyone.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
