The weekend is fast approaching and if you've been looking for things to do in Montreal that won't break the bank, then we've totally got you covered.
While Montreal is already bustling with festival after festival, non-stop restaurant openings and loads of spring activities, attending events can certainly add up, so getting involved in free activities in Montreal is always a solid option.
From free yoga sessions, and stand-up shows, all the way to pop-up shops and used book sales, here are 11 free things to do in Montreal this weekend.
Get zen with a free meditation session
A poster for a free yoga session taking place in Montreal.
Courtesy of Isha Foundation
When: Saturday, April 27 from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
Where: Collège Ahunstic (Pavillon G) — 8955, rue St-Hubert
Why You Need To Go: Guests can experience transformative yoga during a free 90-minute session. You will be able to unlock health, joy, and inner peace with seven simple yet potent practices including directional arm movements, neck exercises, and more. The goal of the yoga session is to gain relief from chronic ailments, better sleep, and heightened focus. The session is suitable for ages seven and up, with minors needing to be accompanied by a guardian.
Laugh it up at a free comedy show
A poster for an upcoming free comedy night in Montreal.
Courtesy of LaughKnights
When: Friday, April 26 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Café Eevee — 1251, rue Saint-Zotique E.
Why You Need To Go: Laugh until your sides ache at Café Eevee's 'Stage of Honour' comedy show. Guests will be able to enjoy a night of uproarious entertainment with talented comedians guaranteed to keep you in stitches. Whether you're a comedy aficionado or just seeking a fun evening out, join LaughKnights for giggles, good vibes, and great company.
Wander through a photography exposition
A poster for an upcoming vernissage in Montreal.
Courtesy of @davidwallyrawalia | Instagram
When: Saturday, April 27 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: Pourquoi Pas Espresso Bar — 1447, rue Atateken
Why You Need To Go: According to the artist, this expo delves into their accumulated film strips, creating a collection of shots with unique stories. Rawalia has split the work into two categories: Street Aesthetics and Stage Art — all of which were captured on 35 mm film and printed on silver gelatin paper in a darkroom. The process is analogue from start to finish, and each print is unique. The photographs will be available for purchase.
Get glam at a pop up shop
A poster for an upcoming pop-up beauty market in Montreal.
Courtesy of Mondee Unlimited Beauty
When: Saturday, Arpil 27 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 6555, boul. Métropolitain E.
Why You Need To Go: Guests can dive into a treasure trove of unique finds at Mondee's pop-up event. From exquisite jewelry to body care, clothing, accessories, and delectable treats, there's a little something for everyone. While admission is free, it's recommended that you reserve a spot.
Attend a night of poetic justice
A poster for an upcoming poetry night in Montreal.
Courtesy of engAGE: Centre for Research on Aging
When: Friday, April 26 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 2155, rue Guy (room. ER 672, 6th floor)
Why You Need To Go: Hosted by RécitElles, a Montreal collective, this interactive workshop integrates slam, poetry, and djembe to explore themes of justice, inspiration, and hope. Guests will be able to discover the power of words to connect generations, provoke thought, and foster personal growth.
Enjoy a cosmic night with Nathan Hellner-Mestelman
When: Friday, April 26 at 1 p.m.
Where: Westmount Public Library — 4574, rue Sherbrooke O.
Why You Need To Go: Guests are invited to the launch of "Cosmic Wonder: Our Place in the Epic Story of the Universe" by 16-year-old author Nathan Hellner-Mestelman, in collaboration with Linda Leith Publishing. This humorous exploration of space offers a unique perspective on the universe. The event is free to attend and copies of the book will be available for purchase.
Sing your heart out at an open mic night
A poster for an upcoming open mic night at a Montreal restaurant.
Courtesy of Plateau Bistro
When: Friday, April 26 at 8 p.m.
Where: 901, rue Sherbrooke E.
Why You Need To Go: Guests can dive into those good Friday vibes at Plateau Bistro in Montreal's Plateau-Mont-Royal. You can enjoy themed nights highlighting diverse talents. The fun also continues with Cheap Shots Fridays, where $4 shots are served all night long. While admission is totally free, reserving a spot on the event page is required. Doors will open at 7:30 p.m.
Attend a newcomers karaoke night
A poster for an upcoming karaoke event for Canadian newcomers.
Courtesy of Carrefour d'aide aux nouveaux arrivals to Canada.
When: Saturday, April 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: La Maisonnette des parents — 6651 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Why You Need To Go: Join in on celebrating the second season of the "Rassemblons-Nous" project, where a family committee and its teenagers organize activities and foster connections with other families and the local community. The festivities kick off with a free buffet from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., followed by a family show from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and culminating in karaoke from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Used book sale
A poster for an upcoming used book sale in Montreal.
Courtesy of Eleanor London Côte Saint-Luc Public Library
When: April 27 and 28 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Eleanor London Côte Saint-Luc Public Library — 5801, boul. Cavendish
Why You Need To Go: Located within the Harold Greenspon Auditorium in Côte Saint-Luc, you can browse through so many great reads all of which are in good condition for "accessible prices." There will be books available for purchase for guests of all ages.
Catch the cherry blossom trees bloom
When: April to May
Where: Various locations across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Spring in Montreal brings a burst of colour as trees bloom across the city. The Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science provides an interactive map pinpointing over 300,000 public trees, including magnolias, cherry blossoms, lilacs, and crab apple trees. This way you can find your favourite blooms in Montreal with ease.
Enjoy a night of stand-up
A poster for an upcoming comedy show in Montreal.
Courtesy of Thibault Varin
When: Friday, April 26 at 8 p.m.
Where: Bar Le Jockey — 1309, rue Saint-Zotique E.
Why You Need To Go: Guests are welcome to the Glou Comedy Show — a charitable comedy night where you'll be entertained by six friendly and talented comedians, all hosted by the hilarious Virginie Courtiol (stepping in for Thibault, who's lost in Europe until May). Glou's mission is to make you laugh and have a great time, while also raising donations for the SOS Violent Conjugale association. The event is free to attend but donations are welcome at the door. The organizers recommend a donation of $5.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
