The weekend is fast approaching and you might be looking for things to do in Montreal. We've totally got you covered with a bunch of free activities between March 21 to 24.
From in-person and virtual seminars and free festivals all the way to meditation sessions, open mic nights and stand-up comedy shows, Montreal is bursting with activities that won't break the bank.
Here are 11 things to do in Montreal this weekend that are completely free and fun.
Learn all about AI
A poster for an AI conference being held in Montreal.
Courtesy of Héros de Chez Nous
When: March 23, 2024, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Where: Université de Sherbrooke, Campus Longueuil — 150, pl. Charles-Le Moyne, Longueuil, QC
Why You Need To Go: Artificial intelligence is all the rage right now, and for Montealers who wish to brush up on their AI skills or learn more about the technology, a free AI seminar is taking place at the Université de Sherbrooke this weekend. Guests will be able to discover the exciting future of artificial intelligence and its impact on professions. Access to the conference is possible via the Montreal Metro.
Attend the Montreal Audiofest
A poster for the Montreal 2024 Audiofest event.
Courtesy of Audiofest.ca
When: March 22 to 24, 2024
Where: Hôtel Boneventure — 900, rue de la Gauchetière O., Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Guests will be able to immerse themselves in the realm of premium sound quality and explore the latest advancements in audio technology. From top-of-the-line speakers to cutting-edge headphones, you'll have the opportunity to test and compare a diverse array of audio equipment. The event is completely free for those 18 years of age and under.
Sing your heart out at karaoke
When: March 23, 2024, at 9:30 p.m.
Where: Centaur Theatre – 453, rue Saint Francois Xavier, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Who doesn't love a karaoke moment? The Centaur is hosting a Queer karaoke night as a musical complement to the play "Guilt,' which is currently on at the theatre. All are welcome to the event, hosted by Anton May, where you can sing your heart out to a selection of ballads and anthems made famous by LGBTQ+ icons. As always, admission is free to all Centaur Music Series events.
Visit a menswear market
A poster for a menswear edition clothing swap and sale.
Courtesy of Studio 513
When: March 23, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 5333, rue Casgrain, Montreal, QC (Studio 513)
Why You Need To Go: The Out of the Closet experience is back for a Not All Menswear (with a focus on masculine clothing and vendors with menswear) event where guests can swap and sell clothing and accessories this weekend in Montreal's Mile-End. Entry is completely free and you can browse through racks and racks of secondhand clothing. For those interested in the free swap, you can find the swap section in piles throughout the sale. It's recommended to bring items that can be added to the trading pile if you can.
Learn (and listen) all things opera
A poster for an upcoming free opera session in Montreal.
Courtesy of Let's Talk Opera!
When: March 24, 2024, from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.
Where: Victoria Hall Community Centre — 4626, rue Sherbrooke O., Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: The Let's Talk Opera! series provides an inviting introduction to a variety of operas featured throughout the season. Led by musicologist Pierre Vachon, accompanied by singers and a pianist, Let's Talk Opera! delves into the essence of the works in just 60 minutes. Explore topics such as history, music, vocal performances, cultural significance, composers, styles, and more, while enjoying musical excerpts performed by opera singers.
Attend a covers performance night
A poster for a cover performance night in Montreal.
Courtesy of Centaur Theatre
When: March 22, 2024, at 9:30 p.m.
Where: Centaur Theatre – 453, rue Saint Francois Xavier, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Guests can prepare for a night of fun and fundraising as talented vocalists take the stage to share their favourite guilty pleasure songs, accompanied by the talented pianist Chris Barillaro. This event, in partnership with the play "Guilt" at the Centaur, supports the LGBTQIA+ non-profit AGIR.
Stroll through a vintage market
A poster for a vintage market in Montreal.
Courtesy of Le Marché Vintage
When: March 23, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Église St-Ambroise — 6510, rue de Normanville, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Vintage enthusiasts will be able to dive through over 35 vendors' worth of clothing. There will also be an abundance of trendy vintage accessories, jewelry, and other treasures to explore and purchase. Shoppers will also be able to groove to retro tunes spun by vinyl DJ Park Avenue throughout the day. Admission is completely free.
Melt your worries away with a free meditation course
A person meditating with their eyes closed on top of their bed.
Courtesy of Mindfulness and Yoga in Montreal.
When: March 23, 2024, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: 7835, ave. des Érables, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Participants will be able to embark on a journey of self-discovery at this free meditation workshop, harmonizing ancient practices with contemporary lifestyles. This complimentary event accommodates all, with donations gratefully accepted. Although the event is free, it's necessary to reserve your spot. Also, remember to bring along a pillow, cushion, or yoga mat for comfortable meditation.
Go to an open mic night
A poster for an open mic night at a Montreal restaurant.
Courtesy of Plateau Bistro
When: March 22, 2024, at 8 p.m.
Where: Plateau Bistro — 901, rue Sherbrooke, E., Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Whether you want to simply watch or perform, guests will be able to immerse themselves in the exciting atmosphere of Plateau Bistro this Friday night. The Montreal restaurant hosts Open Mic Fridays, where they showcase a variety of talents with themed nights. Afterward, you can indulge in Cheap Shots Fridays, kickstarting your weekend fun with $4 shots from 4 p.m. onwards. The open mic night is completely free to attend but reservations must be made in advance.
Release your inner gamer
A poster for a free game night taking place in Montreal.
Courtesy of GOGO-VR
When: March 22 and March 23 at 8 p.m.
Where: 2010, boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Every Friday and Saturday from 8 p.m. 'to midnight, Montrealers can enjoy a free-for-all game night extravaganza. You can enjoy music, snacks, and drinks while you play Xbox, PC, Switch, and retro games like Game Cube and PlayStation 2. You can also challenge your friends in popular titles like FIFA 2023, Call of Duty, and Super Smash Ultimate, or relive the classics with over 30 retro games. Plus, dive into favourites like Street Fighter and Super Smash, featuring over 300 games. All games are free to use except for the VR games.
Laugh it up at a free stand-up comedy show
A poster for a free stand up comedy show in Montreal.
Courtesy of Loic Dubois
When: March 24, 2024, at 8 p.m.
Where: MR250 Bar Salon — 250, ave. du Mont-Royal E., Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Montrealers will be able to experience Montreal's most rock 'n roll open mic night. Guests are invited (for free) to laugh out loud among friends and good vibes, all just a three-minute walk from Mont-Royal Metro. The event will showcase the talents of Loic Dubois, Vincent Rivalry and seven other invited comics.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.