Hey, Montreal — it's that time again…the weekend! With so many things to do in Montreal this summer season from non-stop festivals, to countless shows to catch and so many new restaurants to try, you might be interested in giving your wallet a break.
Luckily, we've compiled a list of free activities in Montreal this weekend including stand-up comedy shows, paint nights, and creative dance workshops all the way to science festivals and cultural celebrations — there's surely a little bit of everything for everyone.
Here are 10 free things to do in Montreal this weekend:
Feel the vibes of New Orleans
When: May 25 and 26
Where: Rue Notre-Dame between avenues 10e and 14e in Lachine
Why You Need To Go: Inspired by the lively street parties of New Orleans, a new festival is coming to Lachine, bringing together art, entertainment, games, and beer. The musical lineup features 15 free performances spanning genres from jazz to reggae, headlined by The Royal Pickles and Danny Rebel & The KGB. Festival-goers can savour products from Quebec's microbreweries, distilleries, and restaurants, and explore local artisans offering everything from crafts to tattoos, though these purchases will be at your own expense.
Attend the Greek Fest
A poster for the upcoming Greek Fest in Laval.
Courtesy of Xbox
When: May 26 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Embassy Plaza — 1003, boul. du Curé-Labelle, Laval
Why You Need To Go: Prepare for a delightful day featuring mouth-watering food, vibrant music, a kid's corner, free samples, a photo booth, and much more. Guests will be able to celebrate with the Greek community as they showcase over 55 Greek businesses. You can bring your family and friends to savour the tastes and traditions of Greece right here in town. Admission is completely free.
Try out a creative dance class
A poster for an upcoming creative dance session.
Courtesy of Centre Social D'Aide Aux Immigrants.
When: May 24 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 1600, rue Saint-Urbain
Why You Need To Go: his creative dance workshop, part of the Art Adapté program by Place des Arts and organized by the Centre Social D'Aide Aux Immigrants (CSAI), offers a unique opportunity to engage with Quebec culture, practice French, and meet new people. Designed to support integration and autonomy, this event is perfect for those looking to connect and experience the local arts scene.
More about the creative dance workshop
Laugh it up at a free comedy show
People sitting in a park watching a stand-up comedy show performance.
Courtesy of Comedy Gang.
When: May 25 from 7:45 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Parc Girouard — 3500, av. Girouard
Why You Need To Go: Guests are invited to enjoy a fun-filled evening of live stand-up comedy at Girouard Park every Saturday this summer season. You can bring your picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and drinks to enjoy top Canadian comedians in a cozy outdoor setting. This event, organized by Comedy Gang, has been a beloved NDG tradition for three years and is now entering its fourth edition. This free (pay-what-you-can) show takes place in the outfield of the baseball diamond at the corner of Ave Girouard and Chemin de la Cote-Sainte-Antoin.
Bop to an open mic night
A poster for an upcoming open mic night at a Montreal restaurant.
Courtesy of Plateau Bistro
When: May 24 at 7 p.m.
Where: Plateau Bistro — 901, rue Sherbrooke O.
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.
Freestyle it out with hip-hop music
A person wearing a white tank top performing on stage in a Montreal bar.
Courtesy of The Experiment
When: May 25 from 9 p.m. to midnight
Where: Bar Waverly — 5550, boul. Saint-Laurent
Why You Need To Go: You can experience a dynamic evening of freestyle hip-hop with a live band at Bar Waverly on June 7. This event, featuring talented artists who will improvise and perform with live instrumental accompaniment, promises an unforgettable night of music and creativity. Whether you're a hip-hop enthusiast or simply looking for a unique night out, this event is not to be missed.
Participate in Westmount's Family Day
Courtesy of Westmount Park
When: May 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Westmount Park – rue Sherbrooke O.
Why You Need To Go: Celebrate the start of summer in Westmount. Guests can enjoy a day filled with activities and games for children, meet your neighbors and community groups, and participate in fun events like painting skateboards and winning prizes. The event is free and offers activities including make-up booths, inflatable games, pony rides, a petting zoo, carnival booths, and more. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase on-site.
Enjoy a free paint night
A photo of various painting supplies and a table of figurines ready to be painted.
Courtesy of Three Kings Loot Inc.
When: May 25 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 1118, rue Sainte-Catherine O.
Why You Need To Go: Why You Need To Go: Montrealers can dive into a pool of creativity every Saturday at the Three Kings Loot Inc. paint night. Guests are encouraged to bring their figurines and paints or purchase a learn-to-paint kit with tutorials at the shop. You can join the team and paint terrain for Warhammer and RPGs or work on your very own art projects.
Attend the Canadian Independent Film Festival (CIFF)
A purple maple leaf.
Courtesy of CIFF
When: May 25 to 26
Where: Cinema Public — 505, rue Jean-Talon E.
Why You Need To Go: Guests will be able to enjoy the ultimate showcase of Canadian indie films at The Canadian Independent Film Festival 2024. The CIFF emerges as a beacon of independence in the vibrant mosaic of Canadian culture. At the core of CIFF's mission lies the promotion of independent film culture, coupled with a dedication to nurturing minority voices, thus empowering marginalized communities within the industry.
Science it up at Festival Eurêka!
When: May 24 to 26
Where: Beside the Biosphere at Parc Jean-Drapeau, 160, chem. du Tour de l'isle
Why You Need To Go: Quebec's largest science celebration is back, offering three days of scientific discovery. Eurêka! features over 100 free outdoor activities, including more than 25 interactive lectures and shows, 50+ creative hands-on workshops, experiments, street performances, theatre, and magic. It's an event that's both fun and educational for the entire family.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
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