7 FREE things to do in Montreal this weekend
Beautiful weather, Oktoberfest, anime trivia and more! 🌤️
Dan Livingstone with his band, playing music at a Montreal public market during Oktoberfest. Right: The view of Montreal from Mont Royal.
We’re in that perfect seasonal sweet spot — pumpkin spice lattes have made their debut, but spooky season hasn’t fully taken over just yet. It’s all about rocking your favourite cozy sweater, picking apples at local orchards, and soaking up this last stretch of good weather.
The forecast is teasing a gorgeous weekend in Montreal before snow falls and chilly temperatures roll in later this month.
If you want to enjoy the sunshine without emptying your wallet (after all, Christmas is only 83 days away), here are seven free things to do in Montreal for the weekend of October 4 to 6.
Explore Oktoberfest at a Montreal market
When: Saturday, October 5 and Sunday, October 6
Where: Jean-Talon Market – 7070, av. Henri Julien
Why You Should Go: A plane ticket to Germany? In this economy? Why fork out that kind of dough when you can get into Jean-Talon Market's Oktoberfest for free. A press release from Marchés publics de Montréal promises a "festive harvest-season ambiance" along with lively music, good food and entertainment for all — including mini-golf and gourmet workshops. For an added cost ($3.50 per tasting glass and $4 per 5-ounce beer), you can also enjoy samples of craft Pilsners, India Pale Ales, Stouts, Lagers, Porters and more from dozens of local microbreweries. Próst!
Sing your heart out at karaoke
When: Saturday, October 5 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Montreal Improv – 3716, rue Notre-Dame O.
Why You Need To Go: Sing your way into October with an evening of music, laughter, and good vibes at the Montreal Improv. Whether you're a talented soprano, or completely off-key, this event is open to everyone and absolutely free. That said, if you do feel like spending a few bucks, snacks and drinks can be purchased at the bar, and all proceeds go toward supporting the theatre.
Browse at a vintage market
When: Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: Église Saint-Denis – 5075, rue Rivard Street
Why You Need To Go: This Saturday, the Plateau Vintage Bazaar is setting up shop in Église Saint-Denis with 35 merchants. While admission is free, it may be hard to resist dropping some coins, as you discover collectibles, kitchen items, clothing, vinyl records, decorations, jewelry, toys and more. Bring your own bags!
Hike up Mount Royal before the weather turns cold
Why You Need To Go: The forecast is predicting a beautiful weekend in Montreal before temperatures drop, giving way to snow and lasting cold later this month. Take advantage of summer-like days while you still can by hiking up The Mountain. Between the exercise-induced endorphins and the stunning skyline views, you should be able to distract yourself from the fact that winter's on its way... if only for a few peaceful moments. If you'd prefer to get out of the city in favour of a more remote jaunt through the woods, we've got a list of ten easy hiking spots with breathtaking fall scenery linked down below.
Watch a bird-of-prey flight show
When: Sunday, October 6 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Where: Frédéric-Back Park – Near 2475, rue des Regrattiers (the exact location is available on Google Maps)
Why You Need To Go: This Sunday, shake up your regular routine by going to Frédéric-Back Park where you can watch a very special show. Falconers from Environnement Faucon will be on-site, offering you the chance to see falcons up close, as you learn more about these incredible winged hunters. Please note that during the activity, dogs and other pets are prohibited and it will not be possible to ride a bicycle nearby.
Nerd out at an anime trivia night
When: Friday, October 4 at 8 p.m.
Where: Café Eevee – 1251, rue Saint-Zotique E.
Why You Need To Go: Show off your anime knowledge at a trivia night hosted by Café Eevee, a quaint Italian coffee shop in the heart of La Petite-Patrie. Whether you're a seasoned otaku or just starting your anime journey, this event is the perfect way to honour your fandom through friendly competition, while sharing some laughs — and maybe a bite or beverage — among friends. Do you have what it takes to be crowned the ultimate anime trivia champion? There's only one way to find out.
Attend a free concert by the water
When: Sunday, October 6 at 3 p.m.
Where: Stewart Hall Cultural Centre – 176, ch. du Bord-du-Lac-Lakeshore, Pointe-Claire, QC
Why You Need To Go: How does a concert with breathtaking views of the lake sound for this weekend? On Sunday, The Montreal OFF Jazz Festival presents the Bellbird collective, who will perform an avant-garde and folk music show on the shores of Lake Saint-Louis. A unique performance awaits you, featuring modern jazz and inspired improvisations via two woodwinds, a bass and a drum kit.
L'OFF Jazz de Montréal Website
With files from Narcity Québec's Noémi Lincourt.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.