Following a stormy and hectic F1 weekend, Montrealers can look forward to sunnier (and cheaper) days ahead.
For those looking for things to do in Montreal this week, you can give your wallet a break thanks to countless free festivals, events and activities taking place across Montreal.
This week is fully loaded with free events including salsa lessons at Jardins Gamelin, a free belly dancing course at Studio 303, and a free running club in downtown Montreal, all the way to a trivia game night, open mic performances, and a car and bike showcase in the East End — meaning there's a little bit of everything for everyone.
Here are 12 free things to do in Montreal this week (June 10 to 14):
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, several complimentary activities, including performances, awaits in the Saint-Laurent Zone. Accessibility is ensured throughout the festival grounds for individuals with reduced mobility.
Jardins Gamelin
When: May 30 to September 15
Where: Jardins Gamelin — on rue Berri and Saint-Catherine E.
Why You Need To Go: Starting May 30, the Jardins Gamelin welcomes you to a summer of rich and free programming that will be offered throughout the entire summer season and will remain open seven days a week. From free salsa lessons to concerts and shows, guests will be able to enjoy some Montreal action all summer long.
Learn something new at TouchIn MTL
When: Thursday, June 13 from 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Where: NAD - École des arts numériques, de l’animation et du design — 1501, rue de Bleury (7th floor)
Why You Need To Go: Guests can join the TouchDesigner gathering where enthusiasts will share projects, passions, and insights during community presentations. The evening will feature updates from Derivative's Greg Hermanovic and Isabelle Rousset, digital artists Hugues Caillères, Owen Kirby, and Louis-Philippe Rondeau from École NAD-UQAC. Hosted by Guillaume Bourassa and Jean-François Renaud, the event will provide ample time for socializing before and after the talks, with beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages available. Doors open at 6 p.m., and presentations run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by social time.
Attend a film screening
When: Wednesday, June 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Le Frigo Vert — 1440, rue Mackay
Why You Need To Go: In light of recent student protests in Montreal for accessible education and divestment, Midnight Kitchen is screening Payal Kapadia's film 'A Night of Knowing Nothing.' The film chronicles student movements against the corporatization of the university and religious and caste-based discrimination under India's right-wing government through the letters of L, a university student. Combining archival footage, videos, and fiction, Kapadia tells a powerful story of discrimination, mass struggle, and political violence. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the film starts at 6 p.m. sharp, running for approximately 90 minutes. Refreshments will be available. Please note the film contains images of police violence.
Learn how to belly dance
When: Friday, June 14 at 7 p.m.
Where: Studio 303 — 372, rue Saint-Catherine O.
Why You Need To Go: Guests are invited to an energetic belly dancing class with the talented Wel3a at Studio 303. Emerging from the underground LGBTQIA+ community of Egypt, Wel3a has dedicated his life to belly dancing, sharing its beauty and joy from Egypt to Canada. For him, dance is a tool for self-discovery and emotional expression. In his workshops, Wel3a aims to create a space for others to experience the enlightening power of belly dance. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, this class welcomes dancers of all levels to embrace the art of belly dancing.
Join a weekly running club
When: Wednesday, June 12 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Montreal Eaton Centre — 705, rue Sainte-Catherine
Why You Need To Go: Get ready to lace up your running shoes and join in on a fun 5-kilometre run in downtown Montreal. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a casual jog, this event is perfect for all levels. You'll be able to connect with other running enthusiasts for an evening of fitness, community, and socializing. The meeting point will be at the Lululemon at Montreal's Eaton Centre. The Montreal Eaton Centre is wheelchair accessible. Lululemon is located on street level.
Participate in a free quiz night
A poster for an upcoming trivia night in Montreal.
Courtesy of Quiz Master Brian
When: Thursday, June 13 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Wheel Club — 3373, boul. Cavendish
Why You Need To Go: Montreal's Quiz Master Brian will be hosting their recurring Thursday trivia night extravaganza where you'll be able to test your knowledge on a variety of topics. You'll be able to play in teams of two to six. However, only people who get their tickets together will be seated together. The event does not allow single participants or single reservations. The event will be hosted in French and English.
Attend an open mic night
When: Every Wednesday and Friday at 8 p.m.
Where: Plateau Bistro — 901, rue Sherbrooke E.
Why You Need To Go: Guests can dive into those good hump day and 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.
Take part in a language exchange
When: Tuesday, June 11 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Birra Bar — 7129, boul. Saint-Laurent
Why You Need To Go: If you've been looking to make friends in Montreal, you can attend this weekly event at Birra Bar where you'll be able to hang out with other international residents, make connections and meet people with similar interests. While entry is free, you must purchase a beverage from the bar to participate fully.
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.
Weekly bike and car showcases
When: Wednesday, June 12 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Mr. Puffs — 12902, Sherbrooke E.
Why You Need To Go: Car and bike aficionados need to make their calendars, 'cause Mr. Puff in Pointe-aux-Trembles is officially bringing back its bike and car night every single Wednesday. Not only can you dive into some of your favourite Puff flavours but you'll be able to get up close and personal with vintage cars and stunning motorcycles.
Catch a gorgeous sunset
When: Year-round
Where: Various parks and lookouts across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: As the summer season fast approaches, you just might want to catch a gorgeous sunset and we've got you covered with a handful of Montreal spots to do so. For those looking for the ultimate golden hour moment, you can opt for sights at Parc René-Levesque, Beaver Lake, the Hiatus restaurant and the Mont-Royal lookout, to name a few.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
