Fall is slowly taking over Montreal, and with it comes a reminder that some of summer's brightest attractions won't be around much longer. The air is cooler, the leaves are starting to change, and the flowers that coloured the city all season are beginning to fade.
One of the most striking spots to soak up what's left of it is in Parc Jean-Drapeau, where three enormous horticultural sculptures have been stopping visitors in their tracks since June. Installed for the 25th anniversary of Mosaïcultures Internationales de Montréal — the city's world-renowned horticultural art event — the pieces were chosen for permanent display, instantly turning the Jardins des Floralies into one of Montreal's most unique cultural landmarks.
The centrepiece is "Mother Earth," a 15-metre-high figure with cascading hair made entirely of flowers and plants. First shown in 2013, it earned international recognition before finding a permanent home on Île Sainte-Hélène.
Close by, "The Man Who Planted Trees" stretches high with his watering can.
Finally, "The Six Pairs of YY" adds a striking, abstract touch meant to symbolize harmony between people and nature.
"The Six Pairs of YY" are inspired by the logo for Expo 67.Parc Jean Drapeau
All summer long, the installations became one of the city's most photogenic attractions, drawing crowds for family outings, afternoon strolls, and plenty of Instagram shots. But here's the catch: while the sculptures themselves stay year-round, they're only in full bloom during the warmer months.
The best time to see them is between June and September, when the blooms are at their peak. As the season shifts, the plants begin to wind down, making each fall visit feel like a last glimpse before winter sets in.
And for those looking to catch something different before they're gone, September evenings bring a special twist: the sculptures are illuminated at dusk. The artistic lighting highlights unexpected details, casts the figures in new perspectives, and turns the gardens into an entirely new experience.
According to Parc Jean-Drapeau's calendar, the park is open to visitors until the end of October (or until weather permits). After that, the plants will go dormant for winter, making the next few weeks Montrealers' last chance in 2025 to see the sculptures at their most colourful.
Mosaïcultures
Price: Free
When: Until late October
Address: Jardins des Floralies, Parc Jean-Drapeau
Why You Need To Go: Looking for a free fall activity before the season slips away? A walk through the Jardins des Floralies gives you a heavy dose of nature and spectacle.
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