For those looking to stay clear of the Grand Prix chaos, we've also got you covered with many events, activities and festivals to take advantage of this weekend.
Here are 13 free things to do in Montreal this weekend:
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.
Stroll through rue Crescent
When: June 6 to 9
Where: rue Crescent (downtown Montreal — closest metro is Peel)
Why You Need To Go: Spanning several blocks in Montreal (Bishop to de la Montagne), Grand Prix Crescent will have tons of kiosks, race car displays, live DJs, pit stop challenges and so much more, all day every day during the F1 festivities.
Améa Cafe CINQ@SEPT
When: June 5 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Améa Cafe — 1188, rue Sherbrooke O.
Why You Need To Go: Améa is kicking off F1 with an exclusive 5 à 7 at the iconic Maison Alcan. You can enjoy the night with live music from DJ Laura Scavo, as well. The theme for the night is ‘Mirage’ and guests are encouraged to wear boho-chic attire.
Festival Heineken
A poster for the upcoming Heineken festival in Montreal's Old Port for the Grand Prix.
When: June 7 to 9 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Grand Quay of the Port of Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Guests can take part in the free Heineken Festival all weekend long. The Grand Quay will be transformed into a fan zone with high-tech racing simulators, selfie stations, and a giant screen with live coverage of the Grand Prix’s practice sessions and main race.
Jam out to free musical performances
When: June 7 to 8
Where: Square Victoria and Square Philips
Why You Need To Go: Enjoy up to 60 free concerts throughout the summer season, including free shows during the Grand Prix weekend. Get ready to dance with Coco Rose as they bring their funk, soul, and pop music to the crowd on June 7, at 12 p.m. (Square Victoria) and 5:30 p.m. (Square Phillips). On June 8, pop-choc singer Georgette will charm visitors with her flamboyant lyrics, performing at 12 p.m. (Square Victoria) and 5:30 p.m. (Square Phillips).
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.
Hike the Mont-Royal summit
Three people with hiking gear walking up a mountain.
Courtesy of L'Hirondelle, accueil et intégration d'immigrants
When: June 8 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Maison Smith — 1260, Remembrance Rd.
Why You Need To Go: In collaboration with Les Amis de la Montagne, guests can embark on an exploration of Mont-Royal’s unique wildlife and landscapes. An expert guide will reveal hidden treasures of this Montreal gem over a two-hour journey. You'll be able to reconnect with nature and its history by registering for the hike.
Get zen with a free yoga class
​A poster for an upcoming free yoga class in Montreal featuring three people in various yoga poses.Â
Courtesy of Isha Foundation
When: June 8 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Hôtel de L'ITHQ — 401, rue de Rigaud (room Saint Louis on the sixth floor)
Why You Need To Go: Guests will be able to explore these seven simple practices: directional movement of the arms, neck practices, yoga namaskar, nadi shuddhi, nada yoga, shambhavimMudra, and the namaskar process — are designed to help you move through life with ease. They offer benefits such as prevention and management of chronic ailments (asthma, diabetes, hypertension, obesity), improved sleep quality, increased alertness, and enhanced productivity, concentration, and memory. Suitable for ages seven and up (accompanied by a parent/guardian).
Enjoy a guided tour of Quartiers des Spectacles
A group of people walking around Downtown Montreal.
Courtesy of Quartiers des Spectacles
When: June 8 at 4 p.m.
Where: Place des Festivals — 1499, rue Jeanne-Mance
Why You Need to Go: This guided tour takes participants on a journey through time, exploring picturesque streets, historic buildings, and cultural and academic Francophone institutions. From the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) to Espace St-Denis, and from Le Bordel Comédie Club to the Jeanne-Mance Habitations, guests will uncover the well-kept secrets and fascinating stories of the Latin Quarter. From its origins as an intellectual hub of French America to its evolution into a vibrant student and artistic district, Justin Bur leads this exploration for the Quartier des Spectacles partnership.
Laugh it up at a free comedy show
People sitting and laughing in a Montreal park while watching a stand-up comedy show.
Courtesy of Comedy Gang
When: Saturday, June 8 at 7:45 p.m.
Where: Girouard Park — 3500, av. Girouard
Why You Need To Go: For the past three years, this event has been a beloved summer tradition, offering top-notch comedy amidst the park's scenic beauty. Now in its fourth year, the Comedy Gang promises exciting surprises for N.D.G. residents and visitors. This free show, supported by donations, guarantees a fun-filled community gathering. Bring your blankets, drinks, and chairs for a cozy night of entertainment in the outfield of the baseball diamond at the corner of av. Girouard and chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Antoine.
Browse through a community clothing swap
A poster for an upcoming community garage sale.
Courtesy of Greene Centre
When: June 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: 1090, av. Greene
Why You Need To Go: You can browse through tables of clothing, home accessories, and tons of other goodies up for sale at the community garage sale in Westmount. There will also be a kid's activity corner, light refreshments for purchase, and some surprises throughout the day. For those who wish to sell rather than buy, you can purchase a table for $25.
Eaton Centre Pit Stop
When: June 5 to 9
Where: 755, rue Sainte-Catherine O. (street level in front of the Sephora store)
Why You Need To Go: Guests can enjoy race simulators, participate in the Pit stop challenge, grab pics at the B2 photo booth and play ping pong and other sports at the Decathlon Zone all weekend long.
Montreal Eaton Centre website
Enjoy weekend activities at Jean-Talon Market
When: June 6 until October 20
Where: Marché Jean-Talon — 7070, av. Henri Julien
Why You Need To Go: Place-du-Marché-Nord transforms into a pedestrian haven every Thursday through Sunday, including holidays, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy free educational activities for all ages, with new street furniture creating cozy spaces for relaxation. The event zone, northwest of the market, hosts thrilling programs every Saturday and Sunday, featuring roving performances, cooking workshops, and gardening sessions.
Adopt a small animal for free
When: June 5 to 9 (12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends)
Where: Montreal SPCA — 5215, rue Jean-Talon O.
Why You Need To Go: The Montreal SPCA is hosting a week of reduced adoption fees for dogs and cats ($50) and free adoption for rabbits, exotic animals, and small animals. So, if you've been looking to expand the fam with a new friend, and have the room in your home and heart for an animal, adopt away!
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
