Montreal is home to non-stop festivals and this year is certainly no exception. Known as the world capital of festivals, Montreal is gearing up for an exciting year with tons of food fests, music events and things to do in and around Montreal that are bound to make your 2024 a memorable one.
Whether you're in the mood to critique a new film, taste your way through the city or simply get lost in a trance at Montreal's many musical moments, there's a little bit of everything for everyone.
Despite the loss of Montreal's Just For Laughs festival, the city is still going to be booming with events left and right. We've compiled the ultimate guide to Montreal festivals in 2024 with events running through March to November, this way you can enjoy the fun without having to do any of the work.
So, which Montreal festivals will you be attending?
Blue Metropolis International Literary Festival
Dates: April 25 to 28
Where: Virtual and at various Montreal libraries
Why You Need To Go: Montreal will be the vibrant hub where more than 150 guests from diverse backgrounds converge for this year's central theme: Dreams & Utopias. Over 120 events will unfold, offering a rich tapestry of literary exploration. With more than 10 languages echoing through the venues, attendees are encouraged to immerse themselves in discussions, share perspectives, and delve into the world of dreams and possibilities.
Japan Week
When: May 6 to 12 (Japan week), and June 13 to 16 (Yatai MTL)
Where: Hangar 1825, Montreal QC (Yatai MTL), and participating businesses and restaurants in Montreal (Japan Week)
Why You Need To Go: Japan Week showcases the finest offerings of your city in conjunction with Japan and Japanese culture. With Japan Week, you have the perfect chance to captivate a fresh audience, introducing them to the cultural richness and diverse experiences Japan and your city have to offer. Unlike the outdoor setting of YATAI MTL at Bassin Peel, Japan Week unfolds within participating businesses, providing a different avenue for exploration and enjoyment
Pouzza Fest 2024
Dates: May 17 to 19
Where: Various venues across Downtown Montreal (all within walking distance of one another)
Why You Need To Go: Downtown Montreal will be buzzing with the energetic vibes of Pouzza Fest, a renowned punk rock music festival. With over 150 bands slated to perform across various venues, all conveniently located within walking distance of each other, attendees are in for an unforgettable experience.
The festival's unique name, Pouzza, is a playful fusion of two beloved culinary delights: poutine and pizza, perfectly encapsulating its dynamic and eclectic spirit. Headliners at this year's festival include Wavves, Strike Anywhere, Laura Jane Grace, Alex Lahey and Against All Authority, to name a few.
Piknic Électronik Montreal
Dates: May 19 to October 6
Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: With its scenic outdoor venue at Parc Jean-Drapeau, attendees can enjoy a unique combination of music, art, and community vibes against the backdrop of the city skyline. Whether you're a seasoned raver or a newcomer to the electronic scene, Piknic Électronik offers an unforgettable experience blending music, culture, and the great outdoors. Headlining events include Solomun in May, All Day I Dream in June and Diplo and Anjunadeep in July.
Festival Eurêka!
Dates: May 24 to 26
Where: The Biosphere — 160 chem. du Tour de l'isle, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: The Eurêka! Festival, Quebec's largest science celebration, invites you to immerse yourself in three days of scientific discovery. With over 100 free outdoor activities, including 25 interactive lectures and shows, 50+ hands-on workshops and experiments, and captivating street performances, it's an event tailored for the whole family to enjoy. Experience the thrill of science firsthand through engaging demonstrations and exciting feats, making it an unmissable experience for science enthusiasts of all ages.
Fuego Fuego Festival
Dates: May 25 to 26
Where: Olympic Stadium – 4545 Ave. Pierre-de Coubertin, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: With its pulsating rhythms, electrifying performances, and festive atmosphere, Fuego Fuego promises an exhilarating experience that immerses attendees in the vibrant sounds and spirit of Latin America. This year, Montrealers and visitors alike will have the chance to get down to Maluma and Rauw Alejandro, who are headlining the 2024 festival.
Festival TransAmériques (FTA)
Dates: May 22 to June 5
Where: Various venues across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: The Festival TransAmériques in Montreal is an exciting showcase of contemporary dance and theatre, heralding the arrival of spring in late May. With around 25 shows presented over two weeks, the FTA transforms both performance venues and outdoor spaces across the city. Spanning approximately 20 venues, from downtown hubs like Place des Arts to neighbourhood theatres such as Usine C and Espace Libre, the festival hosts acclaimed artists from both local and international scenes, including Marie Brassard, Romeo Castellucci, and many more.
Go Bike Montreal
Dates: May 26 to June 2
Where: Cycling paths and courses across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: The Go Bike Montreal Festival is the ultimate yearly tribute to Montreal's bustling cycling scene. Bikers and/or bike lovers can immerse themselves in the city's cycling culture through the Metropolitan Challenge, delve into various facets of biking at the Go Bike Conference, join the lively evening festivities at Tour la nuit, and pedal through the heart of Montreal during the Tour de l’Île de Montréal.
Montreal Fringe Festival
When: May 27 to June 16, 2024
Where: Various theatres across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: The Montreal Fringe Festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a diverse array of local theatre productions, all at affordable prices. With the cancellation of the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival this summer, the desire for live performances has never been stronger. The Fringe Festival fills this void, providing a platform for Montreal artists to showcase their talents and creativity.
L'International des Feux Loto-Québec
Dates: June to August
Where: La Ronde / Parc Jean-Drapeauy — 22 chem. Macdonald, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: This summer, Montreal's sky will dazzle once more with breathtaking fireworks as the International des Feux Loto-Quebec returns for its 38th edition at Parc La Ronde. Watch as some of the world's top pyrotechnic artists compete in a vibrant and colourful show from June to August.
Francos de Montreal
Dates: June 14 to 22
Where: Various venues across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Experience the pinnacle of Francophone music at Les Francos de Montréal, the largest festival dedicated to this musical genre. Serving as the city's summer kickoff, Les Francos, which is celebrating its 35th edition, showcases a dynamic mix of hip-hop, rock, pop, folk, electro, and slam. With over 200 indoor and outdoor shows, including nearly 150 free performances, it's a must-attend event.
Francos de Montreal website
Formula 1 Grand Prix
Dates: June 7 to 9
Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau — Circuit Gilles Villeneuve
Why You Need To Go: The Formula 1 Grand Prix in Montreal, held at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, is renowned for its intense racing and memorable moments. Drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel, and Max Verstappen have all showcased their skills on this iconic track, adding to the excitement of the event for fans worldwide. Outside the races, the city comes alive with glamorous parties, celebrity sightings, and showcases of stunning cars, making it a must-attend event on and off the track for motorsport enthusiasts.
MURAL Festival
Dates: June 6 to 16
Where: Murals across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: The Mural Festival in Montreal, an annual celebration of urban art, transforms the cityscape into a vibrant canvas. Renowned artists from around the world converge to unleash their creativity, adorning walls with breathtaking murals that reflect diverse cultures, ideas, and perspectives. Explore the surreal universe crafted by artist Chloé Biocca, the visionary behind the captivating visual identity of the 12th edition of the Mural Festival.
Festival MTL en Arts
Dates: June 27 to July 1
Where: Various venues across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Festival MTL en Arts brings together around 100 artists for an electric celebration of creativity. Attendees can engage in tens of participatory activities, from collaborative murals to workshops. And for those unable to attend in person, there's a virtual gallery featuring artists' work available for purchase.
Montreal International Jazz Festival
Dates: June 27 to July 6
Where: Various music venues and stages across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Montreal's International Jazz Festival's 44th edition promises an exhilarating fusion of music, culture, and energy. Renowned artists from around the globe will converge to perform across various venues, offering an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, funk, and beyond. The 2024 lineup has not yet been released.
Festival d'été de Québec
Dates: July 4 to July 14
Where: Quebec City, QC
Why You Need To Go: The iconic Festival d'été de Québec is returning this summer and Montrealers can venture over to Quebec City to enjoy performances from top industry names including Carly Rae Jensen, Nickelback, 50 Cent, Jonas Brothers, Loud Luxury, and Alan Walker, to name a few.
Comiccon Montreal
Dates: July 5 to 7
Where: Palais des Congrès — 1001 Pl. Jean-Paul-Riopelle, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: This summer, Montreal Comiccon promises an epic lineup for its 14th edition, celebrating pop culture milestones at Montreal's Palais des Congrès. Fans will meet childhood icons like Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel in The Little Mermaid, who'll share exclusive tales. Star Wars devotees can master lightsaber techniques with Ray Park, Darth Maul himself, in a special Saber Action Master Class. Tickets for this experience go on sale next month.
Festival International Nuits d'Afrique
Dates: July 9 to 21
Where: Various venues across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Montrealers can anticipate another twelve days of unforgettable performances, diverse programming, and immersive cultural experiences from July 9 to 21, 2024. Building upon the resounding success of previous editions, expect an even more expansive Village des Nuits d’Afrique, bustling with record attendance at concerts, and activities, the Marché Tombouctou, and the Promenade des Saveurs. The official program of paid and free activities has not been released yet.
Fantasia International Film Festival
Dates: July 18 to August 4
Where: Various cinemas across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Montrealers will be able to experience the electrifying fusion of genres and cultures at the Fantasia International Film Festival's 28th edition. Festivalgoers can expect exhilarating premieres, thought-provoking discussions, and unforgettable experiences that push the boundaries of imagination and filmmaking.
Montreal Pride
Dates: August 1 to 11
Where: Various venues across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Despite a rocky situation back in 2022, Montreal Pride is back and better than ever. From cultural events to lively parties, culminating in a spirited parade through the city streets, attendees can expect a joyous atmosphere filled with music, colourful floats, and a strong sense of unity and acceptance. The full program is set to drop "very soon," per Fierté Montreal.
Osheaga
Dates: August 2 to 4
Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Osheaga is returning with a star-studded line-up this year. The esteemed music event, which takes place at Parc Jean-Drapeau, is set to welcome big names such as SZA, Green Day, Noah Kahan, and so much more. The event will include tons of activities on-site thanks to the festival's sponsors such as Bacardi, Monster and Bell Media, to name a few. Single-day and weekend tickets are currently on sale.
Otakuthon
When: August 2 to 4
Where: Palais des Congrès — 1001, pl. Jean-Paul-Riopelle
Why You Need To Go: Otakuthon, the sibling event of Montreal Comiccon, gathers global anime enthusiasts and artists for a three-day celebration. It showcases J-Rock bands, video game orchestras, V-Tubers, animation directors, voice actors, artists, and indie game developers, and hosts the Canadian World Cosplay Summit qualifiers, with winners advancing to Japan's renowned cosplay event.
Otakuthon website
ItalfestMTL
Dates: August 2 to 11
Where: Little Italy — boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: For more than three decades, ItalfestMTL has joyfully celebrated Italy's beauty and cultural wealth within the heart of Montreal. Throughout August, festival enthusiasts unite amidst a vibrant atmosphere, enjoying a diverse array of free activities and events across the city's districts.
International First Peoples Festival
Dates: August 6 to 15
Where: Quartiers des Spectacles, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: An exciting multidisciplinary program offers a wide array of activities, ranging from major concerts, international film competitions, exhibitions, traditional dancing, live performances, seminars and meetings that dive into the culture and history of Indigenous communities in Canada.
Pocha MTL
Dates: August 8 to 11
Where: Hangar 1825 — Old Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Pocha MTL is a popular Korean street market that draws over 20,000 people for 4 days. It features street food, vendors selling products, and Korean beverages, as well as cultural performances and workshops.
îLESONIQ
Dates: August 9 to 11
Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: îLESONIQ showcases an electrifying lineup of top-tier electronic music artists, including headliners like Tïesto, DJ Snake, Idris Elba and Zedd. The music festival provides an immersive experience with cutting-edge stage production, mesmerizing visuals, and a vibrant atmosphere, creating unforgettable memories for attendees
LASSO Montreal
Dates: August 16 to 17
Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Country music lovers rejoice because LASSO Montreal is back and better than ever. The country music festival stands as one of the biggest in Canada, and ticket holders this year will be able to enjoy live performances from Sam Hunt, Eric Church, Brett Young and Dustin Lynch, to name a few.
Festival International de Montgolfières
When: August 9 to 11, and August 15 to 18
Where: 5, ch. de l'Aéroport, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC
Why You Need To Go: A balloon extravaganza will grace the skies of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu this month. Amidst this aerial delight, you'll be serenaded by none other than Canadian icon Avril Lavigne, among many other musical acts, who will grace the main stage with their performances. Alongside this musical treat, you can engage in various entertaining activities such as oversized chess, spirited ping-pong, and dynamic spike ball, all while embracing the essence of classic beach pastimes.
MUTEK
Dates: August 20 to 25
Where: Quartiers des Spectacles, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Montrealers can revel in up to 80 unseen performances markings this 25th festival edition. The event is a haven for those who simply love to throw themselves into an electronic tune and completely get lost among the digital arts.
M.A.D. Festival
Dates: August 22 to 25
Where: Quartiers des Spectacles, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Per M.A.D. Fest, attendees will be able to immerse themselves in the worlds of Quebec artists who will be showcasing their transcendent dance performances. Furthermore, guests will also be able to discover the world of fashion via tens of designers who will be revealing their collections.
Psicobloc
Dates: August 30 to September 1
Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau
Why You Need To Go: Psicobloc offers a thrilling test of climbers' speed, agility, and endurance as they scale a daunting 20-meter (65-foot) inverted wall without ropes or gear, ending with a daring plunge into the Aquatic Complex's pool. With $20,000 in prizes, attendees can enjoy music, exhibitors, and activities for all ages.
Jackalope
Dates: September 13 to 15
Where: Parc Olympique
Why You Need To Go: Jackalope is the ultimate gathering of Canada's action sports communities that brings together top athletes and professionals in the skateboarding world as well as enthusiasts and curious.
MAPP Festival
Dates: September 25 to 28
Where: Skatepark Van Horne and other various locations across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: MAPP_MTL, a non-profit organization, fuels the evolution of projection mapping and showcases local and international talent. From September 25 to 28, 2024, Montreal's renowned international projection mapping festival returns for its 9th edition. Experience mesmerizing mapping projections, dynamic music performances, tasty food, local vendors, and interactive workshops, all in a vibrant neighbourhood atmosphere!
MAPP Festival website
POP Montreal International Music Festival
Dates: September 25 to 29
Where: POP Quarters — Le Clubhouse Rialto, 5719, Ave. Parc, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: The POP Montreal festival is now entering its 23rd year of operation and will be offering stellar performances by more than 400 artists throughout the five-day festival. To get the full experience, guests can purchase the Discovery Pass, which is the best way to experience the festival and gives you priority access to over 200 bands, films, visual arts, crafts, conferences, workshops, BBQs and much more.
M Pour Montreal 2024
Dates: November 20 to 23
Where: Various venues across Montreal
Why You Need To Go: M Pour Montreal is a crucial catalyst for the Quebec and Canadian music industries, supporting both emerging and established artists. Established in 2006 by Sébastien Nasra of Avalanche Productions, with support from Martin Elbourne, the event hosts conferences uniting local and international music professionals. Its annual November gathering in Montreal showcases over a hundred artists, including notable acts like Mac DeMarco, Grimes, and Patrick Watson.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
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