HOLIDAY EDITION: The top 5 things to do in Montreal this December
1. Snuggle up at the Nordic Square
Nordic Square | Merry Montreal | Jacques-Cartier Square | December 21-24 and 28-31, Thursday – Friday: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturday – Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The city’s famous Jacques-Cartier Square will become Merry Montreal’s Nordic Square as it suits up for winter this holiday season.
Enjoy free musical performances, cozy resting zones and local food trucks while checking out the area’s interactive installations, which promise much in the way of razzle dazzle.
2. Get festive in the park
Christmas in the Park | Place Émilie-Gamelin, Parc Lahaie and Parc des Compagnons-de-St-Laurent | December 1 to 25
Since its beginnings 25 years ago, Christmas in the Park has transported visitors to the days of yore with its warm, yuletide atmosphere. The free outdoor festival runs throughout the month at three locations around the city and offers a diverse array of free music, activities and more.
Events take place at Place Émilie-Gamelin (Quartier des Spectacles), Parc Lahaie and Parc des Compagnons-de-St-Laurent (both in Plateau-Mont-Royal).
3. Enjoy some musical musings
La Magie de la Musique | Grande place du Complexe Desjardins | December 9, 3:30 p.m.; December 19, 4 p.m.; December 22, 3 p.m.
Treat your ears to a classical feast as numerous regional orchestras take turns putting on free musical performances at the Complexe Desjardins throughout the month. From the Montreal Jazz Ensemble to the Coopérative des professeurs de musique de Montréal cello ensemble, enjoy the musical magic of the season.
4. Visit the Christmas Village
Christmas Village | Atwater Market | December 14, 15, 16, and 21, 22, 23, starting 11:30 a.m. or 4 p.m.
This month, the famed Atwater Market will transform itself into a wintery village, replete with food and cheer.
Don’t miss your chance to enjoy a variety of free activities and attractions, including a screening of the holiday classic Elf and live musical performances.
5. Fire and ice ignite!
Natrel Fire on Ice | Société du Vieux-Port de Montreal | Montreal Old Port | December 15, 22 and 29, 8 p.m.
Heat things up this winter with a dazzling evening of pyrotechnics. Natrel Fire on Ice promises to light up the night skies above the Old Port, all set to a soundtrack featuring renowned female vocalists.
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