4 must-see events for new and returning students
Sun Noor is a Co-op student working as a summer intern with the university's communications team. This article is a part of her blog project, The Return.
The summer in Montreal has been relatively stress-free compared to the spring. There's no more curfew and we can actually see people in real life! But the dearth of events in the city continues to leave a void unfilled — until more recently that is.
As we find ourselves heading into the fall, various event planners and collectives have managed to adapt their annual activities to be safe for all, prioritizing public health sanitary measures. For new students setting foot in Montreal for the first time, this is your chance to get a taste of the city’s vibrant art and festival scene!
Here are four things to check out in the coming weeks:
Photo by Isabella Mendes on Pexels
Piknik Electronik Montreal
Location: Plaine des Jeux
Dates: Now until October 10, 2021
The return of music festivals is definitely a sign that the earth is healing — and having Piknik Elektronik back is proof in the pudding. Established over 15 years ago, Piknik has become an outdoor electronic music institution in Montreal. Usually taking place every Sunday between July and early October the event hosts acts from the world over at Jean-Drapeau Park. This year because of travel restrictions, organizers prioritized keeping things more local, creating a Quebec-based lineup featuring DJs sets by Gene Tellem, CFCF, Blue Hawaii and many more!
Photo by MAPP MTL
MAPP_MTL Digital Block Party
Location: 5855 St-Laurent Blvd (Skatepark Mile End)
Dates: September 23 - September 25, 2021
For its 6th edition, MAPP_MTL, Montreal's projection mapping festival is transforming the Mile End Skatepark into a digital block party. The program includes the illumination of the iconic and majestic St-Lawrence warehouse by artist Dalkhafine in addition to the the presentation of 60-second creations on the facade of the equally iconic Million Carpets and Tiles store.
Photo by The Infinity Exhibition
The Infinity Exhibition- Inspired by NASA
Location: 2020 William St
Dates: Now until November 7th 2021
Arsenal Contemporary Museum’s Montreal location is known for their interactive exhibitions. The Inifinity Exhibition — a collaboration between Felix & Paul, TIME and PHI Studios — consists of an alluring and immersive experience that transforms you into space. This 60 minute VR experience is a journey that allows you to discover life in orbit, aboard the International Space Station. Whether you’re taking aerospace courses at Concordia or are just an everyday space nerd, this exhibition will only be here for a limited time so don’t miss out!
Photo from La Lucha Sigue (The Struggle Continues), Directed by: Sam Vinal
Cinema Politica
Location: Pavillion Henry F.Hall Bldg
Date and time : Various dates/times
Concordia’s Cinema Politica chapter has begun screening films again and will expand their complete schedule in the coming weeks. This Montreal-based media arts and non-profit is a community network that screens independent political films. The goal of the collective is to introduce art that, not only has the power to entertain, but to provoke social change as well. Igor Galuk’s short film “La Vendedora de Lirios” (The lilies seller) will be the first film shown.
With our options for entertainment expanding, do note that many non-essential activities now require vaccination in Quebec. To avoid missing out, consider booking an appointment on Clic Santé. Vaccination is free for everyone, regardless of your residency status.
Be sure to follow the health measures provided by each event and enjoy the festivities!
