Winter in Montréal extends from mid-December until March and as the locals will tell you there is an abundance of activities to keep visitors busy in these months. Winter brings with it, breathtaking snow-capped scenery from mountain tops to the blanket of snow across the city and an abundance of icy adventures including skating, hockey and a plethora of winter festivals.

Luminothérapie

Montréal hosts ‘Luminothérapie’, Québec’s largest competition for temporary installations and this results in some amazing interactive displays located in Montréal’s Quartier des spectacles district. Last year’s display was a series of luminescent dominoes in varied sizes scattered throughout the city with the intention to be knocked down and set up creating new arrangements. The dominoes created a unique sound when knocked down and were different colours, so let your creative side out to play and see what artists have created this winter at Montréal’s Luminothérapie.

Igloofest

Every winter thousands of people flock to the quays of Old Port of Montréal to experience the iconic Igloofest. This has become an annual tradition since 2007. Igloofest attracts international and local electronic music artists to perform outside where people will wrap up warm to endure the cold weather and enjoy the music amongst the crowd each winter. Igloofest is billed as the coldest music festival in the world and something that you won’t find anywhere else.

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE 

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE, also referred to as Montréal’s festival of lights, is an annual celebration set during the darker winter months, with the aim to light up the city amidst the dark. The festival includes light installations in key downtown locations varying in size and brightness. Visitors can also experience Montréal’s best-attended single-day event, the Nuit blanche à Montréal, taking place over three districts that are linked by a shuttle service allowing visitors to take in the incredible live performances, music and exhibitions. The focal point of the festival not to be missed is located just outside of Montréal’s Place des Arts. This is perfect for the whole family and a free event to attend, be sure to try the gourmet food trucks and why not sample the maple treats when you’re there, the festival runs from February 17th – March 5th 2022.

Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau

Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau known for its prime location and decor is a five-story floating health spa on a boat anchored into the Old Port of Montréal. This innovative structure attracts guests year-round for its appealing health spa paired with the natural sway of the St Lawrence River. Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau offers guests sauna’s, steam baths, outdoor whirlpools, terraces and a garden overlooking the sights of Montréal from the water. This experience will provide you with both the warmth and rejuvenation you need on a frosty winter’s day in Montréal.

If you have been inspired to visit Montreal and discover some truly one of a kind experiences, click here to view a selection of our suggested itineraries.