Christmas: the most magical time of the year, filled with toy-obsessed children, decorations covering every storefront, and a warm feeling that fills all. Montreal is a city that offers endless ways to celebrate this special time. In this article, I picked a few that stood out to me.
Montreal’s famous Christmas markets, Les Grand Marchés de Noël, bring in visitors from across the world. The first market is located in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles in Place des Arts. With its unique Bavarian-influenced style, it is home to over 50 local Quebecois vendors. Each vendor has a festively decorated house and plays music or provides samples of products to attract customers. From fresh food options to jewelry and various forms of art, there is truly something for everyone. The second market, located slightly outside of downtown at the Place du Marché Atwater, is home to over 90 activities for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy.
Thirsty? Well, you should check out the beloved La Taverne de Noël located on St. Laurent, which has a variety of Christmas-themed drinks and food options for patrons to try. From Le Grinch, Mont Rudolph, and other creative cocktails, there is no shortage of fun to be had. They not only go all-out on their drinks but their decorations as well, covering every corner of the storefront in Christmas tchotchkes or small decorative items.
Do you love to ice skate? I have just the thing for you: Montreal has two large ice rinks free of charge, as long as you bring your own skates. The first is located just a few blocks from Place des Arts, which is the largest outdoor ice rink in Montreal. The second is right on the water in Old Port. For more information, you can consult the Patin Patin website, but it’s a great idea for groups or taking someone on a fun date.
Looking for something to bring you back to your childhood? Visit the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs to explore a dazzling miniature Christmas village with shops, booths, a funfair, and festive characters. The church’s cozy atmosphere offers a magical experience, immersing you in the holiday spirit.
Sticking to the theme of churches, Montreal is home to countless beautiful places to connect with Christmas religiously or simply appreciate beautiful architecture. It would be a crime not to mention the Notre-Dame Basilica, standing out as a shining gem in Montreal’s crown. Its breathtaking stained glass windows and sheer architectural brilliance make it worth a stop during this holiday season. Similarly, Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde has breathtaking views with a twist of classic baroque architecture, modeled after the famous St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Need to satisfy your shopping cravings? Make sure to visit these three shopping areas during this holiday season. First, the newly opened Royalmount shopping mall has all the luxury goods one could want. Second, stroll down the cobblestone streets of Old Port to find some art or gifts for family or friends. Lastly, you can always thrift on Saint Laurent or Saint-Denis, finding one-of-a-kind pieces from La Caravane Vintage, Steal Strt, or Le Ninety.
Montreal is a city that gives you countless ways to embrace the holiday season, from fun markets to adventurous ice skating, shopping, and cozy culinary indulgences—there is truly something for everyone. Bundle up, bring a friend, and explore what Montreal has to offer this December.
