12 free things to do in Montreal this week

Festival À l’Ouest de la Dame

When: July 12 to 14

Where: 17 rues commerciales dans Griffintown, la Petite-Bourgogne et Saint-Henri

Why You Need To Go: The Petite-Bourgogne neighborhood will host the new summer event À l’Ouest de la Dame. Organized by the Quartiers du Canal Business Development Society, this accessible and free event will take place on Notre-Dame Street West, between Atwater Avenue and Vinet Street. It will feature a wide range of activities, from jazz and food to sports and art, making it enjoyable for everyone. This experiential pedestrianization in the heart of the commercial area invites everyone to celebrate summer in style and enjoy the festive atmosphere rooted in the history of the Quartiers du Canal and particularly Petite-Bourgogne.

More about the Festival À l’Ouest de la Dame

Montreal Complètement CiRQUE

When: July 4 to 14

Where: Various venues in Montreal

Why You Need To Go: “Circus doesn’t know impossible” is the tagline for this 15th edition of MONTRÉAL COMPLÈTEMENT CiRQUE — and you can expect the festival to prove its theme true through 11 days of stunning circus arts. Indoors and outdoors, digital and in-person, at venues, on the streets, in parks, on sidewalks and on stages, the circus will take over the city with “high-flying performances from here and around the world.”

Montreal Complètement Cirque website

Zen out with yoga for beginners

A group pf three people with their hands together in yoga poses.

Courtesy of Yoga by Isha

When: Saturday, July 13 at 1 p.m.

Where: Hôtel de L’ITHQ — 401, rue de Rigaud (room Saint Louis on the sixth floor)

Why You Need To Go: Guests will be able to explore these seven simple practices: directional movement of the arms, neck practices, yoga namaskar, nadi shuddhi, nada yoga, shambhavimMudra, and the namaskar process — are designed to help you move through life with ease. They offer benefits such as prevention and management of chronic ailments (asthma, diabetes, hypertension, obesity), improved sleep quality, increased alertness, and enhanced productivity, concentration, and memory. Suitable for ages seven and up (accompanied by a parent/guardian).

More about the free yoga session in Montreal

Trivia night in Montreal

A poster for an upcoming trivia night in Montreal featuring details of the events and graphics in red and white.

Courtesy of Quiz Master Brian

When: Thursday, July 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Wheel Club — 3373, boul. Cavendish

Why You Need To Go: Montreal’s Quiz Master Brian will be hosting their recurring Thursday trivia night extravaganza where you’ll be able to test your knowledge on a variety of topics. You’ll be able to play in teams of two to six. However, only people who get their tickets together will be seated together. The event does not allow single participants or single reservations. The event will be hosted in French and English.

More about the free trivia night in Montreal

Festival international Nuits d’Afrique

When: July 9 to 21

Where: Various venues in Montreal

Why You Need To Go: More than 700 artists from 30 countries are expected to come together this year to bring Montreal its cherished African nights, spent grooving to the rhythms of African, Caribbean and Latin American music. The unforgettable cultural festival, now in its 38th year, won’t unveil its schedule until May 28. But last year, it included six days of free outdoor programming and this year’s event should be similar.

Festival international Nuits d’Afrique website

Free stand up comedy show

When: Monday, July 8 at 9 p.m.

Where: Bar Au P’tit Buck — 2480, rue Jean-Talon E.

Why You Need To Go: This light-hearted comedy evening offers a unique show open to all performers, featuring both established Quebec stand-up stars testing new jokes and amateurs taking the stage for the first time. The Vrai Open Mic Saint-Michel is located at P’tit Buck, a recently renovated neighbourhood tavern situated across from the Iberville metro station on the blue line, with nearby street parking available. The show is free entry, with doors opening at 7 p.m., sign-ups beginning at 7:30 p.m., and the show will begin at 8 p.m. The event is exclusive to those 18 years and older. Ages 18+. Please note that even if it is marked as sold out online, there is space available on Wednesday night.

More about the free comedy show in Montreal

Free outdoor salsa lessons

A group of people dancing salsa outdoors in Montreal.

Courtesy of Canadian Salsa Dance Corp.

When: Thursday, July 11 at 6 p.m.

Where: Cabot Square

Why You Need To Go: Guests are invited to dance to the rhythms of the Adan de Dios band, featuring salsa, bachata, and much more. This outdoor event requires running shoes and a water bottle. Everyone is welcome! RSVP here and let’s dance all summer long!

More about the free outdoor salsa lessons

Festival RU

When: July 11 to 21

Where: Parc des Compagnons de Saint-Laurent (at Mont-Royal and Cartier)

Why You Need To Go: RU Festival will return to Mont-Royal Avenue in its pre-pandemic format. The event will take place from Thursday to Sunday over two weekends at Parc des Compagnons de Saint-Laurent (at Mont-Royal and Cartier). It aims to offer a diverse and high-quality program of music, visual arts, theater, slam poetry, and dance, featuring both established and emerging artists. The festival will also provide participatory creative activities for the public, with over 35 performances scheduled this year.

More about Festival RU

Participate in a guided tour of Quartier des Spectacles

When: Thursday, July 11 at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Place des Festivals

Why You Need To Go: This guided tour takes participants on a journey through time, exploring picturesque streets, historic buildings, and cultural and academic Francophone institutions. From the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) to Espace St-Denis, and from Le Bordel Comédie Club to the Jeanne-Mance Habitations, guests will uncover the well-kept secrets and fascinating stories of the Latin Quarter. From its origins as an intellectual hub of French America to its evolution into a vibrant student and artistic district, Justin Bur leads this exploration for the Quartier des Spectacles partnership.

More about the free walking tour in Montreal

Join a running club downtown Montreal

When: Wednesday, July 10 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Where: Montreal Eaton Centre — 705 rue Sainte-Catherine O.

Why You Need To Go: Get ready to lace up your running shoes and join in on a fun 5-kilometre run in downtown Montreal. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a casual jog, this event is perfect for all levels. You’ll be able to connect with other running enthusiasts for an evening of fitness, community, and socializing. The meeting point will be at the Lululemon at Montreal’s Eaton Centre.

More about the free running club in Montreal

Taste of the Caribbean Festival

When: July 11 to 14

Where: Old Port of Montreal

Why You Need To Go: Montrealers will be able to experience four days’ worth of flavours, sights, and sounds that invite visitors to immerse themselves in the warm, enigmatic, and inviting embrace of the Caribbean nations. You will be able to enjoy live musical performances from homegrown talent, including Grammy and Juno Award-winning artists, along with cooking and mixology demos from local Caribbean restaurants and guest chefs.

Taste of the Caribbean Festival

Catch a stunning summer sunset

When: All summer

Where: Various parks across Montreal

Why You Need To Go: Montreal is home to magical spots where golden hour hits a little different. For those on the hunt for the ultimate place to catch the sunset on the Island you should definitely check out Beaver Lake, Parc Rene-Levesque, Parc Jean-Drapeau, and so much more.

More about where to catch a Montreal sunset