Easter fun for everyone in Montréal
Gastronomy Spring Festivals and events Leisure activities, nature and relaxation Patrimony and Architecture
There’s no better time than Easter weekend, from Friday, April 18 to Monday, April 21, to rediscover Montréal! Stroll along in the spring sunshine, savour a delicious meal, unwind at a spa or take in some culture: whether you’re with family, a partner or flying solo, Montréal awaits!
Urban escapade and the sugar shack
Once the warm weather chases away the winter chill, the city shines in a brand-new light. Experience Montréal like never before with a guided walking, biking, or scooter tour. Hop aboard La Grande Roue, the tallest observation wheel in Canada, or test your bravery as you soar 1,200 feet above the Old Port with the MTL Zipline.
Sacred moments
Holy Week is the perfect time to explore Montréal's rich religious heritage. Wander through Old Montréal to take in the majestic Notre-Dame Basilica, a true city icon. Complete your visit with AURA, a magical and immersive experience that transforms the basilica with stunning light projections accompanied by the enchanting music of the grand 7,000-pipe Casavant organ.
At Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, attend the masses and special events that mark Holy Week, including the grand Easter Sunday celebration (tickets available for purchase onsite). If you're unable to attend in person or prefer to stay at home, mass is also streamed online.
Gourmet pleasures
Dig into Montreal’s culinary scene this Easter weekend! Whether you’re craving classic brunches or innovative menus, the city’s neighborhoods are brimming with mouthwatering options. Indulge in the finest dining experiences at some of the city’s top restaurants or explore the tempting offerings in the heart of downtown. For a quick and delicious bite between adventures, check out these top lunch spots.
Got a craving for maple? On April 20, Maggie Oakes restaurant invites you to partake in an exceptional sweet and salty brunch buffet. For an urban sugar shack experience, head over to the Ste-Hélène Bistro-Terrasse in Parc Jean-Drapeau, transformed into a traditional sugar shack until April 20.
Chocolate delights
Chocolate lovers will find their bliss in Montréal! Discover the refined creations of État de choc, M.&Mme chocolat and Amango Cacao, or order upscale sweet treats from Ernestine – Les Chocolats or Barbon. Craving a foodie adventure? The Jean-Talon and Atwater markets are overflowing with Easter treats to enjoy.
Custom cocktails for an exceptional long weekend
There’s no better way to kick off the long weekend than with a cocktail! Try a new creation or enjoy your classic favourites at one of Montréal’s trendy bars. Whether you prefer a cozy atmosphere, lively spots, or hidden gems, there’s always the perfect place to raise a glass.
Accessible art right in downtown
Jean-Marc Vallée: Mixtape
This spring, art takes centre stage with a ton of free activities! At the Esplanade of Place des Arts, INSITU by Montréal en Histoires offers an immersive and unique interactive journey! Explore the creations of 17 cultural institutions through augmented reality and experience an unprecedented, immersive adventure.
Montréal’s streets are an open-air gallery, bursting with captivating urban art. Explore the city’s impressive public art collection, where vibrant installations not only beautify the landscape but also enhance the daily experience. Plus, a wealth of free light installations and art galleries await across the city. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Montreal’s creativity!
If you find yourself in Old Montréal, PHI is a renowned exhibition space known for its fascinating and unique programming. Until May 4th, the Jean-Marc Vallée: Mixtape exhibit offers a multimedia and sonic journey into the life and legacy of the acclaimed director. Through the stories of his collaborators and loved ones, the exhibit paints a portrait of an artist deeply passionate about music, a central element of his creative process.
A world of discovery for children
Jardin botanique - Espace pour la vie
Planétarium : Rouge 2100
If you’ve already taken the kids ice skating, tobogganing, and playing in the parks to squeeze out the last bit of winter fun, head indoors to Montréal’s museums for a family-friendly adventure. Pointe-à-Callière, Montréal’s Museum of Archaeology and History, brings the past to life with interactive exhibits and projections on pirates, railroads, and much more. It’s a fun and educational way to dive into history with the whole family!
At the Montréal Jardin botanique (Botanical Garden), the earth dons its springtime coat, and the greenhouses are in full bloom. The exhibit, A Close-knit nature explores key species and their crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. Meanwhile, the immersive Mégaceta experience takes visitors on a journey into the behaviour of humpback whales through life-size projections. Over at the Planetarium, science and creativity come together in the immersive exhibit Rouge 2100, a Martian adventure that delves into all that defines the Red Planet, including the challenges of potential colonization. Be sure to purchase your tickets online!
Embark on a captivating journey through time with the Life Chronicles immersive exhibit. Through a 45-minute virtual reality experience, explore major geological eras and trace the footsteps of dinosaurs and other extinct species.
Unforgettable cultural experiences in the world of museums
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
McCord Stewart Museum
Montreal’s cultural institutions never fail to amaze, and this Easter weekend is no exception. At the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts, Heart On is a beautiful tribute to Canadian artist Joyce Wieland. This retrospective offers a glimpse into the work of this influential 20th-century artist, who made her mark in both cinema and the visual arts. Over one hundred of her works, including painting, collage, textile art, printmaking and film, will be on display.
At the McCord Stewart Museum, Costume Balls – Dressing Up History, 1870-1927 offers an immersive journey into the world of masquerade balls and skating carnivals. This exhibit unveils a fascinating aspect of 19th-century aristocracy. Beneath the grandeur of lavish parties and elegant costumes lies the colonial myths and imperialist ideology of the time. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of history through the lens of fashion and social events.
A wellness break
A long weekend is often synonymous with a getaway, and what better way to recharge than with a wellness session? Montréal is full of places where you can unwind and enjoy a moment of pure relaxation. Whether your idea of well-being is a floating spa on the St. Lawrence River, a hydrotherapy treatment followed by a soothing massage, a facial at a hotel spa, or a romantic escape to Nun’s Island, Montréal has everything you need to disconnect and rejuvenate over Easter weekend.
Happy Easter!
Original article in French by Valérie Dorion, adapted into English by Dawn Bessey-Gans.
Valérie Dorion
In love with words and Montreal, Valérie writes for various media and companies and creates colorful, original, but always relevant content. A true foodie and traveler, she likes to be on the lookout for anything new in terms of gastronomy and activities. On a daily basis, you'll probably find her on her laptop at the latest local coffee shop, writing or looking for the latest hot spots.