Québec’s national holiday celebrations in Montréal: tribute to the iconic song, “Gens du pays”
Outdoor Summer Festivals and events
This year, Québec’s national holiday —affectionately known as la Saint-Jean-Baptiste or simply Saint-Jean — invites you to celebrate Québec in style, with music, pride, and community spirit. On June 23 and 24, 2025, experience the magic of La Fête nationale du Québec in Montréal, where love, joy, and togetherness take centre stage at a host of vibrant events across the city.
Traditional parade
This year’s parade marks the 50th anniversary of the first public performance of Gens du pays, the beloved song composed by Gilles Vigneault in collaboration with the late Gaston Rochon. First sung during the 1975 Fête nationale on Mount Royal, the song quickly became a cultural anthem, replacing the traditional “Happy Birthday” and inviting Quebecers to talk about love on their special day. Inspired by this iconic tribute to Québec identity, the colourful parade will take place on Monday, June 24 at 2 p.m. Join the joyful procession as it sets off from the corner of Molson and Rachel Streets, heading toward Orléans Avenue. From there, the route continues south to Sherbrooke Street East, ending in Maisonneuve Park.
The Big Celebration
On the evening of June 24, starting at 8 p.m. in Maisonneuve Park, enjoy a free, intergenerational program brought to you by the organizers of La Fête nationale du Québec in Montréal. Hosted by the beloved Guylaine Tremblay, this year’s Grand Spectacle celebrates the beauty and poetry of Québécois music through a dazzling production that pays tribute to the creativity of the gens du pays. On stage, an incredible lineup—including Robert Charlebois, Sara Dufour, Loud, Elisabeth St-Gelais, Matt Lang, Yama Laurent, Yann Perreau, Bon Enfant, and Antoine Bertrand—will take you on a heartfelt musical journey where love is the common thread. Then, from 10:30 p.m. to midnight, keep the party going with live performances by Bon Enfant and Juju Le Moko.
Across Montréal neighbourhoods
On June 23 and 24, neighbourhood festivities will once again light up parks, alleyways, and public spaces across Montréal. With live shows, fireworks, long communal tables, craft and history workshops, inflatable games, face painting and lively parties, there’s fun for the whole family—and a great chance to celebrate with your community. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:
On June 24, celebrate La Fête nationale du Québec at the heart of the beautiful, pop-up La Guinguette du Sud-Ouest, set along the Lachine Canal. Enjoy a full program of free activities, concerts, performances and family-friendly entertainment—all showcasing Québec’s vibrant culture in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
In the Quartier des Spectacles, head to La SAT for a high-energy lineup featuring legendary DJ MC Mario, Lydia Képinski (DJ set), Odile Myrtil and Yuki B.
Also on June 24, the Côte-des-Neiges neighbourhood is hosting a festive family event from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Placette Côte-des-Neiges. Stay tuned for the full program details!
In Lachine, La Fête nationale will be celebrated at two locations in Lachine. From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., step back in time with the Fête foraine de jadis (Old-Time Fair) outside the Lachine Museum, featuring circus and dance workshops and performances by travelling musicians and street artists. Then, starting at 8:15 p.m., head to Noël-Spinelli Park for a high-energy concert with Québec rock icon Marjo!
Original article in French by Laure Juilliard, adapted into English by Dawn Bessey-Gans.
Happy Saint-Jean!
Laure Juilliard
Originally from Paris, Laure Juilliard made Montréal her home over 15 years ago and has never looked back. Won over by her new city's unique energy, cultural vibrancy and gastronomic effervescence, she loves exploring all the coolest spots. A writer and blogger specialising in lifestyle, culture, travel and gastronomy, she has lent her pen to Tourisme Montréal for more than 10 years, in addition to magazines such as ELLE Québec and Clin d'œil, as well as a variety of well-known companies and agencies. Always on the lookout for innovative concepts and the best addresses wherever she is in the world, she is also always planning her next trip.