5 Fun things to do this weekend in Montréal! (April 3 - 6)

Montréal is a North American hub for bean-to-bar craftsmanship. From the historic streets of Old Montréal to the trendy boutiques of the Plateau and Mile End, the city’s chocolatiers are a must-visit during Easter. Whether you are looking for hand-painted pralines or high-percentage single-origin bars, shops like Les Chocolats de Chloé or Chocolats Privilège offer a masterclass in cacao.

• Best For: Foodies and families looking for gourmet, handcrafted Easter treats.
• Pro-Tip: Head to État de Choc in Little Italy for a tasting room that is designed like a "chocolate library.” 

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For a dose of high-octane culture, head to Place des Arts for a performance that is taking the contemporary dance world by storm. Manifesto features nine dancers and nine percussionists in a rhythmic, primal explosion of energy. Choreographed by Australia’s Stephanie Lake with a score by Robin Fox, it is a visual and auditory feast that defies intellectualization.

• Best For: Art enthusiasts and culture seekers looking for an avant-garde alternative to traditional holiday events.
• Pro-Tip: Arrive 45 minutes early to grab a cocktail at Bivouac nearby; the terrace offers a great view of the Quartier des Spectacles, and the "primal" energy of the show is best enjoyed with a little pre-performance buzz.

Book tickets

Easter is the ideal window to appreciate Montréal’s "City of a Hundred Bell Towers" nickname. Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal, one of the world’s most visited pilgrimage sites, offers a breathtaking setting for Holy Week. Beyond the Oratory, the Notre-Dame Basilica and Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral offer stunning architecture and choral performances that define the Montréal Easter experience.

• Best For: History buffs and those seeking a traditional, spiritual, or architectural connection to the holiday.
• Pro-Tip: For an unforgettable experience, attend the 11:00 a.m. Easter Sunday Mass at the Oratory to hear the Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal choir. Or arrive for the sunset on the terrace—arguably the best panoramic view of the city.

Plan your visit

Celebrate the diversity of the Francophone world at the Vues d’Afrique International Film Festival. This long-standing cultural staple showcases the best of African and Creole cinema. It’s more than just a film festival; it’s a bridge for international exchange, featuring screenings, workshops, and opportunities to meet creators from across the globe right in the heart of the city.

• Best For: Cinephiles and global citizens interested in diverse storytelling and international perspectives.
• Pro-Tip: Most screenings take place at the Cinémathèque québécoise; check out their onsite bar, Le 7e, after your film—it’s a favourite haunt for local directors and the perfect spot for a post-screening debate.

See the lineup 

Make the most of the long weekend by booking a "spa-cation." Montréal is famous for its unique wellness centres, most notably Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau—a floating spa anchored in the Old Port. For a nature-focused escape, head to Strøm Nordic Spa on Nun’s Island to enjoy thermal circuits and hydrotherapy with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.

• Best For: Couples and solo travellers looking to disconnect, recharge, and practice self-care.
• Holiday weekends get busy! Book the 9:00 a.m. "Early Bird" slot at Strøm Nordic Spa. You’ll have the infinity pool almost entirely to yourself, and the morning light is cinematic.

Find your calm