5 Fun things to do this weekend in Montréal! (April 10-12)
Festivals and events Leisure activities, nature and relaxation The city
Clowns? Sculpture? Maple treats? Yes, yes, and yes. Navigate the city's most anticipated cultural happenings with this weekender’s guide to Montréal.
To enjoy the best the city has to offer during your stay, please don't think of yourself as a tourist, but as one of us. Whether you're here for a few days, a few weeks or a few years, we're counting on you to enjoy Montréal in a spirit of respect, responsibility and celebration!
1. Montréal Clown Festival
Prepare for a weekend of whimsy. This isn’t just "birthday party" clowning; it’s a high-level showcase of physical theatre, mime, and avant-garde performance art that brings international talent to our local stage.
- Best for: Theatre lovers, families looking for laughs, and fans of the "weird and wonderful" fringe scene.
- Location: MainLine Theatre (The Plateau) | 3997 St Laurent Blvd. Pro tip: Grab a smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s nearby after the show.
2. Plural Contemporary Art Fair
Formerly known as Papier, this is the most prestigious contemporary art fair in the city. It transforms the waterfront into a massive gallery where you can see what’s currently trending in the Canadian and international art markets.
- Best for: Art collectors, interior design enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a sophisticated "date night" activity.
- Location: Grand Quai (Grand Quay) of the Port of Montréal (Old Montréal) | 200 de la Commune St W.
3. The Big Fashion Sale by Québec Designers
Locals know this simply as "La Braderie." It is the absolute best place to snag high-end local labels (think Mackage, Melissa Nepton, or Eve Gravel) at sample-sale prices. It is high-energy and high-reward shopping.
- Best for: Fashionistas on a budget, supporters of "Buy Local," and wardrobe refreshers.
- Location: Marché Bonsecours (Old Montréal) | 350 Saint-Paul St E.
4. Urban Sugar Shack
If you don't have time to drive out to the countryside for a cabane à sucre, this is your best bet. Located on the island, the Ste-Hélène Bistro-Terrasse offers the full maple experience—pea soup, ham, and tire d'érable—with a view of the city skyline.
- Best for: Families with kids, foodies craving tradition, and tourists who want the "maple experience" without the long commute.
- Location: Parc Jean-Drapeau (Sainte-Hélène Island) | 1 Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Accessible via the Jean-Drapeau Metro station.
5. The Torlonia Collection - Masterpieces of Roman Sculpture
This is a massive cultural coup for Montréal. Seeing these marbles—widely considered the most important private collection of Roman art in the world—outside of Europe is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
- Best for: History buffs, classical art students, and those looking for a quiet, contemplative escape from the spring drizzle.
- Location: Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (The Golden Square Mile) | 1380 Sherbrooke St W.
Discover all our Montréal recommendations for the month of April
Daniel Baylis
Daniel Baylis is a writer, poet, and musician. Several years ago he moved to Montréal to chase silly bohemian dreams. And he’s still at it.
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