5 Fun things to do this weekend in Montréal! (March 20 - 22)
Festivals and events Leisure activities, nature and relaxation The city
Whether you’re craving the high-octane energy or the sweet indulgence of maple treats, we’ve mapped out some essential stops to master the city’s transition from winter chill to springtime soul.
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. Cabane Panache
Location: Promenade Wellington, Verdun
Closest Metro: De l’Église
This isn’t your grandmother’s sugar shack—it’s a four-day takeover of Wellington Street (voted one of the coolest streets in the world). Expect wood-chopping competitions, thick plaid shirts, and local chefs reimagining maple taffy with a gourmet twist.
- Why go: It’s the ultimate "Quartier Verdun" experience. Authentic, loud, and smells like woodsmoke and syrup.
- Pro Tip: Wear boots you don't mind getting a little dirty; the "festive camp" vibe is real.
2. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Location: Downtown (Corner of Fort & De Maisonneuve)
Closest Metro: Guy-Concordia / Peel
Montréal has been hosting this parade since 1824, making it older than your favourite historical novel. It’s a massive three-hour surge of green through the Downtown Core. It’s a lively tribute to the local Irish community.
- The Route: Starts at noon at Fort and De Maisonneuve, heading east.
- Tip: This is the second-largest parade of its kind in North America. Arrive 45 minutes early if you want a view of the floats that isn't blocked by someone’s giant green hat.
3. Salon du chocolat
Location: Windsor Station
Closest Metro: Bonaventure
Located in the iconic Windsor Station, this is essentially Fashion Week but for cocoa. From chocolate fashion shows (yes, edible dresses) to professional pastry workshops, it’s a high-end sensory experience tucked inside the glass-roofed former train station.
4. Jeux Urbains Montréal
Location: Centre Eaton
Closest Metro: McGill
This isn't your typical track and field meet. The Urban Games bring high-octane disciplines like breakdancing, parkour, and more to downtown. It’s a three-day indoor festival where the line between elite sport and street art completely disappears.
Local vibe: If you want to see the energy of Montréal’s youth culture, this is where you’ll find it.
5. Maria Somerville at the SAT
Location: Société des arts technologiques (SAT)
Closest Metro: Saint-Laurent
Kick off the whole weekend at the SAT, the city’s hub for digital arts. Irish musician Maria Somerville brings her ethereal, shoegaze-heavy soundscapes to a venue known for its immersive visuals. It’s the perfect auditory "palate cleanser" to start the weekend. Friday night only.
- The vibe: Hazy, hypnotic, and very "Montréal Cool."
- Tip: You’re steps away from the bars of St. Laurent Blvd if you’re not ready for the night to end.
Discover all our Montréal recommendations for the month of March
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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