Montreal’s top fall and winter festivals and events

by Maria Barillaro

The end of summer is a difficult time for Montrealers. We say goodbye to the short-lived joys of sangria and restaurant patios all around the city as we settle in for a long, gruelling winter season. But before you throw in the towel and succumb to hibernation, read through this list of fall and winter events. We can’t make any promises but we’re pretty sure some of these awesome festivals will actually make the cooler weather seem a little warmer this year. [image credit: IStockphoto]

Montreal is nothing if not diverse, which is what makes this festival celebrating the culture of our fine city all the more special. Held on the final weekend of September every autumn (Sept. 29-Oct.1 this year), this three-day festival is completely free. Over the weekend, you can expect a variety of activities celebrating the city’s history, commemorating landmarks, monuments, customs, and traditions.

Local artists, craftsmen, and community workers organize most activities, so the program varies from year to year. Participants hope to highlight the history of their trades in Montreal. Activities vary each September but are always open to residents of all ages, at no cost.

This festival will run from October 19 to 21 at Club Soda on St. Laurent. Including performers like Scarlett James, April March, and Missy Lisa, the three-day show includes burlesque performances, after-parties, workshops open to the public, and even a burlesque brunch with the performers. The shows are everything you can expect from a burlesque performance – sexy, funny, and always entertaining.

A festival that includes lots of food from the city’s finest restaurants? Where do we sign up? For the first two weeks in November (2-16), 175 participating restaurants will be offering a special table d’hôte dinner for anywhere from about $20 to $40 per person.

Some restaurants will also be offering $15 brunch deals. This festival allows everyone to experience the culinary delights of some of the city’s swankiest restaurants without breaking the bank. Indulge in savoury, authentic Italian pasta dishes, decadent lava cakes, and mouth-watering tartares. You can sample meals from some of the city’s most renowned chefs all week long.

In summertime, Montreal is known for hosting musical events like Osheaga, but the musical entertainment continues even as the leaves begin to fall. Every November, the city hosts a four-day music festival (Nov. 15-18 this year) with Avalanche Prod. The event includes performances by local Quebec and Canadian singers in the hopes of expanding their careers outside the local scene.

Over 200 music journalists and industry execs attend the event in search of new talent. Each year, the list of performers expands to include more musical acts and more diversity. This event is a great place to discover new music, support local musicians, and discover your passion for new genres.

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OTHER GREAT SUGGESTIONS:

• Be different: 10 "underground" places in Montreal worth seeing
• Grab a pre- or post-show bite in Quartier des Spectacles
• 24 history museums to visit for Montreal's 375th anniversary

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This well-known fair has continued to gain in popularity since its inception in 1950. Taking place at Place Bonaventure since 1978, it's become an annual gathering between writers and lovers of literature. This year the event celebrates its 40th anniversary, taking place from November 15 to 20. This is the time to encourage local talent and get all the books you can carry signed by their authors... if you're patient enough!

For the last 60 years, this annual show has been the place for the makers of fine crafts to display their talents. This is your chance to discover new and unique pieces, encourage local craftsmen, and celebrate the culture and diversity of our fine city.

Each presenter is an expert at their craft, showcasing only the best their trade has to offer. Here you’ll find unique jewellery, handmade ceramics, modern furniture, and even fashion-forward clothing. The show runs in December at Place Bonaventure and is always free – another perk!

The 19th edition of Montreal en Lumière is taking place from February 22 to March 4, 2018. Every year more than a million people flock to the event to participate in culinary activities, food tasting workshops and conferences, and to witness musical, circus, dance or theatre performances.

The outdoor site offers free activities for the whole family, including a Ferris wheel and curling. And let's not forget Nuit Blanche - come see more than 220 performances presented by more than 600 artists and sample dishes from one of the 44 restaurants represented.

If there is anything Montreal can do better than anyone else, it’s entertainment! These unique and exciting fall and winter festivals just might help get you through the cold weather this year. From fine dining to exciting performances, this city is booming with events all year round. You may even actually like the winter after attending a few of these – seriously!