OldMontreal:LongLiveSummer!
This summer, the Bonsecours sector has been transformed into a true open-air playground just begging to be enjoyed. Between heritage, culture, relaxation and discovery, the featured seasonal programming and installations invite young and old alike to make the most of the historic district, one activity at a time.
Pétanque on De la Commune Street
Are you a shooter or a pointer? This little phrase is practically the anthem of the season, with the pétanque courts on De la Commune Street open for free play all summer long. Just visiting the neighbourhood? No problem — boules can be borrowed at the Marché Bonsecours Public Plaza, hours permitting.
Games and relaxation on the Marché Bonsecours forecourt
Part play area, part relaxation spot, the new Public Plaza is doing double duty this summer. Giant games, good music, rest areas and floral installations have claimed the Marché Bonsecours square, turning it into a hub overflowing with life. And to help make sure the space stays welcoming, a cleanup brigade will also be on hand all season long.
Art at the Belvedere
Not a false note to be heard under the stars! With its series titled Head in the Clouds, the Marguerite Bourgeoys Historic Site, in collaboration with the SDC Vieux-Montréal, is putting on simply magical events in the historic district:
"Listen & Take It All In" – Enjoy a free open-air concert while taking in the spectacular panorama from the Belvedere, featuring the enchanting performances of Lumine Egan (cello) and Mayu Egan (violin). July 24 & 25, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
"Observe & Sketch" – Join illustrator Romain Blais, creator of the temporary exhibition BjFj-96: The Secrets of Bonsecours, for a one-of-a-kind drawing workshop inspired by the surrounding cityscape. July 29 & 31, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
"Imagine & Create" – Design your own postcard collage during this free creative workshop for adults, held at the top of the Belvedere. August 7 & 8, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
On August 14 & 15, the Belvedere will also be exceptionally open for visitors to simply relax and enjoy its spectacular 360-degree views over the city and the St. Lawrence River from the top of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel.
Photography takes to the streets
The Château Ramezay is presenting a free photo exhibition on Saint-Claude and Le Royer streets, in partnership with the SDC Vieux-Montréal and in collaboration with World Press Photo Montreal. This summer, the exhibition pays tribute to Quebec photojournalist Jacques Nadeau and his striking images of recent news events.
History, guided
Les Chroniques du Vieux is back for a second season! Following the success of an award-winning first run, the SDC Vieux-Montréal and Guidatour are launching this new edition, and for the first time, the video capsules will be paired with free guided tours of the Bonsecours area. Want to trade the screen for the real thing alongside true enthusiasts? Come and discover Old Montreal like you've never seen it before.
Archaeology and mysteries at the Marguerite Bourgeoys Historic Site
With its exhibition BjFj-96, the Marguerite Bourgeoys Historic Site opens up the ground with a behind-the-scenes look at archaeological digs conducted over the past 30 years. Learn how one chapel can actually hide another, and try to decode the meaning behind "BjFj", if you can piece together all the clues!
Photography at Marché Bonsecours
From August 26 to October 12, international news comes to life through the world's best photography, as Old Montreal once again welcomes the prestigious World Press Photo Montreal exhibition, in partnership with the SDC Vieux-Montréal.
Political history at the Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site
The former home of one of the fathers of Confederation is not only a beautifully preserved Victorian gem, but also a museum with powerful exhibits that travel back in time and remind us of the political foundation on which our democracy rests.
Photo credits: Sara Megan
