Cultural Activities in the Neighbourhood

Old Montreal isn’t just the best vacation destination during the summer – so much can be found here in the winter too!

Lovers of the arts can expect to see spectacular concerts, experimental theatre, paintings with invigorating colours, stories from the world’s four corners, and even immersive, sensorial exhibits. And searching out these activities is a great excuse to enjoy the light fixtures in the surrounding streets while you’re out. Here are our suggestions for your magical winter getaway.

Pointe-à-Callière Museum, 350 Place Royale

This must-visit place has one of the most exciting end-of-year offerings out there. First off, you need to visit their gripping show on the stories and legends of Christmas. Do you have more of an artistic streak? Tempt yourself with one of their creation workshops, where you can craft your own African mask, Mexican hat, or practice Chinese calligraphy. We also recommend discovering the most recent temporary Pointe-à-Callière exhibit, which gathers 300 head coverings from different time periods across four continents. And finally, you should take a break at Place Royal – its comfortable benches and lit Christmas trees give it a strong feeling of being in a warm, wintry chalet. It’s the perfect place to sip on a good hot chocolate, from one of the neighbourhood’s many beloved businesses.

Centaur Theatre, 453 Saint-François-Xavier Street

Are you passionate about the theatre? While the majority of businesses in the metropolis close their doors during the whole of the holiday vacation, Centaur brings us an unusual activity. On its website, you can see six short clips of monologues that you’ll be able to enjoy on the stage next spring. It’s a fascinating exploration of the differences between the stage and the screen. Then in January, attend one of the shows at Festival Wildside dedicated to experimental theatre. Among some of the creations present is a thriller adapted from a classic from French dramatist Jean Genet, as well as a story told of the repercussions of the recent Russian invasion of the Ukraine.

National Institute of Contemporary Art, 50 Saint-Paul Street West

Don’t miss the collective exhibit Formats à emporter, presented at the National Institute of Contemporary Art. We totally fell for the rich colours on these works and the phantasmagorical universe of Tuan Vu. We also adore the recovered sewn canvases by Alexia McKindsey. And the creations made by Janna Yotte are so fascinating – collages that are inspired by botanical works, fashion magazines… and antiquated medical advice. Intriguing!

Marguerite-Bourgeoys Historical Site, 400 Saint-Paul Street East

For the music lovers out there, the Candlelight Concerts are a must. Set in a warm ambiance, delight in jazz melodies, favourites from the pop group Queen, as well as the legendary creations of Vivaldi, at Notre-Dame-du-Bon-Secours Chapel, constructed in 1771, making this the oldest stone-constructed chapel in the city. It’s magical!

Centre PHI, 315 Saint-Paul Street West

Are you captivated by new technology? You’ve got a date at Centre PHI. The immersive sensory exhibit Dernière minute is meant to be a reflection on the passage of time, and throughout the installation, its focus shifts in turn toward elements of nature: wind, ashes, waves, fire… During certain portions, dancers will trace movements in symbiosis with projections signed by Adrien M & Claire B. The audio space Habitat sonore is also worth the detour, for its sessions dedicated to colour therapy, sound baths, meditation, and songs by acclaimed artists such as Daniel Bélanger, Klô Pelgag, Patrick Watson, and Alexandra Stréliski.

Galerie L’Original, 163 Saint-Paul Street West

In this space dedicated to street art, discover canvases by Verdier, who already has a dozen exhibitions under his belt barely three years into his career. His signature? Self portraits with charming references to little robot Astro! Make your way to Galerie L’Original to admire his work that pays homage to childhood and the candor that precedes the loss of innocence – a theme that is more pertinent than ever during the holiday season.

Photos : Sara Mega & Marie-Jade Morneau

N.B.: Does your business fit the theme of this list but is not yet mentioned here? Don’t hesitate to write to us at info@sdcvieuxmontreal.com and we would be happy to add it.