The Gens du Vieux reinvent Christmas

We look forward to the magic of the holidays every December, and the Gens du Vieux are taking their business seriously this year to bring the Christmas spirit to the historical neighbourhood. Get ready for Christmas Markets, enchanting decorations, and age-old traditions!

Bar Miracle: Celebrate and give back

Well-loved by Christmas fans, this franchise is the ugly sweater of bars: you have to see it to get it! This year, Bar Miracle is back and can be found at the Parliament. You’ll notice that nothing here is done in half-measure; not the decor, and certainly not the cocktails. “No hesitation, I’d recommend the Santa Rex. And you can also purchase the glass, it’s a T-rex,” mentions Kevin Demers, captain at the helm of this Montreal-based franchise, which will be open November 15th to December 26th, from 2p.m. to 2 a.m.

Good to know: Miracle is one of our favourites, because 100% of collected entry fees (at one’s discretion), and 50% of the bar profits are donated to a charity organization. This year, they will be donating to SOS Violence Conjugale.

Christmas Market at L’Auberge Saint-Gabriel (December 11 and 12)

In the unique setting of this iconic Old Montreal building, Eska and l’Auberge is hosting a market that highlights Quebec artisans. Cosmetics, jewellery, clothing made from recycled materials, and fine groceries, you’ll find plenty here to fill your sack of goodies while supporting the local economy. Shopping smart and taking part in joyous tradition? We love it! And to make the most of this wintry experience, we suggest trying the Auberge’s signature Swiss fondue, served to the sweet sounds of acapella group The Rainbows.

Good to know: You can also find Christmas ornaments made from recycled materials, notably from Eska water bottles by creator Emy Lalune.

Photobooth at Maison Pepin (Weekends until December 19th)

If there are bigger fans of Christmas in le Vieux than us, you’ll probably find them here! This concept store on Saint-Paul Street is a dearly beloved place that has been here for many years for those who love the holidays, and owner Lysanne Pepin has continued to reinvent the experience without any repetition. This year, she has organized an idyllic scene where you can take Christmas photos in its iconic alleyway. You can reserve your spaces on weekends in December.

And of course, don’t be shocked if you find yourself lost amidst the store’s aisles: there are so many great items that could be the finishing touch for your tree.

Victorian Christmas at Sir Georges-Étienne Cartier Historical Site (weekends in December)

Since this building makes up part of Canada’s history, and since it’s one of the rare houses from the Victorian era that has been perfectly preserved… you know that once you pass these doors, you’ll be transported back in time! You’ll be surprised to learn that there are some traditions that are not so different from our own! To be discovered: the table tree, handmade Christmas cards, surprising culinary traditions, and the obligatory champagne.

Good to know: guided tours will take place from December 4th to the 19th, every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Christmas Wonder and Traditions with Pointe-à-Callière (December-January)

Because winter is a major part of Canada’s geographic place in the world, we love playing outdoors and bonding over traditions that we can appreciate no matter our age. To satisfy this urge, your destination is at Place Royale! The Pointe-à-Callière Museum, with the support of the Old Montreal SDC, is putting on some unique winter décor where you can enjoy some lights as well as learn more about Santa Claus around the world.