With the roads defrosting, the weather warming, and the clock springing forward, Montreal is back and better than ever with a bunch of activities to take advantage of the (relatively) temperate temperatures. Lucky for you, The Tribune has compiled a list to keep you occupied in the upcoming weeks—if you’re one of the lucky few who has a lull between midterms and finals, anyways.
From March 15 to April 16, the 16th annual Festival Art Souterrain will transform Montreal’s underground city into a contemporary art exhibition. The festival will feature 30 artists and five exhibit venues, as well as free artistic activities following this year’s theme: The environment. Entrance is free, although some activities, such as guided tours, require purchasing a ticket.
One of the perks of the festival is that it is underground—as much as we enjoy the weather getting warmer, it is still freezing outside, and there’s always the inevitable late-March snowstorm. The Underground City spans across 33 kilometers, serving as a pedestrian network right under the heart of Montreal that connects metro stations, shopping centers, and cultural landmarks. This festival is the perfect way to explore art while staying warm and getting to know one of Montreal’s most famous landmarks.
2. International Festival of Films on Art
If you’d rather see your art through a video camera, this festival may be for you! From March 13 to March 30, the International Festival of Films on Art will be presenting hundreds of short and feature-length films on art and culture in cinemas in various locations downtown in light of its 43rd edition. This festival is your chance to watch captivating movies, paintings, photography, music, and dance, exploring Montreal’s rich artistic culture. The virtual edition extends until March 30, allowing you to enjoy the art from the comfort of your home if you are unable to make it in person.
If you live in Quebec and you’ve never been to a cabane à sucre, can you really say you have lived the Quebec experience? Even if you have been to one before, not going to Cabane Panache this year would mean missing out on one of the province’s sweetest traditions! From March 20 to 23, on Promenade Wellington, you can find maple syrup delights, live folk music, and expanded festivities. This year’s edition is special as it is part of Verdun’s 150th-anniversary celebrations. Be sure not to miss out on the largest urban sugar shack festival, and bring some of your friends along while you are at it. Additionally, it is not too far from McGill by metro, as it is located near De l’Église metro station.
4. Montreal’s St. Patrick’s Parade
On March 16, Montreal’s St. Patrick’s Parade will take place on Rue de Maisonneuve, from Fort St. to Jeanne-Mance, starting at noon. It has happened annually since 1824, making it the second most famous Irish parade in North America, behind New York. Expect floats, marching bands, musicians, and performers flooding the streets. Whether you have Irish roots or just love a good celebration, this event is a must-see!
5. The Montreal National Women’s Show
From March 28 to March 30, enjoy a weekend of fashion, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle at the Montreal National Women’s Show. At the Palais des Congrès, the show will feature over 320 exhibitors providing attendees with food, wine tastings, fashion shows, celebrity guests, free beauty makeovers, health and beauty tips, cooking demonstrations, interior-design advice and travel ideas. Conferences and workshops complete the program of this event dedicated to women.
Montreal has covered you for March, so mark your calendars and make the most of these upcoming events!
