The Sweet Days and Sizzling Nights of Summer
With the warm days upon us, as the folks of Eeyou Istchee slowly return to regular life after Goose Break, many are already thinking ahead to their summer getaways.
While the recession may not have impacted the Cree communities nearly as dramatically as the rest of the Northern Hemisphere, it has affected the tourism industry significantly. Though the Montreal Grand Prix may have gone the way of the dodo and some events and attractions may be pared down, Quebec is still the ultimate playground for hot summer fun.
So, whether it’s family fun you are after, art and culture to fuel your mind and soul or something to get your body and adrenaline pumping, Quebec in all of its glory has something to offer you.
With that the Nation is proud to present the 2009 edition of its annual tourism guide. Enjoy!
MONTREAL FESTIVALS
May
While Montreal might not be the provincial capital, it may well be its cultural capital. Serving up festivals for theatre, music, film, dance, art, beer and so, so much more, when it comes to taking in a cultural extravaganza, Montreal is the place to be!
MUTEK
It’s hard to believe that this little festival, which promotes emerging forms of electronic music and the latest trends in sound creation, is now in its 10th year. Featuring both daytime and nighttime programming, this year’s edition will feature over 100 artists, panelists and workshops for five jam-packed days devoted to electronic music.
This year’s festival will feature various showcases, a night devoted to France, a showcase devoted to Jamaican Dub, and one that “highlights the sheer internationalism of rhythmic attraction and all its regional manifestations,” according to its website. The annual outdoor dance parties through Piknic Electronik at Parc Jean-Drapeau will also be happening once again for those who love to kick it barefoot while taking in the tunes.
Mutek runs from May 27-31. For the schedule and ticket info: www.mutek.org
MONTREAL MUSEUMS DAY
On the last Sunday of May, the Board of Montreal Museum Directors offers a freebie to Montrealers and visitors by opening up their doors gratis. The 30 participants offer free access to their spaces and the City of Montreal provides six busses to shuttle patrons from place to place, free of charge.
Since the event started in 1987, over 1.5 million people have enjoyed this culturally enriching day. Last year’s 135,000 visitors set a record.
Along with what is going on at the museums, a number of special activities are going on for the day. From family fun to outdoor activities, arts-and-crafts workshops, concerts, tastings, science experiments, films, games, historical re-enactments, presentations, shows and guided tours, there is something for everyone.
For more info: www.museesmontreal.org/en/Montreal_Museums_Day
MONTREAL BIKE FESTIVAL
If cycling is your sport and Montreal is your destination, the Montreal Bike Festival is offering some fun and innovative events to get your heart pumping.
Though the event spans from May 31-June 7, the main events will take place on the weekends. The event kicks off with the Metropolitan Bike Challenge on the south shore May 31. During the week, Montrealers will be encouraged to bike to work and the festival will provide workshops on bicycle commuting. Another major event is geared specifically towards the night owls as 1200 cyclists take to the streets for a special nighttime route.
The festival culminates with the annual Tour de l’Île de Montréal, a 52-kilometre route that brings out over 30, 000 cyclists for a breathtaking tour of the island. The event begins and ends in Jeanne-Mance Park and with this being the 25th anniversary of the event, the Cirque du Soleil will provide the cyclists with an exhilarating send-off.
For more info or to register: www.velo.qc.ca/feria
June
MONDIAL DE LA BIÈRE
Beer lovers from far and wide congregate in celebration during the Mondial de la bière or Montreal Beer Festival and this year’s event is happening from June 3-7.
Downtown Montreal’s historic Windsor Station and adjoining courtyard play host to this sudsy event that features brews from every corner of the globe. Rather than paying an entrance fee, patrons can purchase a tasting glass and tickets, which they then exchange for both beverages and snacks that have been specially selected to go with the beverage.
This year’s event features a Japanese theme.
The Beer and Fine Gastronomy Reception special will be highlighting the seven participating Japanese microbreweries and some upscale Japanese eats along with the usual appetizers and cheeses, accompanied by beers. Tickets for this event run at $125 per person and can be purchased on the Mondial’s website where more info on the festival can be found. www.festivalmondialbiere.qc.ca
SUONI PER IL POPOLO FESTIVAL
Also know as the “Sounds for the People Festival”, this avant-garde event is dedicated to bringing Montreal dynamic, community-based leftfield music which includes everything from jazz to noise to experimental rock.
This month-long festival kicks off on June 3 brings together an eclectic mix of different genres that share one common element – music that resonates with progressive social movements. It’s a great fest to see many established acts as well as some evocative emerging artists.
Acts that are already confirmed include Canadian punk legends Nomeansno, TV On The Radio, returning crowd favourite William Parker as part of the Dave Burrell Trio with Nasheet Waits, mysterioso guitar guru Six Organs of Admittance, and weirdo rock dude Jay Reatard.
The shows take place at the Sala Rossa and il Motore. For more info: www.suoniperilpopolo.org
ST-AMBROISE MONTREAL FRINGE
Now in its 19th edition, the Montreal Fringe Festival is a cherished annual event for lovers of theatre, dance and general weirdness. Not only does the Fringe Fest bring together the best of alternative theatre, dance and performance art, no other Montreal festival is synonymous with the same kind of off-the-wall atmosphere.
Though the full schedule is not yet available, the Fringe (June 11-21) will have its annual “Fringe Central” beer tent (corner of St-Laurent and Rachel) that features music and sketches all day and night and, of course, the Drag Races. Not to be confused with any kind of vehicular racing, this race involves men and women dressing up outlandishly as the opposite sex and then racing around.
Wonderfully vibrant, inexpensive and full of surprises, the St-Ambroise Fringe Festival has become a time-honoured Montreal tradition. For more info:
LAND INSIGHTS: THE FIRST PEOPLE’S FESTIVAL
Celebrating the history, culture and contributions of Indigenous peoples, the First People’s Festival is serving up another 10 days of festivities from June 11-21.
This year’s event will include the annual Indigenous film competition that will once again bring together the best of Indigenous cinema from around the world and feature several film premieres.
As part of the festival, there will be a visual-arts show devoted to the skies at la Grande Bibliothèque to celebrate the International Year of Astronomy. A ballet performance addressing themes of family will be staged by Lara Kramer at the Gésu.
Wrapping up the festival, this year’s National Aboriginal Day celebrations will once again happen in Parc Émilie-Gamelin and feature outdoor cinema and live entertainment. This year’s event will have a French Polynesian theme and feature works and cultural aspects of Tahiti and Marquises. Mélissa Pash and Mike O’Cleary will also be performing.
For more info: www.nativelynx.qc.ca
INTERNATIONAL DES FEUX LOTO-QUÉBEC
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Montreal International Fireworks Competition brings colour and excitement to the city skies in a celebration of art and culture.
The event started at the city’s amusement park, La Ronde, in 1985 and has been a success ever since. Between June 13 and August 22, 10 different spectacular events will be hosted by eight different countries plus there’s the opening and closing shows.
Spain kicks off the competition on June 20, followed by England on June 27, Australia on July 4, Hong Kong and China on July 11, Argentina on July 18, Quebec and Canada on July 25, the United States on August 1 and South Africa on August 8. La Ronde will host the closing event on August 15 as a tribute to the Cirque du Soleil.
For more info: www.internationaldesfeuxloto-quebec.com
LA FÊTE NATIONALE
While there is certainly never a shortage of national pride in Quebec, the city of Montreal will once again be putting together a big shebang on June 24 for the Fête National from concerts to parties and of course, the annual parade. This year’s Parc Maisonneuve party will be hosted by Guy A. Lepage.
In light of this being the 175th anniversary of the Fête National celebrations, there will also be a celebration of “giants” in Quebec history to honour the contributions of 10 individuals. They are Ludger Duvernay, René Lévesque, Félix Leclerc, Jeanne Mance, Ti-Jean Rigodon, Marie Moisson, Curé Labelle, Charles Le Moyne, Amaro le Sourcier and St-Patrice.
For more info:
www.fetenationale-montreal.qc.ca
MONTREAL INTERNATIONAL REGGAE FESTIVAL
Back for its sixth edition and stronger than ever, the Montreal Reggae Festival is gearing up for another three jam-packed days of roots, rock-steady, dancehall and, of course, reggae.
Rather than going with the quays of the Old Port as in previous years, the Reggae Festival will be held from June 26-28 in Parc Jean Drapeau so there will be lots of space for patrons to bring their families and throw down a blanket to enjoy the tunes.
The festival kicks off on Friday night with legendary Jamaican Sound System Stur-Gav, featuring original 1970s members DJ U-Roy, Josey Wales, Charlie Chaplin and Brigadier Jerry. Also at the festival are Anthony B, Capleton, Frankie Paul, Ky-Mani Marley, Little Hero, Onyan, Sanchez and Sugar Minott.
Though there’s a ticket fee for the evening events, the daytime shows are free and ideal for family time. Though the full schedule for this event has yet to be released, numerous local reggae acts will be added to the bill.
For more info:
July
CANADA DAY
Canada’s big birthday bash in the Old Port will not stop short of greatness this year as it is promising an extravaganza of the likes this country has never seen before.
During the day there will be an inflatable game village for children that will be much bigger than previous years with 12 different games. There will also be the usual fare with face painting, children’s entertainers and clowns.
Like last year, the Mondiale du Soccer Rapide will be back with teams from Brazil, Peru, the U.S. and Canada to pique the interests of sports fans.
For adrenaline lovers, there will be “weight board” competitions – a fusion of snowboarding, surfing and waterskiing that is facilitated with the use of machinery in big pools. The Sky Hawks parachuting team will also be putting on a show during the day.
For the main event there will be a huge pyrotechnical show with elaborate firework, and laser technology that has never been shown in Canada before and projections over steam on the water.
Though there will be artists performing on the grand stage at night, the focus is turning more towards a DJ dance party instead of a concert experience so it’s going to be a large outdoor disco.
For more info: www.celafete.ca/fr/index.php
MONTREAL INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL
Montreal’s biggest annual music event is coming of age this year as it hits the 30-year mark and what an edition it’s going to be! Expect June 30 through July 12 to be the best bets in Montreal for music lovers as there is just so much to take in this year.
As a special birthday gift to patrons, none other than Mr. Stevie Wonder will be opening up the festival on the outdoor General Motors Stage in his first-ever visit to the Festival.
To whet jazz lovers’ appetites, Gary Burton Quartet Revisited with Pat Metheny, Steve Swallow and Antonio Sanchez, will play Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier on June 26, as part of the pre-festival activities.
As for the rest of the indoor program, an embarrassment of riches awaits!
Pleins feux General Motors series, Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier,
To kick off the fest, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and very special guest, flamenco piano sensation Chano Dominguez and his quartet play on June 30. Popular British jazz artist Jamie Cullum will hit the stage on July 1 with opening act, Hilary Kole. American trumpet virtuoso Chris Botti will play with an orchestra on July 2 for a unique pop-jazz experience. Jazz legend Tony Bennett brings on his velvet vocals on July 3, jazz icon Dave Brubeck on July 4 and a special evening featuring Al Jarreau and Molly Johnson goes down on July 5. The legendary Jeff Beck plays on July 6 while Pink Martini, a swing, jazz, classical and pop experience featuring a 51-piece orchestra happens on July 7-8. Rounding out this series, the Stray Cats’ Brian Setzer plays on July 10 and Jackson Browne plays July 11.
LES GRANDS CONCERTS TD CANADA TRUST SERIES, THÉÂTRE MAISONNEUVE
The Maria Schneider Jazz Orchestra kicks off the concert series on June 30. Also at this venue Monterey Quartet with Dave Holland, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter and Eric Harland play together on July 1. Cuban pianist Chucho Valdés plays on July 2, the Wayne Shorter Quartet on July 3, and the Miles from India, Miles Davis tribute goes down on July 4. The Branford Marsalis Quartet plays on July 5, the Ornette Coleman Quartet on July 9 and rapper Mos Def will do a musical fusion show with Robert Glasper on July 10. The Harlem Gospel Choir will grace a Montreal stage for the first time July 11.
RYTHMES BELL SERIES, MÉTROPOLIS
Kool & The Gang will be hitting the stage on July and for blues fans, Buddy Guy and Susan Tedeschi will play a double bill on July 2. Salsa act La India will play on July 3, The Lost Fingers on July 4, King Sunny Ade and Femi Kuti & The Positive Force on July 5, and as a double bill Oumou Sangare and Alpha Blondy play on July 8. From Jamaica Burning Spear and Toots & The Maytals will be heating up the stage on July 9 while pop sensations Estelle and Divine Brown will be getting bodies moving on July 10. Beirut will be perform with the Dodos on July 11.
These are only a sampling as the Jazz Fest offers an additional 10 series, each featuring a nightly concerts.
Also at this year’s festival are John Pizzarelli, Oliver Jones, a Battle of the Bands with the Glenn Miller Orchestra versus the Harry James Orchestra. With hundreds of musicians and thousands of fans descending on Montreal for this year’s event, it is sure to be the best year ever!
For the rest of the indoor schedule, ticketing info and the outdoor free show schedule which will be available in late May or early June, go to:
FIMA- FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL MONTREAL EN ARTS
Though this little festival may not get much fanfare, FIMA is the only Montreal festival to transform St. Catherine Street into an outdoor art gallery. On July 2-5 between St-Hubert and Papineau, the street becomes alive with visual arts.
Little-known artists flock to this event to sell their wares to the public while getting the opportunity to rub shoulders with gallery owners and agents. The event culminates with an awards ceremony presented by prestigious experts from the art world.
For more info: www.festivaldesarts.org
JUST FOR LAUGHS/ JUSTE POUR RIRE
Though this homegrown festival of laughter may start on July 3 with its French programming, the street festival and English programming, complete with loads of international starts, runs from July 16-26.
This year’s Just for Laughs Videotron Galas have got some heavy weights at the helm of these prestigious showcases including Whoppi Goldberg, John Cleese, Martin Short, Lewis Black and Jim Gaffigan, who serve as hosts and ambassadors of humour.
Not to be outdone, the All-Star show packs its own punch with the likes of Montreal’s own Caroline Rhea, HBO potty-mouth Louis CK, David Alan Grier, Jeff Ross and old time favourite, Louis Anderson. This show is a one-time affair however for those lucky enough to get tickets on Sunday, July 26.
Also at the festival this year, the man once known as Dr. Cliff Huxtable and the mastermind behind the Fat Albert series, none other than Bill Cosby himself. Cosby is back at the festival for what promises to be some relatively clean humour in two separate shows on July 25 at Place des Arts.
For those with an affinity for the Italian, international funnyman Roberto Benigni will be making his Montreal debut at this year’s festival in two shows. One will be entirely in Italian and the other will be partially in French and subtitles, and both will be about superheroes. On June 3 and 4 at Théâtre St-Denis.
The Just for Laughs club series are also back this year wtih everything from the always profane “Nasty Show” to “O’Comics,” the Irish comedy showcase.
For more info: www.hahaha.com/
FANTASIA
While summer days are synonymous with sun bathing, swimming and sand for many, there are others who want nothing more than to beat the heat by camping out in movie theatres. For that reason, many Montrealers and visitors flock to Fantasia for the latest in Asian cinema and many other sci-fi, fantasy and cartoon cinema treats.
From July 9-27, Fantasia will once again be pumping out the flicks for usually what is less than the price of a regular movie ticket. Films from all over the world are shown at this event and movie classics also return to the big screen for those who are feeling nostalgic. Though the schedule has yet been released, check its website in June for the details:www.festivalfantasia.com/pre2009/en/
MONTREAL INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT RACE FESTIVAL
While many Montreal festivals focus on big parties, sounds and stars, few possess the beauty or athleticism of the Dragon Boat Race Festival.
The 14th annual edition of Quebec’s largest Chinese-organized event will happen on July 25-26 in the Olympic Basin at Parc Jean Drapeau.
Besides the races, there will a number of Chinese cultural events will take place on the site from children’s activities to cultural eats. For more info on this fun and family friendly event: www.montrealdragonboat.com
DIVERS/CITÉ GAY AND LESBIAN PRIDE DAYS
What started out as a march for human rights has now blossomed into a multifaceted, multidisciplinary and multimedia arts and cultural festival in celebration of homosexuality and openness.
From July 26-August 2, hundreds of thousands of folks from around town and around the world flock to Montreal’s Gay Village to take in a series of concerts, dance parties, dance performances, art showings and drag shows.
Though the schedule for this event is not yet available, info on past events can be seen on their website:
LES FRANCOFOLIES
FrancoFolies, the French language music festival that never stops growing, is back this year for yet another exciting 11 days of music from July 30 to August 9.
Though the full program has yet to be released, some of the shows have already been announced. International sensation and local techno act, Numéro# will be playing Club Soda as will Les Moquettes Coquettes, Catherine Major, Martin Léon, Rokia Traoré, Sir Pathétik, Mara Tremblay, La Cas, Suarez and Alfa Rococo on various different evenings.
Over at Metropolis, Nouvelle Vague will play during this festival as will Malajube, Pierre Lapointe, Arthur H, Daniel Bélanger, Oxmo Puccino, Karkwa, and Ariane Moffatt.
There will be literally hundreds of francophone acts from all over the world flocking to perform at this prestigious musical festival, the largest of its kind in North America.
Though we have only mentioned the line-ups for two different series, there are details about three others on their website plus the outdoor shows will be announced later on this summer. For more info: www.francofolies.com
OSHEAGA
One of Montreal’s newest and fastest-growing festivals, Osheaga, is back for another two days at Parc Jean Drapeau to bring the city some of the hottest acts from around the world.
The shows start around noon at this outdoor music spectacular and then play long into the night, under the stars. This year the festival will run four days instead of two with two days of programming in various Montreal clubs before the main event in the park on the weekend. The programming for the club shows has yet to be announced, we already kinow the major acts for the Saturday and Sunday shows.
Coldplay will be gracing the stage as the major headliner on Saturday, August 1. They will be sharing the stage with The Roots, Jason Mraz, Girl Talk, Lykke Li, Eagles of Death, Caracol, Elbow, Josh Ritter, Kitty Daisy and Lewis, Winter Gloves and Silver Starling.
The program for Sunday, August 2 will feature the Beastie Boys as headliners plus Rufus Wainwright, Arctic Monkeys, The Decemberists, Crystal Castles, The Ting Tings, Beast, The Honey Brothers, Le Volume Etait au Maximum and Parlovr.
For festival info: www.osheaga.com
OTAKUTHON
What started out as an anime/ Manga film and literature festival at a university has blossomed into a full-on three-day convention dedicated to Asian animation.
Folks from all over clamour to this event to dress up as their favourite anime or Manga character and participate in a whole host of activities devoted to these characters. There is everything from anime/ Manga screenings, contests, panels and workshops, gaming, a masquerade, Japanese Pop “Idol” contests, Karaoke, a Saturday night dance and even a “free hugs zone,” for those that are feeling lonely.
If cosplay (dressing up like an avatar or anime character) is your thing, why not register and check it out from July 31-August 2 at Palais des Congrès. For more info: www.otakuthon.com
August
MONTREAL HIGHLAND GAMES
While the Irish have St. Patrick’s Day, the Scots have the Highland Games and in Montreal it’s not only a tradition, the event is an institution. After 32 years the event has even become a premier event on the North American highland games circuit.
Montreal’s West Island plays host to this one-day festival that features everything from seven different traditional Scottish heavyweight events to pipe band and highland dancing competitions.
It’s also a great time to sample traditional Scottish fare such as meat pies, haggis, Scottish beers and, of course, Scotch.
In that this event has always been a family affair, there’s a fabulous kiddy corner complete with inflated bounce rides, pony rides and other activities.
If you are Scottish or just like to pretend, this event happens on August 2 in Pierrefonds.
www.montrealhighlandgames.qc.ca
ANTICIPATION: THE 67TH WORLD SCIENCE FICTION CONVENTION
Sci-fi fans from around the world will be flocking to Palais des Congrès from August 6-10 for the 67th edition of this world-class convention.
Featuring five days of activities and events, this conference has a prestigious guest list along with more than 500 authors, artists and creators spending time with fans they love.
This year’s special guests include author Neil Gaiman, Élisabeth Vonarburg, publisher Tom Doherty, editor David G. Hartwell and Julie E. Czerneda as the master of ceremonies.
For more info: www.anticipationsf.ca
FESTIBLUES
If the blues really speaks to your soul, why not check out a five-day festival devoted to just that. Held in Ahuntsic, in Montreal’s northend, FestiBlues brings out some of Quebec’s best blues singers and musicians as well as some international stars.
Now in its 12th edition, the event takes place from August 12-16 and it’s the biggest blues event on the island of Montreal. For more info: www.festiblues.com/2009/?act=accueil&lang
WORLD FILM FESTIVAL
While France has Cannes and the U.S. has the Sundance Festival, Montreal has the World Film Festival, a premier event and competition.
This international event brings out all sorts of people from the film industry as well as world famous actors.
While many of the films screened at these festivals are world premieres, many of them won’t make it into the theatres until months later so it’s the perfect time to see something before everyone else.
The program is not unveiled until mid-summer so check the festival’s website to see just what exactly is coming to town:
www.ffm-montreal.org/fr_index.html
THE 18TH-CENTURY PUBLIC MARKET
While many Montreal festivals are about bringing what is hot to town or celebrating specific cultures or communities, few explore what old Quebec was like hundreds of years ago.
Pointe-à-Callière, Montreal’s museum of history and archeology, sets up shop outdoors August 29 and 30, and recreates the authentic atmosphere of Montreal’s first public market with farmers, craftspeople and entertainers demonstrating their skills.
The event features foods of the era, storytellers, musicians, two military regiments, a Native encampment, and some 100 historical figures.
For more info: www.pacmusee.qc.ca/index.aspx?lang=EN-CA
Napa Auto Parts 200
While we might have lost the Grand Prix, we still have NASCAR! For the third consecutive year, Montreal will be the place to be to catch the high-performance and heart-pumping action of NASCAR racing. The legendary Gilles Villeneuve circuit will also be the only stop outside of the U.S. this year to catch a NASCAR event on August 29 and 30.
For more info or tickets:
www.circuitgillesvilleneuve.ca/en
Accommodations
While staying in Montreal, the Nation recommends the
following hotels:
l’hôtel Du Fort – www.hoteldufort.com/
The Hotel Maritime Plaza –
Le Centre Sheraton Montreal Hotel – www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=463
The Delta Centre-Ville – www.deltahotels.com/hotels/hotels.php?hotelId=35
The Delta Montreal – www.deltahotels.com/hotels/hotels.php?hotelId=19
ONGOING EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS IN THE SOUTH OF QUEBEC
If you are in the south of Quebec there are also a number of ongoing events and attractions that could make for a fabulous getaway whether it’s for the whole family or just for yourself.
Montreal
LA RONDE
Quebec’s largest amusement park is still going strong, despite the fact that its U.S.-based owner, Six Flags, may be going through some financial difficulty.
The latest addition to the park is the new The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, live! The Mummy experience is a walk-through attraction where people can actually interact with characters from the film in an extraordinary atmosphere full of surprises, thrills and mystery.
In light of the current economic climate, La Ronde is offering reductions of all sorts of the services and products that are found on their website so that park patrons can get a better bang for their buck. For more info: www.laronde.com
CASINO DE MONTRÉAL
Fashioned out of the Quebec and France pavilions from Expo 67, the Casino de Montréal offers a Las Vegas casino experience in Montreal.
Featuring eight glorious floors of gambling tables, machines and games, the Casino also offers a five-star restaurant and Vegas-style shows. To check out their events calendar and to find out more about this popular tourist attraction go to:www.casinosduquebec.com/montreal
JET BOATING
If you happen to be near the Old Port of Montreal and are craving a wet and wild thrill ride, why not check out Jet Boating Montreal’s jet- and speed-boating experiences.
Ambling down the Lachine Rapids, groups and individuals can choose between a rafting experience on a jet boat or a fast James Bond-style excursion on a speed boat through the Old Port and then on to the rapids.
A favourite amongst many Montrealers, this fun attraction allows for both sight seeing and excitement all at once.
For more info:
Shakespeare in the Park
For those looking for a more heady experience, Repercussion Theatre’s Shakespeare in the Park series has delighted crowds young and old for decades now.
From July 23 to August 6, performances of Shakespeare’s “As You Like It” will be held in parks throughout the city.
This is also a fun and affordable activity. Rather than having an admission price, a hat is simply passed around for contributions from the audience.
For more info: www.repercussiontheatre.com
Piknic Électronik
For those who like the idea of getting down to techno grooves outside of a club atmosphere, there is nothing better than Piknic Électronik on a beautiful day.
Every Sunday afternoon, a portion of Parc Jean Drapeau’s Place de l’homme gets transformed into a sort of outdoor dance club. Some of the hottest DJs do guest spots at this event while patrons either get their groove on under the monument or camp out in the grass for a Sunday picnic while taking in the beats. It is literally the only place in the city to see six-year-olds dancing beside 60-year-olds and even the family dog.
Over the past few years, this fun and lively event has earned a cherished spot in the hearts of many as one of Montreal’s best hot-weather happenings.
For more info: http://www.piknicelectronik.com
THE TAM TAMS
If a hippy dippy vibe is more your way to groove out on a Sunday afternoon, Montreal’s Tam Tams Jam is the place to be to listen to dozens of drummers jam it out while others dance and bop around.
Every Sunday afternoon hundreds of individuals flock to the east slope of Mount Royal Park to take in the sights and sounds while luxuriating in the sun. Those who bring their instruments are welcome to join in the jam. This event is absolutely free to anyone who wishes to drop by.
For more info: tamtamsmontreal.net
Nature Parks & Eco Museums
While man-made attractions are fine and great, Mother Nature has her own selection of creations that are fun for the whole family.
BOTANICAL GARDENS
Featuring over 22,000 plant species and cultivars, 10 exhibition greenhouses, some 30 thematic gardens, Montreal’s Botanical Gardens are a tremendous way to check out flora and fauna from around the globe. Montreal’s Botanical Gardens is one of the world’s largest. www2.ville.montreal.qc.ca/jardin
PLANETARIUM
If the planets and stars is what piques your interest, Montreal’s Planetarium is a fabulous place for you to learn more about astronomy. Featuring shows that appeal to various age groups, the Planetarium is a great place for anyone young or young at heart. www.planetarium.montreal.qc.ca
INSECTARIUM
While some might jump six feet in the air at the sight of a scorpion, for others they are a world of wonder. Montreal’s Insectarium is an entire eco-museum dedicated the wonderful world of insects and is a fabulous place to learn about their essential role in the ecosystem. www2.ville.montreal.qc.ca/insectarium
BIODOME
Montreal’s Biodome is the only place in the city where you can see penguins, unusual fish, primates and exotic birds all under one roof. The experience does not stop with the animals however because the Biodome recreates five different ecosystems from around the globe. A fabulous place to take in something completely different! www2.ville.montreal.qc.ca/biodome
PARC SAFARI
If you are looking to go somewhere that you can go on a safari, see wildlife in an observatory, take in some wild rides or splash around in a water park, there is only one place in Quebec that allows you to do it all is Parc Safari.
Featuring over 600 animals from five different continents, this award-winning wildlife and adventure park offers learning experiences, excitement and fun for everyone no matter what phase of life they are in.
Parc Safari is also dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of animals in captivity so the experience is guaranteed be one of quality. For more info: www.parcsafari.com
GRANBY ZOO
For those looking for a real zoo experience, the Granby Zoo is the place to go for a fun day with the family.
Founded in 1953, the Granby Zoo features animals from all over the world and divides them into five different zoo zones: Africa, America, Asia, Oceania and “the village.” Kids can learn about these animals and their origins in a picturesque setting.
After working up a sweat from wandering around the park, folks can chill out at the Yoplait Amazoo Water Park in the wave pool, the “Lazy River” or the water games basin.
A truly wonderful experience for the entire family, more info can be found at: www.zoodegranby.com/
ACROBRANCHE
If you or your kids have ever wanted to experience an adventure from a bird’s eye point-of-view, swing from tree-to-tree like Tarzan or run through an obstacle course that is off the ground, Mont-Tremblant has an attraction for you.
Acrobranche is its own unique park that offers everything from endless zip lines from tree-to-tree, rope bridges and rock climbing. At that, this facility also has a number of activities and courses that are intended for different age groups so that kids and adults can have a great time doing activities intended for them.
Not for the faint at heart, this park offers fun for the adventurous spirit. For more info: www.acrobranche.com
- coming in next issue of the Nation: Aboriginal Tourism Issue.