Your festive winter guide: the best festivals accessible by public transit

Winter is officially rolling out its white carpet across the metropolitan area, bringing the first snowflakes and sparkling lights along with it. This means it’s time to grab your hats and mittens and embrace the joy of the season! There are winter festivals galore on Montreal’s North and South shore, offering a variety of fun activities aimed at warming hearts and lifting spirits. Whether you love the charm of Christmas markets, or prefer outdoor party vibes, there's so much to explore and celebrate. And the good news is that all of these magical moments are within reach thanks to public transit. Get ready for unforgettable, accessible, and eco-friendly winter adventures!

Les Rendez-Vous Polaires at the Sainte-Catherine RécréoParc: a unique winter festival

Discover a magical world of snow and ice, with activities for all ages. Admire breathtaking ice sculptures, enjoy children's games, and more.

Plan your visit

How to get there: exo offers convenient bus and train routes. Easily plan your trip for a stress-free experience.

Practical tips: Entrance is free and you’ll find several dining options on site.

Highlights

• Ice sculptures: admire the work of local and international artists.
• Family workshops: participate in creative and educational activities.

Did you know?

The festival is also a cultural hub, celebrating the history of Sainte-Catherine with exhibitions and shows.

Féérie in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville: how does an enchanting winter wonderland sound?

La Féérie in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville returns every year with a double format. Start at the magical city centre at Place du Village, where you’ll find a local market and a giant tree, then make your way to the Féérie Lac du Village where you’ll find a traditional Christmas market, free activities, and plenty of holiday spirit.

Plan your visit

How to get there: use exo’s services for a relaxed and eco-friendly journey to the festivities. Planning your trip is easy.

Practical tips: entrance is free and you’ll find several dining options on site.

Highlights

• Various activities: local kiosks, kid’s shows, a mini farm, and snow sculptures await you. And don't miss Santa Claus’ arrival and the lighting of the tree.
• Christmas Market: discover nearly 80 exhibitors offering unique products, plus enjoy food trucks and delicious snacks.

Did you know?

The city encourages active and eco-friendly modes of transportation, like exo.

The Feu et Glace Festival in Repentigny: heat things up with cool winter adventures!

Join us for the Feu et Glace Festival: the biggest winter gathering in the Lanaudière region! With dazzling fireworks, thrilling tube slides, and more, it's a party for people of all ages.

Plan your visit

How to get there? Simplify your trip with exo. Discover our easy itineraries for a stress-free journey.

Practical tips: entrance is free and you’ll find several dining options on site.

Highlights

• Activities galore: hiking, skating along the river, mascots, and giant games await you.
• Fireworks and more: marvel at the pyrotechnic shows and thrilling entertainment.
• Ice rink and slides: embrace the joys of winter with skating and tubing.

Did you know?

The Feu et Glace Festival offers free outdoor shows with something for everyone. Want more? Get a passport for paid activities so you can fully enjoy the festivities.

The Julievernales in Sainte-Julie and Showfrette in Beloeil: two festivals, two ways to have fun

Discover the unique charm of the Julievernales and the vibrant atmosphere of Showfrette, both offering a range of winter celebrations and experiences. First, you can immerse yourself in the festive vibes of the Julievernales in Sainte-Julie, with games for kids, creative workshops, and more. Then, check out Showfrette in Beloeil, for a combination of culture, light, and winter entertainment that can’t be missed.

Plan your visit

How to get there: exo makes getting to the festivals as enjoyable as the destination itself. Ready to plan your trip?

Practical tips: entrance is free and you’ll find several dining options on site.

Highlights

• Family entertainment: enjoy a range of activities, ideal for families looking to have fun together in a cool winter setting.
• Shows and lights: prepare to be amazed by light shows and captivating artistic performances.

Did you know?

These festivals are pillars of the South Shore, offering fun-filled experiences for the whole family.

Gastronomic delights and Christmas markets

The holiday season on Montreal's south and north shores lights up with traditional Christmas markets and food festivals. You’re invited to discover local flavours and regional crafts, while enjoying the festive feeling of the holiday season.

Each Christmas market gives you a taste of the region, offering a range of local products, handmade treats and unique gift ideas. The food festivals showcase local cuisine with tastings, cooking workshops with local chefs, and more.

For more on the complete experience, be sure to check out our article on all of the Christmas markets.

Winter festivities in the greater Montreal area are wonderful way to celebrate and enjoy in a truly magical setting. Whether you're looking for snowy adventures, culinary delights, or simply some family fun, Montreal's north and south shores offer a wonderful winter experience for everyone.

And to make your winter festival experience even more enjoyable, don't forget to plan your trips with the Chrono app. Whether it's to check public transit schedules or to find the most convenient routes, Chrono is the best way to easily navigate the metropolitan area. We'll see you soon!