Best time to go to Montreal

Christmas Parades & Events 2024

Noël is a special and magical time in the largest city of Québec

Dates: late November–late December

Christmas Parades & Events
Christmas Parades & Events
Christmas Parades & Events
Le défilé du Père Noël / Santa Claus Parade Montréal
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Santa Claus Parade/Défilé du Père Noël (November 25, 2023)

Montréal Christmas is indeed magical—the streets and parks are illuminated and there are plenty of events, activities, and delicious foods to take in. You must be sure to not miss the annual Santa Claus Parade, which has been held since 1925. Le Défilé du Père Noël is observed by thousands of delighted kids waiting to see Santa Claus. The audience of this parade tends to reach 300,000 people! Around 20 floats proceed along René-Lévesque Boulevard between Guy St & Saint-Urbain St. The parade is usually held at 11 am in late November.

Noël sur l’Avenue (November–December 2023)

Throughout the month of December, the Avenue du Mont-Royal gets adorned with festive decorations to enchant the many Montrealers and visitors who participate in holiday festivities every year. The month-long celebrations begin with the popular Marche de Noël aux flambeaux (Mont-Royal Christmas Torchlight Parade), musical performances, and fireworks. The detailed programme is usually available mid-November on the Mont-Royal website.

Breakfast with Santa (December 2, 2023)

The Hudson Santa Claus Parade gives you the opportunity to have a hot chocolate with Santa Claus at the Stephen F. Shaar Community Centre on 394 Main Road of Hudson, about an hour drive from Montreal city centre. Breakfast with Santa is scheduled from 8:30 am to 10 am on a Saturday in early December. Visits with Santa and photo opportunities are available too. Visit the Town of Hudson's official website to get more details. See External Resources below.

Christmas Mass at the Notre-Dame Basilica (December 24, 2023)

Another site worth visiting during Christmas time is the Notre Dame Basilica in Old Montréal. The church is ancient and beautiful and a Christmas Mass here is an experience in itself. Make sure to buy tickets in advance for either of two Christmas Masses at 9:30 pm or 11:59 pm on the Notre-Dame Basilica's official website (see External Resources below).

Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin