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16 must-attend events in Montréal this spring 2026

Discover the unmissable events happening in Montréal this spring from festivals and concerts to family-friendly activities

Isa Tousignant
Written by
Isa Tousignant
Contributor, Montreal
McCord Stewart
Photograph: Roger Aziz
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Spring in Montréal is a "superseason".

It’s a rebirth. It’s a thaw. It’s an out-and-proud return to life outdoors after months inside, which means terraces, sports, parades, festivals, and culture for days. 

Whether you're exploring the blooming Botanical Garden, hiking up Mount Royal Park for city views, and visiting the vibrant Jean-Talon or Atwater markets, here's how to make the most of spring in Montreal.

Check out: Best festivals and events in Montreal for 2026

Lasso Montréal
Photograph: Eva Blue | Lasso Montréal

1. Amaze at some flying dancers

March 26–29 | La TOHU
WOW: World of Words is an immersive, high-flying collision of dance, circus, and sound. Performers swing through hammocks, bounce off sculptural balloons, and build rhythm with their own bodies—a spectacle you won’t forget.

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2. Dance to the thunder of Manifesto

April 1–4 | Montreal
Australian choreographer Stephanie Lake brings Manifesto to life: nine dancers and nine drummers in a percussion-driven, high-energy spectacle that will leave you breathless.


3. Spend a night with David Sedaris

April 7 | Théâtre Maisonneuve
Laugh-out-loud personal tales and razor-edged observations from the humourist himself. Sedaris combines cringe-worthy stories with relatable humor for an evening of unforgettable storytelling.


4. Big Fashion Sale by Quebec Designers

April 9–12 | Marché Bonsecours
A must for fashion lovers: hunt for local labels, emerging talent, and rare chances to meet designers while scoring unique pieces at unbeatable prices.


5. Star Wars: A New Hope – Live with Orchestra

April 10–11 | Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier
Relive the classic film with a live FILMharmonique Orchestra performing John Williams’s legendary score. Epic immersion for cinephiles and music lovers alike.


6. Plural Contemporary Art Fair

April 11–13 | Grand Quai du Port de Montréal
Over 80 galleries showcase bold, current works from Montréal and abroad. Browse, discover, and even invest in standout pieces at this citywide contemporary art fair.


7. Seeker at Centaur Theatre

April 15 onward | Centaur Theatre
Two exes reunite under military pressure in a gripping sci-fi theatre experience. Drama, mystery, and cosmic consequences collide in a show that blends intimacy with suspense.


8. Harlem Globetrotters

April 17–18 | Bell Centre
Expect gravity-defying dunks, trick shots, and over-the-top comedy with these basketball legends. Audience participation is part of the fun!


9. Les Grands Ballets Canadiens – The Blue Hour

April 23–26 | Montreal
A poetic double bill capturing the fleeting, magical moment between day and night. Choreographed by Anne Plamondon and Vanesa Garcia-Ribala Montoya, it’s a visual feast for dance lovers.


10. Défi sportif AlterGo

April 24 | Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard
Thousands of athletes gather to celebrate adapted sports in this inspiring, inclusive festival that brings together both local and international participants.


11. Art Souterrain

April 25–May 10 | Underground City
Explore a sprawling contemporary gallery for free. Navigate Montreal’s Underground City while discovering striking contemporary works in unexpected locations.


12. Montreal Museums Month

May | Citywide
Behind-the-scenes tours, special programming, and plenty of free admission at institutions like the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts, Pointe-à-Callière, and McCord Stewart Museum. Don’t miss the massive open-house day.


13. Piknic Électronik

May weekends | Parc Jean-Drapeau
Summer grooves officially kick off with this electronic music picnic series. World-class DJs, local talent, and a full day of family-friendly fun.


14. F1 Canadian Grand Prix

May 22–24 | Downtown Montréal
Feel the roar of engines and the adrenaline of world-class racing as Montréal transforms into a high-octane playground for drivers and fans alike.


15. Cirque du Soleil – ECHO

May 23–June | Old Port
Cirque du Soleil’s latest Big Top spectacle fuses humans, animals, and the planet in a high-flying journey of wonder, consequence, and connection.


16. Tour de l’Île

May 31 | Citywide
Montreal’s ultimate bike tour returns! Streets closed to traffic, scenic routes, live music, food trucks, and community vibes—perfect for riders of all levels.

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