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Free marshmallows around the firepit all winter at this Old Montreal spot — musical performances included

Old Montreal gets a cool make-over this winter thanks to these cozy outdoor stations and rest areas.

Laura Osborne
Written by
Laura Osborne
Editor, Time Out Canada
Old Montreal
Photograph: GGiguere |SDC Vieux-Montréal
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Old Montreal is bringing some extra winter magic to the city this season.

Now that the coldest weather on the planet is behind us, it’s time to celebrate winter (again).

Between the major expansion of Old Montreal’s iconic floating spa and Heated Rivalry trivia nights, Montreal is heating things up—and this one deserves a top spot on your radar.

The city’s historic district has launched the Saint-Paul Ouest Winter Station, along with four winter rest areas.

Check out: Best things to do Downtown when it's freezing cold

We’re talking about fire pits, live music, storytelling sessions and (wait for it) free marshmallows.

SDC Vieux-Montréal
Photograph: Sara Megan

The winter stations and rest areas sprinkled throughout Old Montreal are designed to make the neighbourhood more welcoming in the cold months, encourage visits, and keep people moving around the city.

Read more: Where to stay in Montreal

SDC Vieux-Montréal
Photograph: Sara Megan

Accessible day and night until March, these spaces are perfect for warming up, socializing, and soaking in the charm of the historic district.

SDC Vieux-Montréal
Photograph: SDC Vieux-Montréal

When is the Saint-Paul Ouest Winter Station open?

Head to the Saint-Paul Ouest Winter Station from January 8 to March 15, 2026.

Located in front of the Customs House along Saint-Paul Ouest, the winter station is decked out with bright lights, cozy furniture, and outdoor fire pits.

SDC Vieux-Montréal
Photograph: SDC Vieux-Montréal

Here’s the winter programming:

Fire pits lit Thursday to Sunday, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Live music Thursday to Sunday, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Winter storytelling sessions by a local storyteller (presented by Guidatour) on Saturdays, 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Marshmallow giveaways on Saturdays, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., perfect for roasting over the outdoor fires.

SDC Vieux-Montréal
Photograph: GGiguere | SDC Vieux-Montréal

Where are the Old Montreal Winter Rest Areas?

These winter rest areas are designed for maximum comfort with illuminated furniture, and two of the four sites will also feature outdoor fire pits active Thursday to Sunday, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. (weather permitting).

Check out the four cozy spots throughout Old Montreal:

Place Jacques-Cartier

North plaza of Marché Bonsecours, 350 Saint-Paul East

Plaza of the former Caserne No. 1, 355 Saint-Pierre Street

Place d’Armes

SDC Vieux-Montréal
Photograph: SDC Vieux-Montréal

For more information about Old Montreal’s winter programming, click here.

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