It’s the coldest February in 20 years. Yes, you heard us Montreal.
And it’s hit us so hard that leaving Netflix (and our couch) behind has become more than a chore and something closer to torture.
The cure?
Welcome to Montreal en Lumiere.
One of the world’s largest winter festivals is back and we couldn’t be more excited. For its 16th edition, EN LUMIÈRE is bringing, as always, a unique, fun, and exciting artistic program. From theatre to live DJs, from dance to amazing culinary experiences, this winter celebration has something for everyone.
So as always, we’re here to help and highlight the must-dos during this two-week period of epic activities and mouth-watering food.
The Wall Theater Experience
This is taking place tonight so book your space now. This is all about Pink Floyd’s The Wall, it’s a production that brings the film to life as a vivid visual and aural experience.
Chocolate Montreal Tour
Yes this is as delicious as it sounds. Exploring the know-how of Montreal’s chocolate makers featuring a demonstration in a cooking school and a visit to a chocolate factory. Along the way you’ll be entertained with historical and cultural anecdotes about Montreal and its local culinary scene. Sweet indeed.
Cercle Bell
Brand new to Montreal en Lumiere, this illuminated spot dominated by the huge glassed-in windowed box in the heart of the Place des Festivals is very hard to miss. The cool part? A gigantic interactive illuminated Ping-Pong game where you can walk run or jump from one pastille to another, turning the lights on and off while changing the appearance and form of the piece.
Nuit Blanche
By far our favourite part of the festival, but be warned – this is only for night owls. One of the wildest winter nights of the year featuring culture and the arts takes over three main Montreal hoods including the Plateau, Old Montreal, and Downtown. With over 200 unique activities including an indoor swimming party with DJs, the night is yours to discover in any way you crave.
The RBC Zip-Line
Not afraid of heights and looking for a thrill? This new addition features a zip line propelled by Arbraska featuring lighting and sound while you soar from west to east, from De Bleury Street almost all the way to St. Urbain Street.
The Milk Urban Slide
For another thrill – but on the lighter side – the always-popular Urban Slide will once again thrill winter soldiers right in the heart of the outdoor site. Brace yourself for a 110-metre wintry ride that calls for the perfect instagram photo opp.
Garden of Light Gourmet Pit Stop
A lovely and very popular gourmet pit stop at the corner of De Bleury and Ste. Catherine Streets awaits with its gigantic illuminated installations and containers hosting food counters such as a giant BBQ, assorted meatballs and dumplings, tartiflette, a fish smokehouse, tarte au sucre while swedish log stoves, a storyteller, ice sculpting, a bar, and plenty of entertainment will keep the enjoyment going.
Books and Food – Enough said
Montreal en Lumiere is innovating once again with a brand-new fair dedicated to books that showcase cuisine and gastronomy. Featuring hundreds of books, novelties, stimulating get-togethers, and unique finds, this event will make any bibliophile smile.
The Festival of Cheese
I hate cheese….said NO ONE EVER. Back for its 9th edition at the Grande-Place, this is your chance to meet the cheese makers of Quebec. You can taste the Québécois “classics” and make surprising discoveries while also indulging in excellent wines and beers.
Switzerland in Photos
Can’t fly to Switzerland? This is the next best thing. Discover a Swiss photo exhibit that will stir your desire to travel after taking in the giant luminous cubes on the Place des Festivals housing these magnificent photos.
Swiss Ferris Wheel
Always a classic at the festival, the Swiss Ferris Wheel, erected right in the middle of Ste. Catherine Street (in front of the MAC Museum) never disappoints and provides the perfect opportunity for that first sneaky kiss (wink, wink).
For more information on Montreal en Lumiere and to check out the full schedule visit their website.
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