Montreal Weekender: August 29 to September 1, 2013

THURSDAY
If you want to see one of the most raw documentaries to ever come out of Montreal, this is it. The Peace Park premiere takes place tonight for free and will include other fun stuff like a BBQ by Bob Le Chef, skateboarding contest, including a best trick contest, a hip-hop and reggae show, tons of giveaways and more. Come support this local movie and learn about Peace Park’s history.

Take a ride and check out St. Laurent Boulevard’s newest resto gem that just opened its doors. If you’re looking for fresh, tasty local ingredients and a great vibe, this is the spot. Sel Gras is made up of some of the finest chefs in the city, so you know it’s got to be damn good. Go say hello and leave those tummies empty before you go!

FRIDAY
Ready to rockabilly down? The Red, Hot & Blue Rockabilly Festival goes all weekend and is totally worth checking out if you’re in the mood for something different and funky. This is Montreal’s largest Rockabilly festival and, aside from the fun music from Lee Rocker (from the Stray Cats) & The Lustre Kings, there will also be a burlesque show. Don’t forget to gel that side part!

In the need of some Cuban heat? This is your chance to leave the city and check out the Autentica Fiesta Cubana in the Valley of Saint-Sauveur, where a real Cuban party will be going down, Discover a Cuban paradise in the Georges-Filion Parkm where rich Cuban culture, tradition Cuban dances, mojitos, music and much, much more will be on site.

SATURDAY
Shop, shop, shop! Montreal’s major and last of the summer Mont-Royal sidewalk sale is happening this week; bargain hunters, get your wallet’s ready! It’s a great opportunity to find small wonders and end the summer in style. It is also a perfect time to come and enjoy the many terraces and music acts stretching along over two kilometres along the Avenue. Fun in the sun and a perfect activity to do with your crew or family!

Continuing with the new resto openings, we recently raved about H4C in St. Henri, and tonight would be the best time to heck out this new architectural beauty located in a historic post office. You’ll find nothing but fresh, local ingredients, along with great crowds, lovely staff and, of course, the space itself is something to experience.

SUNDAY
Oh, foodies, here we go! Burger Week officially takes off today. From September 1-7, 31 restaurants across the city will create a one-of-a-kind burger priced at $10 with a mission to be crowned as the best burger in Canada. The interactive food festival lets food enthusiasts vote online for their favourite burger. Delicious and unique burgers have been created especially for Burger Week and can be enjoyed at each of the participating restaurants!

Come celebrate the end of summer with music at the Art POP fundraiser on Sunday, Sept. 1. Enjoy sweet treats, photography by Marus Racek, participate in an interactive art activity, and listen to local live bands, including Harvest Soon + Holobody and Daniel Isaiah. Proceeds go toward financing their 2013 programming. Event runs from 2pm – 6pm at Espace POP.  

Top photo courtesy Burger Week