Montreal Weekender: October 24 through 27, 2013

THURSDAY
It’s the last week to catch La Ronde’s annual fright fest. Running until October 27th, the spooky series offers creepy haunted houses by the names of District 510, Death Row, Massacre Museum and the new doll’s house. If that’s not freaky enough, you can visit and meet disturbing creatures in the vampire lair and the cemetery. Still not scared? A group of zombies will be happy to welcome you in their new lounge on the park grounds. A slew of other activities and food stations will open as well – a great outing for friends!

In the mood for some art? Pop by the chic Vic Park to check out the talented Shari Alec Godlberg’s photography. The vernissage is a 5 a 7 and will feature her wonderful images alongside appetizers from the delicious Park Restaurant, a great crowd and cocktails… of course.

Get ready to shop! La Braderie de mode québécoise, fall’s hottest shopping go-to, returns for its 38th edition starting today at Bonsecours Market. What can you expect? Over 130 Quebec fashion brands including Mackage, Rudsak and more are selling their surplus inventory, unique pieces and samples at discounted prices up to 80%. Thirty thousand visitors and fashionistas are expected to pass through and splurge. As always, admission is free.

FRIDAY
If you can sneak out during the day today, make sure you go see former New York City mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani, who will be in town today sharing his thoughts and insights during a business luncheon taking place at noon at the Sheraton Montreal Hotel as part of the Board of Trade’s “Bell International Leaders” series. Mr. Giuliani will speak about leadership and the challenges facing the world’s major cities, and will then answer questions from the Honourable Michael M. Fortier, Vice-Chairman of the Board of RBC Capital Markets. 

After its great success last year, the Starlight Halloween Soiree is back, and this time travelling back in time. The evening of the festive Halloween costume gala will be held on Friday, October 25, 2013 at Time Supperclub. Upon arrival, guests will travel in time through the costumes, sets and music cults from various decades of the 20th century. Expect a red carpet, DJ, a decadent candy bar and a fabulous open bar. Proceeds from the event will be used to fund pediatric programs helping entire families to cope with the pain, fear and loneliness caused by diseases to children, and to help more than 5,000 children monthly in Quebec.

SATURDAY
Tonight, an audience of 2000 people will meet at the Maison symphonique to take part in another OSM extravaganza, this time bringing together the worlds of Beethoven and Frank Zappa. The concert will be followed by a performance by Misstress Barbara, a DJ of international repute, in the homes of the Maison symphonique. As part of this concert, 600 young professionals will participate in the 4th edition of the benefit event and enjoy a VIP experience throughout the evening. All proceeds raised through this fundraiser will support the educational programs of the OSM, so come join them and this wonderful cause in an evening of old meets new!

Still haven’t seen the beautiful Gardens of Light? Make sure you schedule it in since the series is ending in November. Discover the Japanese Garden enhanced by a fine and subtle lighting design and the Chinese Garden with The Magic of Lanterns and its emblematic traditional coloured lanterns. At dusk, beautiful pathways emerge in the Gardens of Light, pathways full of contrasts, mystery and magic. A tip? Go early; the crowds have been record-breaking this year.

SUNDAY
Want to travel through an immersive musical experience? Music is at the heart of the ‘Splendore A Venezia’ exhibit at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montreal, allowing visitors to wonder and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of opulent Venetian splendours where art and music are intertwined and complement each other.  A free audioguide gives visitors an opportunity to enjoy musical accompaniment and listen to one or more musical pieces directly related to a work of art or a particular instrument. A truly beautiful exhibition.

The International Travel and Tourism Show ends today and is a great way to spend your Sunday. More than 100 countries are represented either by their tourism offices, by tour operators, or by travel agents. This event has become the meeting place for professionals, the industry in general, and all those with a passion for travel. There will be a number of specialists on site to provide you with the necessary information to prepare your next trip and guide you for your next YP getaway!

 

Cover Image Courtesy Of: Societe Perrier/Starlight Soiree