Our must-do winter activities to enjoy the cold season in Montreal
At NOPé, we don't spend the winter locked up binge-watching series. For us, winter means sports, gastronomic, and cultural activities, both in nature and the city! To help you embrace the cold season and make the most of it, we present our list of activities to do in Montreal this winter. Because at NOPé, winter happens outdoors!
FOR SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS
Ice Skating
Montreal boasts numerous outdoor skating rinks that open in winter. One of the most popular is the Old Port skating rink, offering a stunning view of the St. Lawrence River and the city. The rink at Lafontaine Park, illuminated in the evening, and Beaver Lake on top of Mount Royal are also worth visiting.
Cross-Country Skiing or Snowshoeing
The city offers several parks and trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Among them are Maisonneuve Park, Jean-Drapeau Park, Angrignon Park, and Frédéric-Back Park.
Sledding
Whether in one of the city's parks, on a crazy carpet, or at Mount Royal with a tube, Montreal offers several places to let loose and sled down the slopes! No matter what winter sport you enjoy, our hoods are ideal for feeling free as the air while staying protected from the cold and wind.
FOR FOODIES
Winter is the perfect season to walk and explore the city's neighborhoods. Put on your hat, mittens, and you'll be more than ready to enjoy the walk with a hot drink in hand!
Warm Up with a Coffee, Hot Chocolate, or Other Comforting Beverage
Montreal has hundreds of cafes ready to welcome you and warm you up during your long (or short) winter walks. Some of our favorites include Méchants Pinsons on Laurier Avenue, Café Parvis on Mayor Street, and Pastel Rita on Saint-Laurent Boulevard.
Indulge in a Heartwarming Dish
Montreal is known for its gastronomy. In winter, several culinary festivals take place. Think of the famous Poutine Week: as the name suggests, it's a week dedicated to this beloved Quebec dish. It's also the perfect time to try new versions of this classic, specially created by chefs from dozens of restaurants in the city! We also think of the Happening Gourmand in Old Montreal, which allows us to try the best restaurants in this neighborhood at a friendly price, whether for dinner, brunch, or aperitif.
FOR CULTURE ENTHUSIASTS
This winter, let yourself be inspired by Montreal's rich cultural scene while staying warm with our lined mittens, toque, and fleece neck tubes.
Holiday Markets to Get Into the Spirit!
During the holiday season, Christmas markets pop up in Montreal. We particularly love the Grand Christmas Market on the Esplanade of the Quartier des Spectacles for its festive decorations, delicious treats, and artisanal products. If you're really a fan of the holiday season, be sure to check out the Village de Noël and Noël dans le Parc as well!
Dance the Night Away at Igloofest
Electronic music fans won't want to miss Igloofest on the Jacques-Cartier Quay in the Old Port every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night in January and February. This outdoor music festival brings together international DJs under the starry sky of the city, creating an electrifying atmosphere!
Montreal Shines Bright
As the largest winter festival in the city, Montreal en Lumière ticks all the boxes by bringing together gastronomy, arts, and culture in a breathtaking outdoor activity site. You'll find a multitude of artistic, gastronomic, and musical events under the lights at Place des Festivals. If you're interested in light installations, explore the luminous and interactive art route, Luminothérapie, on Sainte-Catherine Street.
NOPÉ IS YOUR ALLY FOR AN ADVENTURE-FILLED WINTER IN THE CITY!
It's always possible to bring out your natural side, both in the city and in the region! At NOPé, it's a pleasure to accompany you in creating memories as warm as our winter accessories. We have what you need to make the most of Montreal's winter, whether for your sports, gourmet, or cultural activities. Have a great season! Enjoy it to the fullest!