10 Things to Do in Montreal in August

If you plan to visit Montreal in the summer and want to avoid the crowds of June and July, then scheduling your trip for August could be good news. This month begins to mark the end of summer, but still maintains warm, balmy temperatures with fewer tourists and more convenient prices than during the summer holiday weeks.

Some of the best things to do in Montreal in August include enjoying the Orientalys Cultural Festival, hiking along the scenic St. Lawrence River, attending the Osheaga Festival music concerts, visiting the city's museums at discounted prices, discovering the panoramic views of the city from the Grande Roue Ferris wheel and discovering nearby cities on full-day tours.

The Orientalys Cultural Festival is a vibrant and enriching experience that takes place during the first half of August. This annual event celebrates the diversity and rich heritage of Oriental cultures. For several days, Montreal's Old Port is filled with colour, music and captivating dances, transporting attendees on a fascinating journey through Eastern traditions.

By attending Orientalys, you can immerse yourself in a variety of cultural exhibits. From art and craft exhibitions to traditional cooking demonstrations, the festival offers a fascinating insight into the diverse cultures present in the Eastern region. You can learn about the unique history, customs and traditions of different countries while exploring the stalls and participating in interactive workshops.

Live music is a prominent component of Orientalys. The stages are filled with talented musicians and artists performing captivating melodies and infectious rhythms. From traditional music to contemporary fusions, musical genres and styles intertwine to create an atmosphere full of energy and excitement.

Delicious cuisine is another highlight of Orientalys. The food stalls offer a wide selection of traditional dishes, from street delicacies to exquisite feasts. The Old Port can be reached by public transport, by car or on Montreal's hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus.

Taking a St. Lawrence River cruise tour in Montreal during the month of August is an unforgettable experience. With the warm and sunny weather that characterizes this month, it is the perfect time to enjoy the magnificent sights and attractions along the river.

During the cruise you will discover some of the best natural scenery in the region. The riverbanks are characterised by lush vegetation, mountains and villages along the way. It is a unique opportunity to appreciate the scenic beauty of Quebec and admire the diversity of wildlife that inhabits the area, especially if you experience it at the end of your summer in Montreal.

On most of these experiences you will also have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the region from expert guides. You'll learn about the local traditions and historical events that have shaped the area over the years.

In addition to the breathtaking views and educational aspects, St. Lawrence River cruises also offer a delicious dining experience. Many cruises include lunches and dinners featuring a selection of regional dishes.

Attending the Osheaga Festival music concerts is an exciting and energetic experience that no music lover will want to miss. This annual festival takes place in Montreal during the first week of August and usually features a stellar line-up of national and international artists in a variety of musical genres.

Osheaga Festival concerts offer a variety of musical styles, from rock and pop to electronica and hip-hop. The most renowned artists of the moment perform on impressive stages, delivering performances full of energy and talent.

This festival will offer you an opportunity to enjoy live music at its best and experience unforgettable moments with thousands of passionate fans.

In addition to the music, the festival also offers other activities and experiences. You'll find food courts and craft stalls, and you can also relax in lounge areas to make the most of the city's warm weather, in one of the best times to visit Montreal.

Visiting the city's museums at discounted rates in August is a great way to immerse yourself in Montreal's art, history and culture in a more accessible way. During this month, which coincides with the reopening of exhibitions, many museums offer special promotions and discounts, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the incredible collections at more affordable prices.

With these offers, art and culture lovers will be able to enjoy some of Montreal's best museums. From the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses masterpieces by renowned international artists, to the Museum of Contemporary Art, which features innovative and cutting-edge exhibitions, you'll find options for all tastes and preferences.

Most museums also offer interactive and educational exhibits that provide a deeper insight into different eras and cultures. Visitors can explore history, science, archaeology and more through informative and exciting exhibits that are often recommended by expert guides during the best tours of Montreal.

Every year in August, the city becomes the epicentre of the inclusive spirit during the Divers/Cité Festival. This event is a celebration of diversity, equality and tolerance that attracts thousands of people from all over the world. It also includes parties every day after sunset, making it one of the best things to do at night in Montreal.

For one week, which usually coincides with the first of the month and in some editions starts during the last days of July, the streets of the city are filled with music, art and cultural manifestations that reflect the rich mix of identities present.

The festival promotes inclusion and throughout its four decades of existence has been a beacon of hope for those fighting for equal rights and acceptance in society. From colourful and dazzling parades to outdoor concerts and innovative art exhibits, you'll find everything at the event.

Beyond fun and entertainment, the Divers/Cité Festival also has a lasting impact on the community. It promotes tolerance and equality through educational events and workshops that foster mutual understanding and respect in a cutting-edge celebration.

The first days of August in Montreal are magical, especially when it comes to the closing of the Just for Laughs Festival. This renowned comedy event attracts the best comedic performers from around the world and offers a unique experience full of infectious laughter and unforgettable moments, which is why it's often recommended on the city's best tours.

During the closing of the Just for Laughs Festival, the streets of Montreal are filled with a festive atmosphere. Theatres and open-air venues become stages where the most talented comedians make audiences laugh out loud. From stand-up shows to improvisation and outrageous performances, there is something for all tastes and styles of comedy.

This festival not only offers a variety of comedic performances, but is also an opportunity to discover new talent. Many up-and-coming comedians get to present their talent on different stages during the festival, which adds a fresh tinge to the performances.

In addition to the live performances, the Just for Laughs Festival closing also includes special events, such as awards galas and themed parties. It's a unique opportunity to meet other comedy lovers and enjoy the camaraderie that builds around this event.

In August, Montreal is dressed in warm weather and clear skies, creating the perfect backdrop for panoramic views of the city from the Grande Roue. This impressive Ferris wheel is located in the heart of the city and offers a unique experience to appreciate the beauty and splendour of Montreal from above.

Riding La Grande Roue on a sunny August day is like stepping into a moving painting. As the wheel turns smoothly, you will find a 360° view of the city before your eyes.

From the top, you can admire the historic buildings, green parks and rivers that meander through the city, giving you a unique perspective of this cosmopolitan city.

La Grande Roue is more than just a tourist attraction. It is an invitation to discover the city's historic as well as modern architecture, to lose yourself in the details of its streets and to feel the vitality that flows through it.

A walk through Montreal's Le Plateau Mont-Royal neighbourhood in August will allow you to soak up the bohemian and vibrant essence of the city. This colourful neighbourhood is known for its cobblestone streets, Victorian houses and artsy atmosphere. During the summer, the neighbourhood also comes alive, making it an ideal destination to explore on foot and discover its charms on the best Montreal tours.

As you wander the streets of Le Plateau Mont-Royal, you'll come across a variety of cosy cafés, bars and restaurants. It's the perfect place to enjoy a charming drink on an outdoor terrace or to savour delicious food with influences from around the world. In addition, the distinctive architecture of the houses and street murals add an artistic and picturesque touch to the tour.

One of the neighbourhood's biggest attractions is the famous Lafontaine Park, a green oasis in the middle of the city. Here you can take a relaxing stroll along the tree-lined paths, have a picnic on the lawn or enjoy an open-air theatre show. You can even join private guided tours or evening tours of the site.

In addition to its architectural charm and green spaces, Le Plateau Mont-Royal is also home to a wealth of independent shops and art galleries. Whether you're looking for vintage clothing, local crafts or contemporary art, this neighbourhood offers something for everyone who loves shopping and artistic expression.

Exploring Montreal's nightlife in the Gay Village during Pride month in August is an experience full of joy, diversity and celebration. This vibrant neighbourhood becomes the epicentre of the LGBTQ+ community and welcomes thousands of people who gather to show their support and celebrate equal rights. The streets are filled with colourful lights, rainbow flags and a festive atmosphere that invites everyone to join the party.

During Pride month, the Gay Village comes alive with a wide range of events and activities. From colourful parades and music festivals to drag shows and themed parties, the bars and nightclubs take centre stage and shine even brighter than if you visit Montreal during Christmas, when the city lights up with eve decorations.

Walking the streets of Gay Village on an August night will immerse you in a sea of lights and sounds. Restaurants and cafes offer delicious food and creative cocktails to satisfy every palate.

Pride month at Gay Village is not only a celebration, but also an opportunity to reflect on the struggle for community rights and promote inclusion.

Taking a full day trip from Montreal in August, when the weather is at its best, will give you the opportunity to explore great Canadian cities like Ottawa and Quebec. These two options offer a perfect combination of history, culture and natural beauty.

First of all, if you plan to visit Ottawa from Montreal, you'll be able to see a must-see site. With its imposing Parliament, majestic Rideau Canal and ByWard Market, the city offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. August is also the perfect time to catch the nightly light show at the Legislative Palace, known as the Mosaika.

If you're planning a visit to Quebec, the jewel in the crown of Canada's French-speaking province, you'll find one of the country's most traditional sites. Its historic old town will take you back to colonial times with its cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings and magnificent fortifications, which you can enjoy on full-day excursions from Montreal.

Both cities offer a wide range of outdoor activities. Both Ottawa and Quebec have beautiful parks and gardens where you can enjoy a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Temperatures in Montreal during the month of August are pleasant and warm, making it an ideal time to visit the city. During this month, the weather usually ranges between 20° and 25°, providing ideal conditions for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the attractions in more pleasant temperatures than if you visit Montreal in June.

The weather is also ideal for strolling the streets, visiting the parks and gardens, and even enjoying water activities on the St. Lawrence River. Overall, August offers a sunny Montreal skyline, making it an ideal time to discover all that the city has to offer.

Montreal experiences a high tourist influx during this month, although it is lower than the crowds in June and July. In addition, August marks the beginning of many of the special events in the city, so there may be increased numbers of tourists during certain dates.

While the influx of tourists can result in higher demand at popular venues, it also creates a vibrant and exciting atmosphere, with a wide variety of cultural, dining and entertainment activities to enjoy in the city.

When it comes to prices, keep in mind that Montreal tends to be a relatively affordable tourist destination compared to other major Canadian cities. However, during the month of August, as it is part of the summer season, it is possible that some prices may increase slightly in certain sectors, such as accommodation and tourist services.

In general, prices for food and drinks in restaurants and cafés may vary depending on the location and category, but you can find options for all budgets, even at similar costs to those you will find if you visit Montreal in winter, although you should pay attention when searching and organising your itinerary.

While temperatures are not sweltering in Montreal, August marks one of the hottest months of the year in the city, so I recommend packing the following:

• Lightweight T-shirts
• Lightweight trousers
• Comfortable shoes
• Lightweight coat
• Windbreaker
• Hiking boots
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Light socks