Montreal hosts a wide variety of events all summer long! From the Just for Laughs Festival to Osheaga, there’s something for everyone. But let’s talk about the smaller festivals and activities taking place in our beautiful city this summer...

Arts

The Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM) will perform at La Virée classique, a festival aimed at bringing classical music beyond concert halls and making it accessible to people of all ages. Numerous performances—most of them free—will take place throughout the city from July 18 to August 8, 2026.

From August 20 to 23, 2026, the 26th edition of the M.A.D. Festival will take place at Place des Festivals. This event gives many fashion designers the opportunity to showcase their creations and talent. The M.A.D. Festival even allows attendees to chat with the designers and learn more about their art.

The ProgStorm Festival is Canada’s first progressive metal festival. It will take place from August 21 to 23, 2026, for its second edition at Club Soda. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover a new musical style or see some of your favorite artists in concert!

Culture

The Noise Not Borders festival will take place over the weekend of July 31–August 1, 2026. During this event, several punk and electronic artists from the LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities will perform concerts to showcase their music and bring everyone in attendance together. The festival aims to ensure that anyone, regardless of gender identity, religion, or sexual orientation, can enjoy music that lets them let loose and move to the beat.

The Festival international Présence autochtone (FIPA) is a festival that showcases contemporary Indigenous artists from here and abroad. From August 4 to 13, 2026, it will feature films, concerts, and several exhibitions. There are also many activities available for everyone. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover and learn more about the arts of these cultures so rich in history!

Sports

From August 19 to 23, 2026, the Parc Jean-Drapeau will welcome the biggest stars of beach volleyball for the Beach Pro Tour – Elite 16. This event not only features the world’s best beach volleyball players, but also top DJs and a variety of dining options to ensure you have the best day possible in an electrifying atmosphere. Don’t miss this tournament!

The highly anticipated National Bank Open tennis tournament will take place from August 1 to 13, 2026. This year, the men’s competition will be held in Montreal, while the women’s competition will take place in Toronto. It’s a great opportunity to watch professional players in action and spend a day in the heart of the city.

Food and Gastronomy

The Orientalys Festival, taking place in Montreal’s Old Port from August 13 to 16, 2026, is a festival celebrating the diverse cultures of the Middle East. While learning about the arts and history of these cultures, visitors will have the opportunity to sample traditional dishes, each one more delicious than the last. It will undoubtedly be a memorable event!

This year, the Grand PoutineFest de Montréal takes place from July 22 to August 2 at the Old Port. During this festival, you can sample many varieties of poutine, from classic poutine to confit duck poutine and even macaroni and cheese poutine. In addition, several activities and entertainment events will be held on-site. An event not to be missed!

From August 7 to 16, 2026, Little Italy transforms into a true festival hub to celebrate ItalFest. This festival showcases many aspects of Italian culture. Concerts, parades, opera, and much more will take place during this event. But don’t forget the delicious tastings of classic Italian dishes! It’s sure to be a memorable experience!

Montreal is such a lively city in the summer—so don’t hesitate to explore new things and enjoy all these wonderful festivals! Have a great summer!