The city of Montreal is know for festivals and international events. Usually when you think of the Montreal Jazz Festival, the Just for Laughs comedy festival or any of the numerous festivals that take place in the warm summer months. It shouldn’t be surprising to hear that the province who has a winter festival that started in 1894 (and is still ongoing) likes winter festivals! One of the biggest winter festivals in Montreal is the ‘Fête des Neiges’ which translates to ‘Snow Festival’.
In it’s 37th year, the Fête des Neiges is a family-friendly outdoor winter festival that takes place four weekends at the end of January and the beginning of February. This year, for the first time the Fête des neiges de Montréal will be held at Espace 67, Parc Jean-Drapeau’s new event playground. This new space will have 16 tube-sliding lanes including ‘Super Slide’ for those wanting more of a thrill!
As far as festivals go this one is quite affordable. For around $10 for adults and $6 for kids you get entrance into the festival and access to a wide variety of activities including sliding, watching snow sculpture carving, play hockey or even try archery.
Tip: Buy your tickets online for a reduced price.
One of the unique things about the festival is that you can skate along a 300 metre long pathway through the woods along the Saint Lawrence River. You can bring your own skates or rent a pair on site!
Some of the things that my kids are looking forward to is the Ninjas Huskies course, snow castle challenge and the Cirque Éloize Alpine Circuit. Me, I’m looking forward to snowshoeing and the mulled wine.
If you want something for the whole family, check out the La Presse sports zone where you can enter your own team in a game of hockey… no on ice, just with boots.
If your not into sporing events there is always the food village, numerous musicians or you can do some shopping at the numerous artisans offering their home made jewelry and products.
Remember to dress warmly because it does get VERY cold in January and February in Montreal. You may also want to check their website to see if the weather conditions may alter any events or activities.
Tip: looking to warm up? Bring your own reusable cup and Recyc-Quebec will offer you a free coffee or hot chocolate at La Buvette in the Faim de Loup area where the food is located.
Fête des Neiges
What: Snow Festival (Fête des Neiges)
Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau, Chemin du Tour de l’isle, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H3C 4W7
When: Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. January 18 – February 9. 2020
Check out their website for more details or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
