Along with whatever we find under a tree or inside a really uncomfortable sock, this weekend we are being given the gift of another Winter Solstice; the longest night of the year. And if there’s any stretch of year when we could use a bit more time – whether it’s time on or time off – it’s the week before Christmas.
But we know that you know where to find the busiest malls, the most congested roads and the most questionable extended family members. So let us take care of the other stuff. You know, the fun stuff.
Your weekend starts now, Montreal…
THURSDAY
Shopping, fashion, and party? Is this even a question? Welcome to the launch party for Mademoiselle Jules new blog and huge blowout pre-boxing day sale at TNT – a 2-in-1 that’s pretty much irresistible. The event will be catered by Miss Pret A Manger and will also showcase a few pop ups by some amazing brands including Gypsy05 by Show and Tell, Shop Bettyray, The Right Hand Gal, and more. RSVP here to attend.
For something more artsy, our friends at POP Montreal are throwing the party of the year to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Cinema L’Amour theatre, the 10th anniversary of uRockaoke (live band Karaoke), the middle of Hannukah, and the last few days before Christmas. POP Montreal will be lighting the candles, singing, and celebrating it all on one special night in a beautiful old hall that was built for Yiddish theatre and that still screens old school porn. Yes we said old porn. So if your curiosity is tickling you silly, come sing your favourite songs, drink, and dance the night away. Just don’t get too excited…
FRIDAY
Planning to venture to shop mega centre Dix30 to finish off your holiday shopping spree? Then make sure you pop by Cafe du Théâtre, a brand new French brasserie offering some of France’s greatest delicacies, including tartares, braises, bouillabaisses, and pastries. The space, almost 7,000 sq. ft., can accommodate up to 170 guests and its two floors are decked out in stunning décor. Customers looking for fine products from France can visit the Cafe’s boutique, where they will find cups, jams, terrines, and upscale oils for sale.
Your holidays wouldn’t be complete without The Nutcracker. Created in 1964 for Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montreal, this adaptation of the Hoffmann tale by Quebec dancer choreographer Fernand Nault is among the most beautiful in existence. The Nutcracker is performed by some one hundred dancers, with sumptuous sets designed by Peter Horne, scintillating costumes by François Barbeau, and lighting by Nicholas Cernovitch. This is the perfect holiday treat for anyone and is sure to get even the biggest Grinch in the spirit.
Mount Royal Avenue is shining with holiday cheer and lights for their annual Noel Sur L’Avenue. From elves on bikes and carriage rides, to 100 illuminated comic book images tacked onto lamp posts, the list of things to see are endless so we’ll let you do the leg work and create your own must-sees.
SATURDAY
In keeping with the tradition of Montreal festivals, Merry Montreal’s Wacky Street Performers will surprise you with some magical moments. Head to the Old Port between noon and 6 pm and Meet Mister Presents, witness the Tanned Skiers’ zany conversation, or listen to the Trapper’s tales from the past. Basically, this is your chance to meet a collection of amazing people you’d probably otherwise only encounter in some wacky dream.
Why not stretch your legs out a little and take a few turns on the Old Port skating rink. Take in the beautiful views and grab a hot chocolate while you slip and slide around with your friends.
The Holiday Flicks series at Place d’Youville takes place at 5pm today where you’ll be greeted with warm blankets, hot chocolate, and a selection of holiday movies that’ll be sure to make you reminisce. Did we mention it’s free? Broadcast is in French only.
And to finish your day at the Old Port off, make sure to catch TELUS Fire on Ice where dazzling fireworks will light up Montreal’s winter sky to the sound of video games soundtracks.
SUNDAY
Restaruant AREM is open again after a brief hiatus and we couldn’t be happier. Today they’ll be hosting a Winter Solstice party centered around an Ottoman tradition featuring a festive menu with sensual notes, live music, dancing, and DJs. Of course, a unique and delicious menu will be the highlight of the evening, featuring exotic flavours and colours that will truly indulge your taste buds.
Chinatown’s Le Mal Necessaire will play host to some Drunken Masters today. A Sunday competition involving 15 of the best bartenders in Montreal where only the fastest and finest in the execution of five pre-selected cocktails will come out as the winner. Each bartender has to pay $20 to enter the competition, which gets added to a common pot that the winner will receive. The crowd promises to be wild, just letting you know.
Yasmin Yoga will celebrate the winter solstice and longest night of the year by offering two community yoga classes (2pm & 3:45pm) lit by candle light and accompanied by live music. The theme of the solstice practices is Into the Light, not only because days become longer on Dec. 22, but also because yoga is about enlightening ourselves and communities. The classes will be led by some of Montreal’s finest yoga teachers and are open to all levels and all ages. This event is offered for free and is intended to ignite community spirit. With this in mind, they are asking participants bring to some kind of contribution for Dans la Rue, a non-profit organization that works with homeless youth in Montreal.
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