Montreal, Canada’s cultural metropolis, comes alive in May 2025 with a multitude of cultural events that attract visitors from all over the world. Are you a music lover, art enthusiast or simply looking for new experiences? In this article, we’ll explore the must-see events, exhibitions and parks to visit in spring 2024. What’s more, for a springtime getaway, we invite you to stay at Hôtel Gault, a boutique hotel ideally located in the heart of Old Montreal.
CRUISES IN MONTREAL
BATEAU MOUCHE
With Bateau Mouche, you’ll live the ultimate cruise experience in the Old Port of Montreal. The Bateau Mouche is a vessel as magnificent as it is modern, offering a unique cruise experience on the Saint Lawrence River. With its panoramic views of the city of Montreal and its chic onboard facilities, it’s a must-see for the Old Port of Montreal.
AML CRUISE
From the Old Port of Montreal, discover the metropolis from the river with guided cruises and brunch cruises. During dinner cruises, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Montreal. Learn more about AML Cruises.
FESTIVALS AND CULTURAL EVENTS IN MONTREAL IN MAY 2024
JAPAN WEEK – MAY 1th TO 11th, 2025
From May 1 to 11, Japan Week is back for its 4th edition. It’s a week dedicated to discovering and celebrating the richness of Japanese culture through a variety of culinary and cultural experiences. It’s a complete immersion in Japan’s cultural richness, without leaving Montreal.
Discover the festival’s culinary and cultural program here.
PIKNIC ELECTRONIK – FROM MAY TO OCTOBER, 2025 (Upcoming dates)
For fans of electronic music, don’t miss Piknic Electronik, an iconic festival featuring the best local and international DJs. The atmosphere is so electrifying, you’ll want to dance to the beats!
Discover the Piknic Electronik program.
MONDIAL DE LA BIÈRE – FROM JUNE 20th TO 22nd, 2025
Here’s the perfect festival for microbrewery beer lovers, taking place at Montreal’s Windsor Station and the Rio Tinto Zone indoor and outdoor courtyards! The Mondial de la Bière is a chance to immerse yourself in the world of brewing, where you can sample a variety of craft beers from all over the world. This not-to-be-missed event is a paradise for beer lovers, and takes place in a festive atmosphere.
FUEGO FUEGO – MAY, 2025 (Upcoming dates)
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Latin music at the fiery Fuego Fuego festival, celebrating the passion and energy of Latin American music. The Fuego Fuego festival will take place from May 25 to 26, 2024 at Montreal’s Olympic Park. On May 24, 2024, FUEGO FUEGO: LA RUMBA will take place downtown.
EXHIBITIONS AND IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES IN MONTREAL IN MAY 2024
OASIS IMMERSION
Oasis Immersion is the largest indoor immersive experience in Canada. Set in a 2,200 m² high-performance multimedia environment, OASIS immersion is located on the first floor of the Palais des congrès de Montréal, just a few minutes’ walk from the Hôtel Gault. Admire fascinating exhibitions such as Van Gogh, Dreaming Asia and Nature Vive, which will awaken your senses and feed your imagination.
HORIZON DE KHUFU BY PHI CENTER
Travel back to ancient Egypt with the Horizon of Khufu exhibition, a multi-dimensional virtual reality art experience presented by the Phi Center. Set off on an immersive expedition through space and time in Egypt to discover the Pyramid of Giza, the tomb of Pharaoh Khufu, built over 4,500 years ago!
WALKS AND GUIDED TOURS
BOTANICAL GARDEN
For nature lovers, the month of May is the ideal time to admire and observe the magnificent Botanical Garden of Montreal. You’ll be able to admire an incredible diversity of exotic plants and flowers. Let yourself be carried away by the tranquility of the setting and discover the hidden treasures of this natural jewel.
JEAN-DRAPEAU PARK
Jean-Drapeau Park offers many walking and cycling trails for beautiful strolls in a green setting far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Stroll along the St. Lawrence River and admire Montreal!
SPADE AND PALACIO
For those who’d like to learn more about the city of Montreal, Spade and Palacio offer the best walking and cycling tours. Their tours don’t follow a set script, and they don’t involve large groups. You’ll see the city through the eyes of a Montrealer, and become one yourself for the duration of the trip.
When you stay at Hôtel Gault, you’ll enjoy an exclusive discount on guided tours of Space and Palacio.
Whether you’re a fan of festivals, immersive art or nature, Montréal in May 2025 offers a multitude of captivating activities! From lively festivals to unique immersive exhibitions, the city promises an experience that’s sure to satisfy every visitor’s expectations. And to take full advantage of all that Montreal has to offer, book your stay at Hôtel Gault, a haven of peace and refinement in the heart of Old Montreal.
Article by Naomi – Travel blogger.