Spring Happenings in Montréal: From Total Solar Eclipse to the Reopening of Le 9e
With the arrival of spring and the warmer temperatures in Montréal, the city is abuzz with exciting events and activities to enjoy in 2024. Most notably, on Monday, April 8, Montréal will be the ideal site to witness the once-in-a-lifetime Total Solar Eclipse, completely visible from the island. Montréal residents and visitors will come together at Parc Jean Drapeau for a free eclipse viewing party hosted in partnership with the Space for Life museum so everyone can witness the solar phenomenon.
The event will offer clear sun views, and experts will be on-site to discuss the eclipse and distribute glasses to guests. Montréal’s rooftop venues and bars, such as Terrasse William Gray at Old Montréal boutique property Hotel William Gray, provide an excellent vantage point for taking in the sights while sipping a cocktail or a glass of wine. In addition, there are other events, such as festivals and the debut of new restaurants.
The Festivals
Mondial de la Bière, Montréal’s annual free international beer festival, will celebrate 30 years this year. The festival, which will run from May 24 to 26, is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. It features live music and celebrates craft beers from all over the globe, including those from Quebec province.
For those interested in the performing arts, the St-Ambroise Montréal Fringe Festival kicks off on May 29 and runs for three weeks through June 18. The annual festival takes place in the lively neighborhood of Plateau-Mont-Royal and features over 700 dancers, comedians, performers, and musicians who showcase their talents throughout the area.
Arts & Culture
Museum Month takes place in May in Montréal, allowing tourists to dig deeper into the city’s numerous cultural institutions. The McCord Stewart Museum will host two exciting events in May 2024: the first, the Norman Parkinson: Always in Style photography exhibition, which will provide visitors with fresh views on fashion photography, and the second, the Presence of the Past Indigenous Biennial celebration, which will highlight Indigenous cultures.
In addition, OASIS Immersion, well-known for its Dreaming Asia program, is launching Nature Vive, an experience inspired by the planet’s biodiversity and beauty. It aims to motivate people to respond to the global climate issue. National Geographic, the UN, the David Suzuki Foundation, the Palais des congrès de Montréal, and the Age of Union collaborated on this exhibition.
Culinary Activities in Montréal
The much-loved eatery Le 9e, located on the ninth floor of the Eaton Centre in downtown Montréal, will reopen this spring after being closed since 1999. Initially opened in 1931, with its new era in the 21st century, the restaurant will bring back to life its legendary art deco design and luxurious experience. The building’s owner, Ivanhoé Cambridge, and EVOQ Architecture are working to preserve the heritage and style while offering all the luxuries of the modern day.
Likewise, Marci sur la Plaza, which recently opened on Plaza St-Hubert’s, is quickly becoming a hotspot for creative interpretations of Italian favorites. The restaurant serves a range of delicacies, including bitter greens, stuffed clams, artisanal pizzas, natural wines, and excellent cocktails.
Where to Stay
Chic downtown property Hôtel Monville offers modern amenities just steps away from the beautiful Old Montréal neighborhood. Inspired by the urban Montréal style, the property is the first and only hotel in Canada to offer room service with fully autonomous delivery robots, bringing Montréal into the growing digital age. With its prime location, the property is ideal for the many cultural, food, and arts happenings visitors can enjoy throughout the spring.
