It may only be November, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start celebrating. The holiday season is upon so why waste anymore time?
Drink some hot chocolate, hum a Christmas carol, or get started on your holiday shopping.
Here are 13 ways to get in the holiday spirit in November:
Souk @ sat
If you’re sick of shopping in chain retail stores, then the souk @ sat is for you. This annual market highlights the coolest creations that Montreal has to offer. Sixty local artists come together under one roof, displaying everything from designer clothes and accessories to jewelry, CDs, and toys. There is guaranteed to be something for all tastes and budgets at this massive holiday fair.
When: November 29-December 4
Where: 1201 Boul St-Laurent
History, Legends, and Christmas Decorations Guided Tour
Join a holiday-themed guided tour from Kaleidoscope Tours and learn everything there is to know about Christmas in Montreal. There are three walking tours available, one in downtown, one in Old Port, and one that combines the two. Prices vary but tours will be running on Saturday and Sunday between November 26 and December 17
When: November 26-December 17
Where: Old Port and downtown
Les Ateliers du Marche de Novembre
The November Market is back for the second year in a row. Hosted by Artgang Montreal this exciting event is part market, part festival. There will be 40 local exhibitors selling a variety of seasonal goodies. However, there will also be a day full of workshops, live music, and an art demonstration by the Academie des Beaux-Arts de Montreal.
When: November 19
Where: Artgang Montreal, 6524 Rue Saint-Hubert
Montreal Santa Claus Parade
Montreal’s Santa Claus Parade, otherwise known as Défilé du Père Noël, is officially happening in 2016 (not that we ever had any doubt). Confirmed for November 19th at 11am, there’s less than one month left until we can watch Santa make his way down Sainte Catherine Street. Prepare for an array of creative floats, fun performers, free goodies, and of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus to wave goodbye at the end of the parade.
When: November 19, 11 am
Where: Sainte Catherine Street West, beginning at Rue Fort and ending at Rue Saint Urbain
Noel Chez Jean
Thinking of throwing a party? Why not have it at the elegant and cozy Noel Chez Jean. The beach chalet at Ile St-Helene’s Jean-Dore Beach transformed into Noel Chez Jean for the winter months. Starting November 25th, the public is welcome to rent out the space for parties and gatherings. This exclusive banquet setting includes a gourmet meal for each guest, DJs, a wood fireplace, and an outstanding view. Book it before it’s gone!
When: November 25-January 14
Where: Parc Jean Drapeau
Octoraise Pop Up Holiday Market
Octoraise has invited over 30 local artisans to showcase their products at this year’s holiday market. Taking place on the last weekend of November, this pop up fair will feature “unique, fun, and creative gifts” by local entrepreneurs.
When: November 30-December 1
Where: 1515 Sainte Catherine West
Hot chocolate
Put yourself in the holiday mood by sipping on a sweet, warm hot chocolate. Most cafes in Montreal will be offering hot chocolates at this time of year. However, if you’re interested in a more gourmet hot chocolate be sure to head to Juliette et Chocolat or Cacao 70 where you can choose from a wide range of hot chocolate drinks.
When: Any time
Where: Various locations
Holiday Market – Inspired By Africa
Montrealers are invited to attend the second annual Holiday Market – Inspired By Africa event. The unique market exclusively features gifts designed by Montreal-based Africans. There will be a variety of handmade products including scarves, jewelry, headwraps, cushion covers, accessories, and wooden decor. Head on over to Sainte Catherine West on November 26th for a delightful shopping experience.
When: November 26
Where: 1117 Sainte Catherine West
Santas Are Taking Over the Stewart Museum
The Stewart Museum’s magical Christmas exhibit opens on November 16th. The exhibition will showcase 30 Santa figurines and a Szalasi doll castle that comes to life when music plays. Admission to the museum and the special holiday exhibit are free.
When: November 16, 2016-January 8, 0217
Where: 20 Chemin du Tour de l’isle
AvH Christmas Bazaar
The Alexander von Humboldt German International School is hosting their annual Christmas Bazaar on November 20th. The largest fundraising event of the year, there will over 50 vendors in attendance selling items such as Christmas decorations, greeting cards, jewelry, natural soaps, gourmet food, pottery, hand-painted glass, and more. There will also be European-style food for the hungry shoppers including sausage, sauerkraut, raclette, and mulled wine.
When: November 20
Where: 216 Rue Victoria
Norwegian Christmas Sale
Get in the Scandinavian holiday spirit at the Norwegian Christmas Sale. This annual holiday fair is a perfect excuse to get your shopping started early. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase Norwegian food, like specialty marzipan cakes, as well as Norwegian crafts, gifts, and much more.
When: November 11-12
Where: 5065 Sherbrooke Street, Lachine
Ice Skating at Atrium Le 1000
The outdoor rinks may not be open but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy your first skate of the holiday season. Head to Atrium Le 1000 on Gauchetiere for some ultra fun indoor skating. They are open every day of the week and have skates available for rent.
When: Any day of the week
Where: 1000 Rue de la Gauchetière O
The Nutcracker Market
Hosted by Les Grands Ballets, the Nutcracker Market is a fun and festive Christmas shopping market that will take over Palais des Congres starting November 26th. Nearly 100 exhibitors will be participating at this year’s market, all of which have agreed to donate 10% of their proceeds to the Nutcracker Fund for Children. If you’re in a need of a gift for the foodie in your life, look no further. There will be a whole gourmet foods section selling everything from French macarons and candy to olive oil and popcorn.
When: November 26-December 6
Where: Palais des Congres
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