Despite this week’s high temperatures and blue skies, McGill students know that the warm weather will not last forever. Still, students are enjoying every last bit of summer: Campus is buzzing with people walking around, getting hot dogs, studying outside, or simply laying down for a nap on the Lower Field. While Montréal’s outdoor events calendar is winding down for the winter, a few events are still happening here and there while we all pretend the cold isn’t coming. The Tribune offers a few recommendations for those who refuse to accept that fall is right around the corner.
2380 Notre Dame Street East
Since June 13, Pied-du-Courant has welcomed the people of Montréal for a fun outdoorsy festival every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The entrance is free until 7:00 p.m., and then it costs $5 CAD—only card payment is accepted on-site—which makes it one of the cheapest festivals in town. Every day, new musicians and/or DJs are introduced—check out their Instagram for more information. Located in the Old Port, the Village au Pied-du-Courant has a breathtaking view of the Saint-Laurent River and one of the beautiful bridges that cross it. You’ll also find plenty of drinks and food on the site. You have until Sept. 21 to jump on this opportunity. Furry friends are also welcome!
Esplanade Louvain, Avenue de l’Esplanade/De Louvain Ouest
If you’re looking for something to do on the remaining Thursday nights of September, Aire Commune should be on your radar. From 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., the Esplanade Louvain throws outdoor parties featuring performances from a variety of artists. Each week, the style of music being played varies based on the theme of the party. While the entrance used to be free, the festival has become the victim of its own success. The price to attend now ranges between $7.42 CAD until 6:30 PM and $11.12 CAD if you arrive later. Nonetheless, Aire Commune ensures an awesome time, which makes it a great place to decompress and have a drink with friends after class. Try their amazing poutine if you get a chance!
Parc Jean-Drapeau
A longtime student favourite for summer festivals, the famous Piknic festival takes place in Parc Jean-Drapeau. It opened its doors on May 19 and will last until Oct. 6, welcoming thousands of people partying on weekends. Piknic offers two types of events: Off Piknic—a concert event with popular artists coming to perform—and Piknic Electronik on Sundays, where DJs play one after the other from 4:00 p.m. onwards. While the former usually exceeds $80 CAD, the latter is much cheaper with tickets starting at $24 CAD. Piknic also offers student-friendly passes for the season, such as the Student Back-To-School Pass for $60 CAD. Overall, Piknic never disappoints and is a great place to party with Montrealers from distant horizons.
Montréal Botanical Garden
If you are a fan of immersive experiences and breathtaking light displays, the Gardens of Light in the Botanical Garden is a must-see. This year, running from Aug. 30 until Oct. 31, the Japanese, Chinese, and First Nations gardens will come alive with spectacular illuminations. This edition will feature projections inspired by elements of Japanese culture such as the seven autumn plants, the two most famous butterflies in Chinese culture—Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai—as well as fundamental principles of Indigenous culture through Innu poet Joséphine Bacon’s words and Métis artist Moe Clark’s songs. Take advantage of their 25 per cent discount from Sept. 2 to Oct. 8 when purchasing tickets for visits on Mondays and Tuesdays. Show your student ID to pay $12.25 CAD instead of the regular adult price $15.75 CAD. Montréalers also get a discount, so make sure to bring all your loved ones.
