Montreal with Kids: 8 Things to Do in July 2018

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind between end-of-year concerts, buying/wrapping/giving teacher gifts and getting the kids ready for camp. I can’t believe I haven’t blogged in over a month! But as an apology I’ve got a good one for you based on a recent instagram poll I put out there. I’ve created a guide of things to do in Montreal with kids, during the month of July.

Now I know that between public pools, splash pads and getting outdoors as much as possible the summer can seem busy but this guide highlights the special events taking place in Montreal this month. Hopefully this week’s heat wave won’t last too long so we can all get outside (out of the air-conditioned museums and movie theatres) and enjoy a few of them!

Montreal International Jazz Festival: Until July 7

You only have a few more days to head down to Quartier des Spectacles to visit one of Montreal’s most popular summer festivals. There are plenty of family friendly activities, everyday and at multiple times. The Musical Park is a great place to play and the Family Club is the ideal spot to take a load off while they enjoy activities like art, puppet shows and musical performances. And don’t forget about the Little School of Jazz.

Daily as of 11:30am, free

Montreal Cirque Festival: July 5 to 15

Acrobats, clowns and other circus performers are invading Montreal for this festival that takes place at locations throughout the city. While there are quite a few shows that aren’t free, I think the best bet for families is the Zone Jeunesse for 5-12 year olds to clown around on the trampoline and trapeze, try their hand at juggling and more, put on by the Verdun Circus School.

Free, daily from 5:30pm-9:30pm (except July 9), Saint Denis St. between Sherbrooke and Ontario

Montreal Fireworks Festival: July 7 to August 8

I always want to let my kids see fireworks displays but letting them stay up past dusk always seems a bit too late. But if we can spend a day at La Ronde first, I know they’ll fall asleep in the car after seeing the sky light up! Taking place on Saturdays and Wednesdays, many countries will be represented at the competition. To kick it off, the opening features fireworks set to the songs of Abba.

Starting at $55, includes entry to LaRonde, kids under 2 are free

Marché des Possibles: Weekends until July 29

One of our family’s favourite summer outings, this weekend festival is put on by Pop Montreal and always has kids in mind. Located in a park in the Mile End, the festivities begin on Friday evening and last throughout the weekend. Check the weekly schedule on Facebook to find out what food vendors will be present and what the kids can look forward to (yoga, puppet shows…)

Free, 5635 Saint Dominique

A Kid’s World Festival: July 18-22

This five-day festival in Old Montreal is dedicated to kids and their families. The festival will include children’s entertainment, street food and local vendors. Kids will enjoy face painting, bouncy castles, virtual reality demos, balloons, a photo booth & more!

Old Port Clock Tower, free admission

5K Super Splash Obstacle Race: July 28

A family activity for those with kids 7+. 25 obstacles will take your family through water and mud, foam, tunnels, mazes and more! The event is located in Saint-Beatrix, QC about 1.5 hours from Montreal. Participants will receive a headband, bracelet, medal, stickers and photos to remember a super day.

$89.95/person, registration required

Old Port Clock Tower Beach: Until Labour Day

While they can’t go for a dip in the water, kids will love playing in the sand at this beach in the heart of Old Montreal. With a great view of the bridge and the bold blue umbrellas, this is the perfect destination for a staycation.

$5/person, kids 3 and under/free

Aquazilla Obstacle Course: Until Labour Day

Located in Parc Jean Drapeau, this obstacle course is on the water and open to kids 6+. It’s a 35 metre inflatable structure that includes a wiggle bridge, monkey bars, trampolines and much more.