Montreal with Kids: 8 Things to Do in August 2018

Summer is halfway over. Not quite sure how that’s possible but we’re going to do everything we can to milk the second month of the season before the kids head back to school (gah!). I’m not leaving anything to chance or the summer days will slowly slip away from us. So I’ve rounded up my top 8 things to do in Montreal with kids for a little August inspo.

Virgin Radio Movies in the Park – August 8

Yes, they may have to leave for camp early the next morning but I say it’s summer and when’s the last time they got to watch a movie under the stars? The local radio station will be showing Ferdinand on the big screen at the Recreation Centre in the Town of Mont Royal. The evening will include hot dogs, snacks and ice cream.

Free, Time TBD

Matsuri Japon – August 11

This one day festival, located near Parc Villeray, is the perfect opportunity to expose kids to Japanese culture and cuisine. Activities throughout the day include a traditional opening and closing ceremony and two main stages – martial arts and music/dance. Kids can try new games like yoyo fishing, superball and sumo, learn how to make origami and get their faces painted.

Free, 11am-8pm, Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre of Montreal, 8155 Rousselot

Casteliers sur l’herbe – August 11, 18 & 25

For three consecutive Sundays, Les amis de la montagne will be offering puppet shows at Beaver Lake for kids and their parents. This is a great excuse to visit Mont Royal and get the kids outdoors before or after the show.

Free, 2pm, Registration required

International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu – August 11 to 19

One of the biggest events nearby of the summer, this hot air balloon festival has something for everyone in the family. The La Tribu animation zone has inflatable structures and games, a toddler area, ball pits and a face painting booth. Between the agility course, remote control car racetrack and carnival rides, you may need more than one day on-site. And, of course, don’t forget about the amazing hot air balloons, in a variety of shapes and sizes, that take to the sky at 6am and 6pm daily. You may also want to plan your visit for August 18th when the Cool Kids group of 12-16 year olds performs live on stage.

$20-$30/adults, $10-$15/4-12 years old, under 4/free

Pointe-à-Callière Public Market – August 25 to 26

A staple event at the museum for the past 25 years, you know this is one not to be missed. For two days only, this outdoor event allows guests to escape to the 18th century as they enter a traditional market. With over 100 historical figures walking the courtyard, musicians, artists and even a military regiment, you will feel like you’ve been transported to another world. Food and drink, as well as gifts can be purchased at the market and the kids can enjoy a number of activities ranging from lacrosse to a calligraphy course to a coureur des bois challenge.

Free, 10am-8pm

Festival Marionettes Plein la rue 2018 – August 25 to 26

In just two days, over 60 puppet shows will take place in Verdun. With puppeteers travelling as far as France, the performances will be about 35 minutes each with something for kids of all ages. There will also be a daily workshop at 1pm where kids can spend 90 minutes creating their own marionettes with guidance and a specific theme.

Free, Consult the website for show schedules

Plus here are two more than I wrote about in my Montreal with Kids July post that are still taking place throughout the month of August:

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.