Family Activities in Montreal December 2021

The final month of the year is here and while the snow may be coming down, all we want to do is get out and explore. ‘Tis the festive season with a calendar full of celebrations, family activities in Montreal and opportunities for discovery. Here’s what’s on my calendar this month.

Luminotherapie – December 2-February 27

The most magical light display is back at Quartier des Spectacles for another holiday season. Free to all, discover the beauty of the lights at night with art installations and interactive elements like seesaws and a lit path on Ste. Catherine street. A massive whale will be on display this year with an accompanying light and sound show.

Quartier des Spectacles, Monday-Thursday: 12pm-10pm & Friday-Sunday: 10am-11pm

The Great Christmas Market – Until January 2

Once you’re down at Quartier des Spectacles, make it a full day activity by stopping at this amazing Christmas market. Not only will you be able to buy gifts from local artisans but you will walk through a mini village featuring 30 chalets where their wares will be housed. It’s the perfect snacking opportunity too with crepes, fondue, brownies and more available for purchase.

Quartier des Spectacles, times vary by date and by date

Sean Kenney’s Animal Super Powers – December 3-January 7

Have a LEGO fan in your life? This not-to-be-missed exhibit at the Palais des Congrès will feature 30 animal creations made out of bricks. Millions of LEGO bricks will be used to create this amazing display, coming to Quebec for the very fist time. A building area will be open to little engineers too.

Family pass $92, reservations required

Oglivy Window @ McCord Museum – December 3-January 2

The ultimate holiday activity is back at the McCord Museum! Delight your kids with a tradition dating back to 1947 by watching the magical displays that used to be housed in the Oglivy window. The Mill in the Forest display will be featured outdoors, free for anyone who passes by. The Enchanted Village will be inside, free for children but with the ask for a donation from adults.

Plan your trip to the museum on a Sunday and you can participate in their family workshops for kids 4-12 years old. This month’s theme is “Looking After My City” where kids can create a photo of Montreal with magnetic images. The activity is free for children under 12, and adults too, thanks to the 100 free days at the museum program.

Skating at Bonsecours Basin – December 11-March 6

Ice skating in the Old Port is back again this year after a short pandemic hiatus. Bundle up and get ready to skate as a family, with amazing views! Skates are available for rent and season passes are available for families, at a discounted rate until December 11th. There will be special events throughout the winter including karaoke on ice, live DJs, and more.

Between Jacques Cartier Quay and Clock Tower Quay

Santa Bus – December 18

The Santa Claus parade may be cancelled in Montreal this year but that doesn’t mean he’s not making an appearance elsewhere (not in a mall). The city of Kirkland is organizing the Santa Bus, where Saint Nick and the city’s mascot will kick off the evening at 5:30pm at Kirkland Park. Then the following stops will be made, until 8:30pm, each with music, fun and more.