Festival season has sprung and the city is bustling with activities. Last night we drove through Griffintown (on the way to Costco!) and you could finally feel that long-awaited warm-weather vibe with sidewalks full of pedestrians, packed terraces and that Montreal joie de vivre. While June can be a super busy month as a parent (end of school, start of camp) don’t forget to enjoy the special moments out on the town. Here are just a few excuses to get you out enjoying all of the Montreal family activities June 2024 has to offer.

First Fridays – June 7-9

One of our favourite culinary summer events, the food trucks are back at the Olympic Stadium. The first instalment of the season is themed Asian delicacies and you can expect to sample delicious bites from some of your favourite food trucks including Lucille’s, Miss Tacos, Notre Boeuf de Grace and more. The 3-day event has musical programming daily. Start times over the 3 days range between 3-4pm.

Ormstown Expo – June 6-9

About an hour from Montreal, this old-fashioned fair features 4 days of fun. Pick from a slew of activities like tractor pulls, rabbit and guinea pig shows or a demolition derby. Then, enjoy the rides, snack booths and other attractions.

One day tickets: $10-$20/adults, $10-$15/kids, under 5/free, bracelets $ required for rides

Grain du Ciel – June 7-9

Go fly a kite at La Tohu’s Frederic-Back Park as kite flyers from Canada, the US, Switzerland and Austria take to the skies. Aside from watching this free event along with circus performances, families can borrow their own kite to fly or attend one of the kite-making workshops. Saturday and Sunday are the busiest days, from 10am-3pm, with a French youth theatre show, bike and scooter loans and more.

Astrofest – June 15-16

The Planetarium is opening its doors for two days of space discovery. No tickets are required. The day includes a full itinerary of activities that focus on the sun including water rockets, arts and crafts, sun and star gazing, with face painting, popcorn, and cotton candy! For the big kids, the program extends from 9:30pm-12am on Saturday with marshmallows while gazing up at the moon.

Strawberry Picking Season – mid June

It’s almost the time of year to head out to the farm to pick some sweet treats. They have not yet announced specific opening dates but with the warm weather and plenty of rain, are aiming to open mid-month. Here are a few of my favourite farms near Montreal.

Family & Pet Day – June 15

The Suburban newspaper and Tanguay stores are joining forces for this family event taking place at Centennial Park in Beaconsfield. Kids and pets are the focus with tons of activities from music to inflatables, and exotic cars to pet boutiques. Entrance is free.

Aquazilla – Opening June 15/22

With two locations, the Aquazilla aquatic playground will be re-opening for the season on June 15 in Oka and on June 22 at Parc Jean Drapeau. From trampolines to wiggle bridges to giant swings, this obstacle course on water is meant for kids 6+. Children ages 6-8 require a parent to accompany them on the structure. Prices vary by location and time,

Festival of Colours – June 22

What a fun way to celebrate the end of the school year! The Old Port will be hosting its annual Holi Fest – a celebration of colour. The full-day event (12pm-10pm) features paint throwing on the hour, music, Bollywood style dancing and more. Kids are welcome!

Free for kids under 12, $24.95/adult

L’International des Feux Loto-Québec – June 27 – August 1

Fireworks season is back at La Ronde with the first event taking place at the end of June. The theme is a tribute to boy and girl bands, and features laser effects, all starting at 10pm. You need a single day ticket to see the show and a General Admission or Gold Seat ticket to get a seat in the stands. If you’re a Coldplay fan, save the date for August 1st as this final show will be a tribute to the band, and begins earlier at 8pm.