Halloween decorations out, holiday decorations in. Winter is inching closer even though it may not feel like it. Montreal’s November activity calendar is loaded with holiday events. Discover them all in my roundup of events in Montreal with Kids November 2024 edition.

JRC Toy Sale – November 1 – December 24

Have you started your holiday shopping yet? You have time but you never know what gems you will find at the JRC toy sale. This is one of my favourites to visit a few times before the holidays for gifts, as well as loot bags for winter birthdays.

National Pet Show – November 2-3

Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Or do your kids want one and you’re looking for an out? Take them to the national pet show to discover dogs, cats and other pets including exotic species. There will be a canine agility competition, a cat show and tons of rabbits, birds, fish and more. Free admission for kids under 5, $12.50/kids, $16.50/adults

Le Salon du Chocolat – November 8-10

Making its way from Paris, the chocolate show hits Montreal for 3 days of deliciousness. The event features all kinds of experiences including a fashion chocolate show, but families will want to head to Le P’tit Choco. This kid-friendly area will host 9 different workshops, for $20 each, the event mascot, treats to bring home, as well as a surprise goodie bag.

Wacky Experiments & Wild Desserts – November 16

The Montreal Science Centre will be hosting a special event with guest scientist Yannick Bergeron from Les Débrouillards. Visitors will create 3 recipes, as an extension of the museum’s Banquet exhibition. Dishes will include: slimy worms, liquid nitrogen ice cream and cotton candy. The event lasts 2 hours and two sessions will be held at 10am and 3pm. It’s geared to kids 8+ and tickets are $33.50, with access to the museum.

CP Holiday Train – November 22 and 24

One of the most magical nights is coming up with the decked-out holiday train making stops in and around Montreal. On November 22, it will stop in Montreal West at 7pm, followed by Beaconsfield at 8:30pm with special musical guest KT Tunstall. On November 24, it will continue to Kahnawake at 5pm with the James Barker band.

Quartier des Spectacles Christmas Market – November 22-December 30

Another classic Montreal holiday experience is back. This outdoor market will feature 40 chalets with artisans selling their wares. Over the course of the market, there will be 150 free animations. The market lines up perfectly with a visit to Luminotherapie which will open on November 28.

Santa Claus Parade – November 23

Guess who is coming to town?! At 11am the parade will kick off at Bishop street and Rene Levesque, making its way to St Urbain. It will last about 60 to 90 minutes and will feature interactive installations along the way.

Exporail Holiday – November 23 – December 30

The railway museum is also launching its holiday season with special exhibits including decorated trains, fun activities like cookie decorating and crafts, as well as opportunities to meet Santa. The Christmas train, a 15 minute trip with Santa and Mrs. Claus, will take place on November 30 and December 7 and 8.

Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert – November 30

Place des Arts will be hosting another movie presentation, set to the sounds of a live orchestra. The event takes place at both 3pm and 7:30pm and will feature 90 minutes of film-harmonic music. Tickets range between $79.99 and $119.99.