I’m not sure how we got here so quickly but the end of 2025 is approaching. Holiday festivals and gatherings are in full swing making it a truly celebratory month. While end of year recitals, gift shopping and entertaining may be on the itinerary, don’t forget to explore all that Montreal with kids December 2025 has to offer.

Esplanade Tranquille Skating Rink

The skating rink at Quartier des Spectacles is open with 1500 metres of ice, free of charge and ready for skaters. The rink accommodates up to 400 skaters, making it the perfect December destination. There will be special events taking place throughout the season, including dance nights and video projections on the rink.

Jean Talon Marketing Holiday Activities – Weekends

The Jean Talon market is hosting activities and events throughout the month for young and old alike. Small businesses will be on display at the holiday market, selling holiday treats and gifts. On the first weekend (December 5-7), there will be Christmas stories told (in French). On December 12-14, there will be a visit from Santa Claus on Saturday from 10am to 1pm. On Sunday, there will be a free ornament decorating workshop from 10am to 4pm. On the last weekend (December 19-21), there will be a cooking workshop for kids on Saturday from 1pm-3pm. Advance registration (2 weeks prior) is required for all workshops.

Oglivy Christmas Window

The McCord Museum is once again hosting these famous holiday windows that have been around since 1947. The Enchanted Village is hosted inside, while The Mill in the Forest is outside for everyone to see. Visitors will be given an exploration booklet for hide-and-seek games. Other holiday-themed activities will be taking place at the museum as well.

Nutcracker Ballet – December 12-30

Les Grands Ballets Canadiens is putting on this Christmas classic at Place des Arts. The live orchestra will be performing alongside the ballet everyday at 2pm and 7:30pm. Tickets start at $96.

Peter Pan Pantomime – December 12 – January 4

The Hudson Village Theatre is putting on its annual fundraising performance with Peter Pan in the spotlight this year. Captain Hook, Peter Pan and the gang will put on this play, with lots of laughs, at both 2pm and 7pm. Tickets are $30 each.

Exporail Christmas – Until December 30

The Railway Christmas is taking place at the Exporail museum in Saint-Constant. The holiday train will feature Santa and Mrs. Claus and will make trips on December 6, 13 and 14, with 20-minute rides throughout the day. Kids can also write Santa a letter and mail it in the museum’s mail express car. On weekends, kids’ craft activities will also be taking place, and for a small fee, gingerbread cookies can be decorated. Finally, a holiday tea service will be available in the Canada Car (extra fee) with a maximum of 9 people enjoying 90 minutes of tea time, from December 19-30.

Free Entry Montreal Museum of Art – December 24 -January 3

Throughout the holiday season, the museum will be offering free entry to all visitors. While it will be closed on December 25th and January 1st, it’s open to all throughout the winter break. It’s a great opportunity to discover the art, have a drink at the café and enjoy a day downtown.

Montreal Malls Take on the Holidays

Two of the city’s newest malls have big plans for the holiday season. Quartier Dix 30 is currently hosting a Polar Carnival until December 24th including Santa Claus and Santa’s village. There are weekend workshops where kids can craft ornaments, snow bears, and snowflakes. At Royalmount, there will be a performance of The Nutcracker on December 6th at 11am and 2pm. The skating rink will be opening soon in the Urban Park, when it will be open from 9am to 9pm daily.