It’s wild to think that another year has come and gone! 2026 will now be my 16th year blogging (OMG!) What started as a journey through early motherhood, with a fresh newborn (who is now weeks away from getting her driver’s license) has morphed into monthly activity ideas, with doses of family travel sprinkled in. Sometimes I don’t blog or post as much as I’d like to, with 3 kids and a full-time job, but this passion project will definitely leap into the new year with me. So let’s kick it off to keep you warm and entertained in Montreal with kids for January 2026!

Exporail Iron & Ice – January 2 – February 1

Learn how weather impacts the railways in this special exhibit. Discover a train snow plow built for snow and ice. See snow trains that used to bring skiers to the Laurentian mountains. This is a great opportunity to discover the rest of the Exporail museum too!

NBA G League – January 8-9 & February 8-10

Professional basketball comes back to Montreal with the NBA G League and Les Nets de Montreal. Two weekends of games will include matches against the Wisconsin Herd and the Noblesville Boom. Tickets start at $25 for the event taking place at Place Bell.

Montreal Auto Show – January 16-25

A January Montreal classic, the auto show will be hosting the new St Hubert Family Zone. The main feature – the electric Ride ‘n drive is designed for kids – with drivable mini-electric cars that teach about sustainability through play. The zone will also feature a play area and interactive activities for all ages.

Igloofete – January 17 – February 7

While the music at Igloofest may cater to adults, these special four Saturday afternoons are just for families. Taking place at Quai Jacques-Cartier, there will be live musical performances, food trucks, games, activities and more. The event takes place from 1pm-6pm each weekend and is free for all.

Playground Festival – January 21-25

Geordie Theatre is warming up winter with live theatre and creative activities for kids and families. The 5-day event includes 3 different plays – Beyond Belief (6-11), 1984 2061 (12-17) and Celestial Bodies (12+),  exploring friendship, mental health, body image and self-discovery. One of the highlights of the festival will be on January 24th with a free pre-show workshop. On Sunday, free childcare will be offered. Most amazing of all, the festival is pay what you decide.

Fête des Neiges Recreoparc – January 25

It’s a winter festival at Recreoparc in the town of Sainte Catherine. From 12pm to 4pm there will be winter challenges, inflatable games, food trucks, animation and the opportunity to try out some of the fun on-site activities. From skating to snowshoeing to fat bikes, equipment is available to rent (any day). Entry for the event is free but there is a $9 charge for parking.

Olympic Symphony – January 25

Place des Arts is hosting a youth concert with the OSM in celebration of the upcoming Olympics. The show is in French and perfect for kids 6+ and adults. The music will include national anthems from around the world and other important songs with a sports twist. Tickets start at $40.

Kirkland Winter Festival – January 30-31

The first winter festival of the season kicks off in Kirkland on Friday with a family bingo night. On Saturday, the festivities kick off with family day, offering skating, scavenger hunts, bonfires, food trucks and more. Stay tuned for other community events in February!