The leaves are getting a little redder, the evenings are getting a little darker, and front doors are decorated with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. A new season is officially upon us and Halloween will be here (on a Saturday night!) sooner than we know it. There are still plenty of activities to partake in outdoors, but as the air becomes crisper, indoor activities are on the itinerary too. Here’s my roundup of how to enjoy Montreal with kids October 2026 style.

Open Air Roller Disco – Until October 25

The Esplanade Tranquille at Quartier des Spectacles has been transformed into a roller disco this fall. Roller skates can be rented on-site, and on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings, instructors will be on-site giving lessons. Friday nights will feature live local DJs, too. Admission is free.

Halloween Shivers – October 1-31

No fall is complete without a visit to the Montreal Botanical Gardens. This special event features the resident sorcerer Kalbacius, on-site daily performing experiments with kids, with a focus on seeds. Participants can also make plant creatures and watch a French show. One of the best parts for little ones is the outdoor labyrinth.

Pizza Fest – October 1-31

Our city is celebrating the perfect slice all month long. Pizza Fest is the perfect opportunity to find the best pizza in the city, or at least from the 30 participating pizzerias. Try a slice and then vote online for your favourites. Other highlights of the festival include an all-you-can-eat pizza contest that takes place October 21-22 in the Old Port.

Laronde Pumpkin Festival – October 3 – November 1

Our amusement kicks off the scary season with the more tame pumpkin festival for little kids. Taking place on weekends and Thanksgiving Monday, the event will feature characters in costumes, dance performances, decorations, and even an ugly monsters show. There is also Fright Fest for those who aren’t afraid of a little scare, during the same timeframe.

Mamma Mia! – October 13-18

Escape to the Greek isles at Place des Arts as this Broadway hit takes the stage for a limited engagement. It’s ABBA at its best in this musical, with matinee and evening performances. Tickets start at $82.

Gem & Mineral Show – October 16 – 18

This is an interesting show for a range of collectors and creators – from beautiful beads for jewelry making to fossils for the little dinosaur-aholic. Taking place at Palais de Congrès, over 100 exhibitors will be showing off (and selling) their gemstones, minerals, fossils, beads, jewelry, and more. Admission for kids is free.

We Can be Entrepreneurs Book Launch – October 18

This isn’t any ordinary kids’ book launch. Harley Finkelstein, President of Shopify, has co-authored a book for ambitious kids ages 6-13. The launch event, at Shopify headquarters from 10:30am-12pm, will feature a talk from the authors, light bites and a business card making station for children. Registration is required.

Lachine Trick or Treat Hunt – October 23

Halloween starts early on Notre Dame street in Lachine. This evening event features a merchant candy hunt where local vendors open their shops to give out candy. There will also be live music, costume parties, and activities like lightsaber battles. Open to all.