9 Awesome Activities in Montreal in April

April is the first full month of spring, and that means a lot for a city that is so deeply involved in winter. By the time April rolls around, the city welcomes the change with great joy and enthusiasm.

The shift can be perceived at every layer of the city’s vibrant cultural life, as seen in our list of the best activities in Montreal in April. 

Here are our favourite things to do in Montreal in spring. But for more inspiration, check out our guide listing 60 things to do in Montreal, no matter the season.

Events in Montreal in April

1. Blue Metropolis International Literary Festival 

This yearly literary festival features everything you’d expect from a gathering of literature fans. Blue Metropolis’ readings, workshops, and critical debates will keep you enthralled and provide you with enough food for thought to sustain you for the following months. 

This is North America’s foremost literary gathering and features over 200 exciting activities and events. The events present attendees with some of the world’s most engaging literature. Head here to see the presentation of the prestigious Blue Metropolis International Literary Grand Prize.

2. La Grande Braderie de Mode Québécoise

If you’re a local fashion and designer clothes fan, this semi-annual event is for you. La Grande Braderie happens at Marché Bonsecours, offering all kinds of fashion items for men and women at irresistible prices. 

3. Plural Contemporary Art Fair 

This April festival celebrates the best of contemporary art in Canada. You might be familiar with the Papier Art Festival, Plural’s former name. The Contemporary Art Galleries Association hosts the annual festival at Old Montreal’s Grand Quay. The 2024 edition presents 39 galleries from seven different Canadian cities.  

What To Do in Montreal in April

With longer days, warmer temperatures, melting snow, and nature coming to life, April in Montreal is a magical time sure to please everyone. Here are our favourite things to do in Montreal in April.

4. Mount Royal Park 

Although Mount Royal Park is open year-round, it is only during April that you can catch the trees budding. Longer days and less snow also make the mountain’s paths and trails more accessible. The optimal conditions make Mount Royal Park one of the best free things to do in Montreal in April. 

5. Walking Tour 

Montreal has a rich history that is worth immersing yourself in. I’ve always found that a deeper knowledge of an area makes me appreciate my time there more. As you can imagine, there are a bunch of companies offering Montreal walking tours. My favourites are the free tours and the Old Montreal food and drink tours. 

6. Montreal Botanical Garden 

One of my favourite things to do in Montreal in the spring is watching nature come to life. There’s no better place to do this than the Botanical Garden. It’s rewarding to meander around the beautiful gardens, looking for buds and listening to chirping birds. 

Things To Do Elsewhere in Quebec in April 

7. Parc National des Iles-de-Boucherville 

You’ll find this park a few kilometres from Montreal in the middle of the Saint-Lawrence River. The five islands that form the national park are a nature lover’s dream, and a visit will surely provide you with a blast of fresh spring life.  

8. Kenauk Nature

Kenauk Nature offers luxury chalet rentals year-round. Less than two hours from Montreal, a springtime visit is perfect for taking breathtaking pictures of awakening nature or enjoying relaxing hikes in a nature wonderland. 

9. Spring Skiing at Charlevoix 

April is pretty much the last month to enjoy winter sports, so why not go out with a bang and visit the beautiful Charlevoix region? Le Massif has spring skiing until April 9th. If you’ve never experienced it, you’ll love rocking only a sweatshirt or t-shirt while gliding down the slopes. 

Weather in Montreal in April

April is a pivotal month in Quebec, as its four seasons are incredibly well-defined. It’s hard to predict what to expect in the first month of spring. Some days will be sunny and warm (you’ll be tempted to wear shorts and a shirt), while others will be windy and rainy. 

The irregular temperatures are a symptom of nature coming back to life. So, although it can make packing tricky, it’s a necessary part of our seasonal cycle. We suggest packing various clothing items to prepare for any kind of weather. 

While it may seem like a lot, if you pack one or two of everything (jacket, shirt, warm pants, light pants, warm sweater, light long-sleeve, etc), you’ll be good to go. 

So, nature lovers, Montreal in April is calling your name. Enjoy visiting beautiful natural destinations like Mount Royal Park and the Montreal Botanical Gardens. While packing for April in Montreal is unpredictable, you can predict you’ll have a good time.