13 Exciting Events and Activities in Montreal in May

What to do in Montreal in May to make the most of the long-awaited spring? Montreal is known as the city of festivals, and there are several scheduled in May as temperatures rise and people escape their homes.

This month, our list of the best things to do in Montreal in May includes a mix of festivals, sporting events, cultural outings and family-friendly activities.

Events in Montreal in May

1. Festival des Musiciens du Monde

This year, the seventh edition of the Festival des Musiciens du Monde, organized by the Centre des Musiciens du Monde, will take place. The centre’s mission is to encourage the creation, development and promotion of musical traditions from around the world. If you love discovering new music, this is the festival for you.

2. TransAmériques Festival

The TransAmériques Festival, founded in 1985, celebrates dance and theatre. The program includes performances, interviews with artists and creative workshops, bringing the audience into the game. It’s a festival for those who love art that surprises and makes you think.

3. Eureka Science Festival

The Eureka Science Festival, offering three full days of scientific activities, is perfect for those who love asking, “How does it work?” The biggest science celebration in Quebec, get set to attend over 100 free workshops, shows and lectures. They each aim to delight the curious, both young and old.

4. Piknic Électronik

May in Montreal equals the much-anticipated return of Piknic Électronik. Held at Parc Jean-Drapeau, it’s the ultimate gathering for electronic music enthusiasts. Come dance to the sound of DJs, grab a drink or simply lie on the grass and fill your ears with music.

5. Fuego Fuego Festival

This Latin music festival has been enormously successful since its launch in 2020. For its third edition, the festival will feature Maluma, Rauw Alejandro and Ivy Queen, among others. Get set to dance the weekend away at Montreal Olympic Park.

6. Mondial de la Bière (World Beer Festival)

Calling all beer enthusiasts! Let me introduce you to North America’s most important international beer festival. For its 30th edition, Mondial de la Bière will showcase 400 products from just shy of 100 different breweries. This event will particularly celebrate beers from Belgium, France and Brazil and include beers brewed especially for this 30th anniversary.

7. Tour la Nuit (A ‘Go Bike Mtl’ Festival Event)

The night version of the Tour de l’Île is the perfect event for cycling buffs looking for a slightly smaller challenge. While the regular Tour de l’Île features a 47-kilometre route, the night version is limited to 26 kilometres. The cooler night temperatures are very pleasant for riding. Departures are between 8:00 and 9:30 pm, with the event ending at 11:30 pm.

8. National Improvisation League Season Finale

Important: This event is in French only.

Looking for entertainment? Why not attend the last match of the National Improvisation League season? The LNI’s Charade Cup features 15 regular matches, two semi-finals and one final match to ultimately determine a winning team chosen by the public. By attending the final match, you’ll see the favourite teams compete and give their all to make you laugh!

9. Puces POP

This fair, held four times a year, truly showcases Quebec’s art and craftsmanship. At each event, creators gather to present and sell ceramics, illustrations, clothing, body products, jewelry and more. Puces POP is the perfect place to find an original gift for a loved one while supporting local businesses and emerging artists.

What To Do in Montreal in May

10. Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

If you haven’t already, visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts to discover Georgia O’Keeffe and Henry Moore’s works before the exhibition ends. In addition to the artists’ paintings, drawings and sculptures, the exhibition features reconstructions of their personal studios.

On Wednesday evenings, admission to the museum is half-price for adults and free for children.

11. Montreal Biodome

If the weather isn’t cooperating, one of my favourite indoor family activities in Montreal in May is visiting the Biodome. There, you can discover the creatures that inhabit the Gulf of St. Lawrence, as well as several other creatures, including the penguins of Antarctica.

If you feel like extending your visit, you can also tour the Insectarium and the Planetarium, just a few steps away. Residents of the Montreal metropolitan area are entitled to a discount on admission.

Getaways and Day Trips From Montreal in May

12. May Madness at Mont St-Sauveur

Two months after the end of the season, Mont St-Sauveur welcomes ski and snowboard fanatics for a festive evening on the mountain. Slide down the slopes one last time while enjoying the milder temperatures, and stay to party at May Madness if you feel like it.

13. Sun Life Longueuil Marathon

Are you more into running and looking for a challenge? Join the Longueuil Marathon. Several courses are offered, with the shortest distance being one kilometre and the longest being 42.2 kilometres. Events are open to athletes of all ages, and you can run or walk.

Ready for a road trip? Check out our ideas for things to do in Quebec City in May.

Weather in Montreal in May

In May, maximum temperatures (during the day) generally range between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius. It’s the time of year when you might need to shed layers or add some. Therefore, we recommend packing clothing that’s easy to store in a bag, such as scarves and light jackets.

There are many things to do in Montreal in May to make the most of the longer days and milder temperatures. Between cultural outings, sporting events and tastings, you’re likely never to stop while visiting Montreal in May.