Winter in Montreal is no joke. Temperatures often hover around 14°F (-10°C) and can plunge to -4°F (-20°C) during colder snaps. But as the snow falls and the chill sets in, locals don’t retreat; they lean in, embracing the city’s signature joie de vivre (joy of life).
Whether you’re looking for comfort, culture, or simply a good excuse to brave the cold, Montreal offers plenty of ways to make winter feel not just bearable, but genuinely fun, social, and memorable. One of the Canadian city’s main events is Igloofest. This unique experience is coveted enough for people from all across the globe to flock to, despite the frigid temperatures; but, there’s also a lot more to do while you’re in town for Igloofest.
Read on to discover My Modern Met’s tips for enjoying Montreal in winter.
Things to See and Do in Montreal During Winter
Nothing Chills Harder | Igloofest Montreal
No Montreal winter experience is complete without Igloofest, the self-proclaimed world’s coldest music festival! Freezing temperatures turn into a badge of honor. Set in the Old Port, Igloofest blends cutting-edge electronic lineups, bold visual design, and a uniquely Montréalais sense of partying. One-piece snowsuits, glowing stages, and thousands of dancers moving in unison create an atmosphere that’s equal parts rave and winter carnival.
More than a festival, Igloofest is a cultural ritual: proof that Montreal doesn’t hibernate, it celebrates.
Insider Tip: Dress smart (layers + moon boots are a must) and make sure to capture a moment with the infamous yetis.
Wellness Reset | Cold Plunge Ritual at Bota Bota
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Start your journey grounded and awakened.
Tucked on the St. Lawrence River, Bota Bota is a spa truly like no other, a serene boat-turned-sanctuary. Slide into the cold plunge after a warm sauna session to reboot your energy and reset your circulation. It’s an invigorating ritual locals swear by, especially in cooler months when the contrast feels electric.
Insider Tip: Book before sunset for river views and soft golden view of the Old Port.
Vinyl Therapy | Digging Session at La Rama Records
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For music obsessives and crate-diggers, La Rama Records is a treasure trove. Run your fingers along rows of DJ-centric releases that always aim to serve many styles of music. House, Techno, Electro, Disco, Jazz, Leftfield, Bass, Downtempo, Experimental, Reggae, Latin & more.
Insider Tip: Ask for staff favorites, you’ll get recommendations that go beyond.
Late Night Partying | SAT Dômes
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After dark, the party continues at the SAT Dômes, Montreal’s best immersive party series. Between experimental visuals, boundary-pushing music, and afters that blur into dawn, this is where local creativity comes alive.
Insider Tip: Do a quick neck stretch, you’ll be looking up all night.
Walking the Classics | St-Hubert & Beaubien Streets
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Step into the city’s urban fabric by foot. St-Hubert and Beaubien are iconic boulevards lined with boutiques, cafés, and neighbourhood gems. Pop into Pony for curated gifting and design finds that reflect Montreal’s aesthetic pulse.
Insider Tip: Early afternoon is best for wandering, street life is lively and cafés are at their coziest.
Foodie Destinations | Marci, Fleurs & Cadeaux, Café Osmo
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Refuel like a local. OSMO X MARUSAN, FLEURS ET CADEAUX, are Restaurant Marci are refined, warm, memorable & music forward. Expect thoughtful menus rooted in seasonal quality.
Insider Tip: Reserve early, great tables go fast. Especially on evenings with events.
Game Night | Women’s Hockey
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Feel the city’s hockey passion with a professional women hockey league. Montreal embraces sport with heart and energy with team La Victoire, expect adrenaline and cheers in equal measure.
Insider Tip: Come as you are, and make sure to scream as loud as you can.
A True Canadian Thrift Experience | Ribotti Vintage
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Staple of Montreal’s vintage scene, Ribotti is where retro ski culture meets curated nostalgia. Known for its iconic one-piece snowsuits and bold winter silhouettes, Ribotti has become synonymous with festival fashion especially during Igloofest season. Whether you’re hunting for a statement piece or simply soaking in the aesthetic, this shop captures Montreal’s love affair with winter style.
Insider Tip: No snowsuit? No problem, Ribotti snowsuits are available to rent.
Special thanks to INFAMOUS PR for co-writing this post.
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