Revel in what might be the last remnants of winter next weekend. Montréal is the stage, and the rates are right for a quick transborder trek.
Night Lights. Montréal’s magical spell is most manifest after the sun sets. Through March 5 Saint-Jacques Church at Université du Québec à Montréal will be bedecked by light installations, transforming it into an otherworldly apparition. Make your way to the corner of Sainte-Catherine Street East and Saint-Denis.
In an unlikely marriage of Frosty the Snowman and the X-Files, giant luminous spheres are arrayed downtown. Not only are they luminescent, some Polar Spheres generate sound and video. Just what they project is pegged to movements of the participants. That’s you. Sainte-Catherine Street West is the site.
Concerts. Over the past couple of decades Pointe-à-Callière’s Port Symphonies have become a Montréal favorite. It’s one of the most unusual outdoor concerts on the planet as a composer coaxes music from ship horns in the Old Port. Train whistle, drums and other “instruments” join the chorus. You’ll be hard-pressed to find anything like it anywhere else. The show is set for Feb. 27 at the Old Port.
Montreal All-Night. Feb. 26 is belongs to the night as Nuit blanche à Montréal fills the quays of Old Port, downtown, and the Quartier des spectacles with revelers. Live performances, music, exhibitions and spontaneity suffuse the city. A couple of key highlights: a winter fairyland in the Place des Festivals, and an underground city full of artistic corridors. No need to drive. The three districts of the city hosting Nuit blanche are connected via shuttle. If you don’t do anything else in Montréal make sure to see this one-of-a-kind festival.
Shopping. Nighttime not the right time for your rhythms? Consider a bout of day-time boutiquing along Rue-Saint Paul. It’s the oldest street in the city – and it’s chockfull of chic shops, trendy restaurants, laid-back bars and unique shops. Start on the western side, at Marché Bonsecours. That’s where you’ll find Boutique des metiers d’arts Quebecois. It’s a hub for local artisans – jewelers, glass blowers, and designers. Fancy fashion? Walk west and discover Delano Design at 70 Saint-Paul West. Interested in things Italian? Lola et les Autres is located at 165 Saint-Paul West. There you’ll find Gucci, Prada and D&G among others.
Gaming. Show off those new clothes at Casino de Montréal. Open 24/7, it boasts a full five floors of gaming, dining, and entertainment. Consider dinner at Nuances, which CAA/AAA awarded Five Diamonds. Valet parking and coat check are free.
Looking for a place to stay? Several hotels are offering Montreal High Lights Festival packages , with per-night prices starting at 104 CAD. That’s the tab at Quality Hotel at 3440 du Parc Avenue. In your room will be a gaggle of goodies: a pair of scarves, a packet of black tea, hard candies, chocolate, a wine and cheese tasting invitation, and a 10 CAD gift certificate from Canadian Maple Delights. The room alone usually costs 125 CAD. You get it for 104 CAD, based on availability. This rate is based on double occupancy and does not include taxes or fees.
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Story by Jerry Chandler
Photo credit: rosy outlook
