Seasonal Activities

Parks Canada is more than just parks.  The agency also takes care of historical sites like the Sir George-Étienne CartierNational Historic Site.  The site, located in Old Montreal, is open to tourists and locals alike.  And, if you are looking to do something different during the lead up to Christmas you may want to consider a stop in to the site.  Up to the 23rd of December you can experience a Victorian Christmas at SGECNS. 

After you have done the Victorian Christmas style you may want to consider another tradition.  Many in Québec do what is called a Réveillon.  The tradition involves food lots of it.  It's done twice the night before Christmas up to and past midnight or after church and on New Years eve.  Along with some known favorites like turkey, mince meat pie, or toutière as it is called is served.  Wine and or champagne is also consumed and yes gifts are exchanged.  It's a different way to do Christmas.

Also going on in the city and worldwide is Hanukkah, known as the festival of lights.  The tradition of lighting the Menorah a nine branched candelabara that is lit during the season which begins as early as late November and as late as mid December has begun.  The real fun though is seeing how kids react to things like a Christmas tree or treats during Hanukkah.


A big tradition is to go to the ballet and see the Nutcracker.  Each year Les Grands Ballets puts on the show which is a real treat for big and small kids alike to see.  This year the show runs from the 13th to the 30th of December.

Of course there are many different traditions celebrated during this time of year.  No matter which one you partake in I hope you enjoy time with friends and family.

C. T.