A Senior- and Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve in Montreal
Montreal is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, and New Year’s Eve captures the city’s festive essence like no other time. Whether you’re mesmerized by fireworks lighting up the night sky or exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, there’s an abundance of activities to enjoy. Here’s your guide to experiencing the best of Montreal for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 2024-2025. From budget-friendly outings to luxurious splurges, we’ve got a mix of options for you.
Remember, New Year’s Day can bring closures to certain attractions, so planning ahead is key. Let’s explore the activities that will make this New Year’s unforgettable in Montreal!
Budget-Friendly and Free Activities in Montreal on New Year’s
Old Montreal Countdown & Fireworks
Location: Jacques-Cartier Pier, Old Montreal
Getting There: Accessible by Metro (Champ-de-Mars or Place-d’Armes stations)
Nearby Points of Interest: Old Port Ice Skating Rink, Notre-Dame Basilica
Head to Old Montreal for the city’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration, complete with live music, DJs, and a vibrant crowd. The Jacques-Cartier Pier offers a prime location to enjoy the impressive midnight fireworks. Arrive early to secure a spot and soak in the historic area’s energy. Before the festivities begin, wander around the Old Port or catch a glimpse of the Notre-Dame Basilica beautifully lit for the holidays.
Luminothérapie at Place des Festivals
Location: Quartier des Spectacles
Getting There: Metro lines to Place-des-Arts station
Nearby Points of Interest: Museum of Contemporary Art, Complexe Desjardins
Running through New Year’s, Montreal’s Luminothérapie showcases imaginative light displays and interactive installations in Place des Festivals. It’s a family-friendly event encouraging visitors to engage with playful lights and sounds. Given that Quartier des Spectacles is rich in art and culture, you can easily visit the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art or warm up with a hot chocolate at Complexe Desjardins.
Montreal Observation Wheel at the Old Port
Location: Old Port of Montreal
Getting There: Metro to Champ-de-Mars or Place-d’Armes, then a short walk
Nearby Points of Interest: Science Centre, Bonsecours Market
For a stunning view of the city, take a ride on the Montreal Observation Wheel. While it’s not free, the experience is affordable and offers panoramic views that are unforgettable, especially with the city’s holiday lights twinkling below. Consider visiting Bonsecours Market beforehand to browse some artisanal goods or the Science Centre for an interactive experience suitable for all ages.
Looking for activities big or small? check out more to do's at viator:
Mount Royal Park for a Winter Walk
Location: Mount Royal
Getting There: Bus 11 to Mount Royal Park or a short car ride from downtown
Nearby Points of Interest: Beaver Lake, Mount Royal Chalet
For a quieter but equally enchanting New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, head to Mount Royal Park. Bundle up for a winter walk and enjoy the serene, snow-covered landscapes. On New Year’s Eve, you may catch sight of locals and travellers gathering to watch the city’s fireworks. Be sure to make your way to the Mount Royal Chalet, where an observation deck offers a breathtaking view of Montreal’s skyline.
New Year’s Day Stroll in Jean-Drapeau Park
Location: Parc Jean-Drapeau
Getting There: Metro to Jean-Drapeau station
Nearby Points of Interest: Biosphere, La Ronde amusement park (closed during winter, but lovely for a photo op)
Jean-Drapeau Park is a peaceful escape from the city, ideal for a New Year’s Day outing. Great for families, it offers scenic walking paths and iconic landmarks like the Biosphere. Although La Ronde is closed for winter, the area remains picturesque, providing a tranquil backdrop for kicking off the New Year.
Splurge-Worthy Activities for New Year’s in Montreal
La Grande Roue de Montréal New Year’s Party
Price: Around $100 per person
Location: Old Port of Montreal
Getting There: Metro to Champ-de-Mars or Place-d’Armes, then walk to the Old Port
Nearby Points of Interest: Montreal Science Centre, Rue de la Commune
For a New Year’s party with a twist, join the celebration at La Grande Roue de Montréal. Indulge in champagne, snacks, and live music while enjoying 360-degree views of the city. This splurge-worthy experience offers warmth, views, and celebration, all in one cozy gondola. Beforehand, enjoy the lively Rue de la Commune, which buzzes with seasonal lights and music.
Cirque Éloize Winter Circus
Price: $150-$200 per person
Location: Montreal Casino Theatre
Getting There: Accessible by car or shuttle from downtown Montreal
Nearby Points of Interest: Montreal Casino, Floralies Gardens
If you’re a fan of the performing arts, Cirque Éloize’s Winter Circus is a mesmerizing experience. Performers blend acrobatics, storytelling, and humour in a way that delights audiences of all ages. After the show, consider a detour to the Montreal Casino or enjoy views over Floralies Gardens. Note that the Casino will be open on New Year’s Day, though Floralies Gardens may be best enjoyed before the show to avoid potential closures.
New Year’s Eve at the Biodome
Price: Around $150 per family
Location: Montreal Space for Life
Getting There: Metro to Viau station
Nearby Points of Interest: Montreal Botanical Garden, Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium
Montreal’s Biodome offers a New Year’s Eve event that brings you up close to wildlife in tropical and arctic ecosystems. Family-friendly and educational, it’s a great choice for seniors and families alike. Plan a visit to the Botanical Garden and Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium earlier in the day to explore diverse ecosystems and cosmic wonders. Check ahead for New Year’s Day hours, as the Biodome and related sites may have holiday schedules.
Where to stay in Montreal? Check the listings here:
Ice Skating Experience at Atrium Le 1000
Price: Entry is around $10, skate rentals for $20
Location: 1000 de La Gauchetière Ouest
Getting There: Metro to Bonaventure
Nearby Points of Interest: Underground City, Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
While ice skating is budget-friendly, consider upgrading your experience at Atrium Le 1000 for an unforgettable skate in Montreal’s largest indoor rink. The ambiance here is charmingly festive, perfect for all ages. Before or after skating, explore Montreal’s Underground City or visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts for a cultural dose.
Know Before You Go
Many attractions in Montreal may have limited hours on New Year’s Day, particularly museums and government buildings. However, outdoor spaces like Mount Royal Park, Jean-Drapeau Park, and Old Port skating rinks typically welcome visitors. Checking ahead for specific holiday schedules is wise if you have a particular spot in mind.
Conclusion
Book Your New Year's Trip Early!
If you have never been to Montreal over the holidays and haven’t seen my general post on winter travel to Canada, I’ll say this—you should pack for just about every weather possibility. I generally spend New Year’s Eve in Montreal and have seen everything from blizzards to early spring-like temps to an ice storm. Be prepared!
Montreal’s New Year’s festivities are unique, offering something for every type of traveller. To make the most of the holiday and secure the best rates, consider booking your trip and accommodations as early as possible. With a little planning, you’re in for a memorable start to 2025 in the enchanting city of Montreal!
Plan Your Perfect New Year’s Trip to Montreal Now
Here are some links to other information and sites you might find interesting:
Please note: The opinions expressed in this document should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences after 40-plus years of business and vacation travel. My likes and dislikes may vary drastically from yours. Do your research and find products and experiences that align with your likes and dislikes. Most of all have happy travels and see you out there on the road!
Al of Al Murray Travel & Photography: From the time in my youth, when I would lay on our garage roof watching planes traverse the skies above me, I knew I wanted to see the world.
My passion grew after spending a semester of my university days in Barcelona. I spent more time on trains and buses than I did in class.
After earning my BA from Carleton University, life got in the way. But I did find time to graduate again from George Brown in Fitness and Lifestyle Management and then work my way through most of a degree in Sports Administration. However I needed to find work and pay for all this education!
It wasn’t until my “middle age” did I start exploring the world again. First, transversing the US and Canada to take part in tennis tournaments. Then later to complete my spectator “grand slam” of tennis.
I accomplished this while earning my certificate in photography from Toronto Metropolitan University. I am now combining the two passions and now sharing with you my many lessons learned.