Welcome to July and some of the fun things to do in Montreal July 2012!
July in Montreal is hot, humid and lots of fun! There are so many things to do and see. I’ve picked a few of my favorites to share with you in my Montreal Guide July.
Montreal Jazz Festival
One of the best things to do in July here is attend the Montreal Jazz Festival. It’s in full swing now and so many amazing shows to see. There are paid shows but the best part of the festival is that there are tons of free shows.
I can’t tell you how many years after work downtown, I would just walk over with a blanket and a few friends and find a place to sit, and listen to jazz under the stars — there is nothing quite like it.
Of course if you want to get closer to the stages you won’t be sitting. So you have a choice of programs; the indoor program, the outdoor program and the free program.
This weekend the festival is wrapping up and ends on July 8th so if you are headed this way get here soon to squeeze in some great jazz. There are too many artists to mention, and as jazz is so diverse I won’t even attempt to tell you who you should see. With all this talent you just can’t go wrong!
The Carifiesta Montreal
If you’re in town this weekend, you are in for a real treat. The Carifiesta Montreal or as I have always known it to be called “Carifete” has been a tradition here every July in Montreal since 1975. Colorful, musical, stunning costumes and of course music of the Carribean and Latin America coursing through the streets as this parade begins from Rene Levesque and Guy, and ends at Phillips Square on July 7.
Our Montreal community takes its style of Carifete from the Trinidad and Tobago carnivals. If you do go for two hours you will feel like your somewhere else as you take in the sights of shows, performances, dancing and the sounds of calypso, zouk, reggae, racine, and steel drums music.
You will find it very hard to sit still! It’s beautiful and fun for all ages. For more detailed information and where you can download the official Montreal Carifiesta mix tape by Jeff Jamm to get in the mood visit Carifiesta.com.
Montreal Fireworks Festival
The Montreal Fireworks Festival is still on and going strong. This weekend is Switzerland and next Saturday, July 14th is Canada! I will be making my way with my husband and the kids to see that one.
Just for Laughs
If you’re looking for a giggle or two you’ll want to check out our Just for Laughs Comedy Festival running from July 10th to July 29th. The festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year in its hometown of Montreal!
Who doesn’t want to laugh? Who also doesn’t want to be picked on? I’ve been near the front row and stressed about whether or not a comedian would pick on someone at our table or worse, me! It’s all in good fun though and an experience sure to be enjoyed by everyone.
There is a line-up of acts everyone will want to see. My favorite would have to be the gang who had a comedy show of their own many moons ago. It all started with a little frog in a swamp. Yes Kermit and Miss Piggy will be making an appearance along with some of their friends. How cool is that? It’s time to play the music, its time to light the lights…
So whatever you choose to do I am sure you will have a blast. Montreal in July is divine. Oh and if you see me be sure to say hello!