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Find a hidden Christmas train in this enchanted Montreal alleyway

The Pôle Well Express is a magical new addition to rue Wellington's family-friendly holiday activities.

Laura Osborne
Written by
Laura Osborne
Editor, Time Out Canada
Promenade Wellington
Photograph: Caroline Perron
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All aboard the best family-friendly holiday activity in Montreal!

This famous, secret alleyway on rue Wellington, named one of the coolest streets in the world, just got even cooler.

With so many amazing train-related things happening right now, from a luxury train ride through the Canadian Rockies to a magical Christmas train making it’s way across the country, the Pôle Well Express is bringing holiday magic to Montreal for the whole season—holiday lights and Christmas markets included.

The only catch? You have to know where to find it.

Promenade Wellington
Photograph: Caroline Perron

Where is the Pôle Well Express located?

Discover one of Montreal’s most special holiday happenings between the Salvation Army and Dollarama (4025 Wellington).

When is the Pôle Well Express open?

The Pôle Well Express is accessible at all times from Nov. 26th, except Friday, November 29, Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Promenade Wellington
Photograph: Caroline Perron

What is else happening on Rue Wellington?

With twinkling lights, festive window displays, and holiday music, Promenade Wellington is the definition of magical Christmas atmosphere. The iconic giant Christmas tree at Pôle Well is back for its fourth year, and this year’s 42-foot double-trunk tree stands proudly in front of Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs church.

Wellington
Photograph: Caroline Perron

Take a stroll along the street to admire the merchants' creative decorations, and don't miss the more than twenty displays by artist Hemma Lagadec.

​​What’s more magical than holiday shopping with festive carols? Take in the performances by Imani Gospel on Sunday, December 8, and the Carte Blanche quartet on Saturday, December 14, at the forecourt of Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs. 

This year, the popular natural fir tree sale will take place at the corner of Galt and Wellington to support Harmonie Richelieu de Verdun. Visit the Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs church courtyard to find the perfect tree and fill your home with the scent of the season on Thursdays and Fridays: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays: 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. from November 23 to December 15, or while supplies last.

Promenade Wellington
Photograph: Caroline Perron

The two stunning Christmas villages are also back at Pôle Well. Visit the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs to explore a dazzling 400 sq. ft. village with shops, booths, a funfair, and festive characters. The church’s cozy atmosphere offers a magical experience, immersing you in the holiday spirit until December 23, Thursdays and Fridays: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. (except on show nights), and Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Promenade Wellington
Photograph: Caroline Perron | Promenade Wellington

Maçonnerie Gratton once again brings the holiday spirit to life with its handcrafted little village. This magical miniature version of Promenade Wellington can be found in the window at 3729 Rue Wellington. 

Promenade Wellington
Photograph: Caroline Perron

Meet Santa Claus and share a special moment with him at Pôle Well on Saturday, December 7. He’ll be spreading holiday cheer and listening to the wishes of both children and adults at Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Christmas / Noël : Promenade Wellington
Photograph: © Caroline Perron Photographies

From November 25 to December 20, 2024, kids can submit their drawings of Muffin and his sidekick Bobby in the Pôle Well letterbox for a chance to win one of three prizes from Well retailers. To enter, pick up your drawing at a participating store and drop it in the red Pôle Well mailbox, located in front of the Enchanted Alley (starting November 26).

Bring the whole family to Studio Tre Punti where Verdun-based storyteller Valérie will share enchanting stories that will captivate little ones aged 0 to 6. This activity, presented by Bibliothèques de Verdun, will be in French, and is happening on Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 10:30 a.m.

Lastly, there’s a new immersive space—a mini urban forest designed for a peaceful break with soothing nature sounds—located in Parc des Madelinots on the corner of Boul. LaSalle and rue Wellington.

RECOMMENDED:
Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal
Best things to do in Montreal with kids
 
Best Things to do on Christmas in Montreal 

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