News

It’s official: Quebec’s new winter forecast looks terrifying

Here’s what to expect in Montreal this December, and how to survive.

Laura Osborne
Written by
Laura Osborne
Editor, Time Out Canada
Montreal, Winter / L'hiver
Photograph: Josh Hild / Unsplash
Advertising

Tough? Stormy? Persistent? 

According to the experts at The Weather Network, this is what Quebec can expect from winter 2022-2023.

Winter, L'hiver
Photograph: Joy Real / Unsplash

We were warned back in September. Now we’re hearing more about heavier than average precipitation, near- to below-normal temperatures and persistent Arctic air. 

The word “tough” is being used to describe the province’s upcoming cold season.

A lot.

Montreal, Winter / L'hiver
Photograph: Shutterstock

Thankfully, Montreal has an arsenal of incredible things to do right now—weather be damned. In addition to being home to the coolest street, Montreal can also add coolest neighbourhood in the world to its list of accolades. 

Promenade Wellington - Bar Verdun Beach
Photograph: Caroline Perron | Bar Verdun Beach

And the list of fun things to do in the city in December is one of the many reasons Montreal was ranked 9th best city in the world.  

Marché de Nöel / Christmas Market
Photograph: Shutterstock

Here are our top 5 picks for enjoying December in Montreal.

1. Enjoy an indoor Christmas market

A massive Christmas market with 140 local vendors inside a 40,000 square-foot space home to some of the best chefs and restaurants in the city? Time Out Market Montréal—located in the Eaton Centre in downtown Montreal—will be hosting a magical holiday market called Marché de Noël Signé Local, just steps from McGill metro (so you don't have to go outside).

Time Out Market Montréal
Photograph: Time Out Market Montréal

2. Grab a table at one of the city’s best restaurants

Whether you’re looking to try one of Montreal’s hottest new menus, or eat at one of the city’s 50 best tables, there’s no better time to treat yourself to a next-level meal—including Montreal’s best cheap eats.

Café Amea
Photograph: Ariel Tarr | Café Amea

3. Explore Montreal's most Instagrammable holiday spot 

The Esplanade Tranquille skating rink in the Quartier des Spectacles in downtown Montreal has a mind-blowing interactive new experience guaranteed to brighten up your winter—and it’s free!

L'Esplanade Tranquille
Photograph: Ulysse Lemerise OSA

4. Get a free dose of light therapy

From a heated ride on the city’s illuminated ferris wheel, La Grand Roue, to the dazzling holiday lights popping up across the city—thanks in part to Luminothérapie’s large light-and-sound installations—it’s never been easier to brighten up a winter day in Montreal. 

Luminothérapie
Photograph: Ulysse Lemerise - OSA

5. Raise a glass to the holiday season

When in doubt, slide into a booth at your favourite bar, pub or club. Montreal is a city that’s famous for its nightlife, cocktails, and mocktails, so you’re spoiled for choice. Cheers!

Miracle Bar
Photograph: Alison Slattery - Two Food Photographers - Tourisme Montréal

RECOMMENDED:
Complete guide to the best things to do in Montreal
Best Christmas markets in Montreal
Best things to do in Montreal: December 2022
Best skating rinks in Montreal

You may also like
You may also like
Advertising