Mark your calendars: On November 25, Santa Claus, the Star Fairy, elves and a host of over 100 festive characters are taking to the streets of downtown Montreal.
Spreading holiday magic across the heart of Montreal, the 71st edition of one of Montreal’s favourite holiday events and best things to do during Christmas features Farah Alibay as the Star Fairy. With so many incredible things happening in downtown Montreal, add this to your list now.
Where does the Santa Claus Parade start in Montreal this year?
Starting on René-Lévesque in front of Place Ville Marie’s Esplanade PVM, the parade’s 13 floats will carry on up Robert-Bourassa and then onto Sainte-Catherine, ending at Place des Festivals.
Santa will then head inside Complexe Desjardins — a 9 minute walk from the Eaton Centre and McGill metro — to meet and greet.
What time will the Santa Claus Parade start?
The parade will start at 10:30 a.m.
How long is the parade?
The Santa Claus parade should last about 45 minutes.
What is the best way to get to the parade?
Public transport (metro, bus and REM) is the best way to get to the parade, thanks to the 7 metro stations located near the route: Bonaventure and Lucien-L’Allier (Orange line) and Atwater, Guy-Concordia, Peel, McGill and Place des arts (Green line).
Is the route of the parade the same as last year?
The route has been changed for the 2023 parade, and will not pass along Sainte-Catherine Street, west of Robert Bourassa Boulevard. The start of the parade will be on René-Lévesque Boulevard, opposite the Esplanade PVM.
Will there be any street closures this year?
Due to construction, Sainte-Catherine Street between De Bleury and Balmoral Streets will not be accessible to the public.
Is there a big screen where I can watch the parade away from the crowds?
Dorchester Square will have a big screen on which the parade will be broadcast, where make-up artists and a choir will provide entertainment from 10 a.m.
What are the best things to do after the parade?
Just a few blocks from the parade in the Eaton Centre is Time Out Market Montreal, home to some of the best chefs and restaurants under one roof in a sprawling 40,000 square-foot space. It's the ultimate downtown spot for your fall-themed food fix, and the perfect spot for a quick bite. Warm up at the new wine bar, or over a few arcade games with the kids.
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