A person doing stand-up comedy. Right: A person standing underneath cherry blossom trees.
Happy Monday, Montreal! Whether you're enjoying some time off thanks to Victoria Day, or as we call it here in Quebec, Journée nationale des Patriotes, or looking for fun and free activities in Montreal, we've got you covered.
With festival season in full force, new restaurants to visit and so many shows to catch this month, giving your wallet a break is never a bad idea, so we've compiled a list of free things to do in Montreal this week (May 20 to 24).
From a free trivia night and stand-up comedy show, all the way to open mic nights and a café social, there's a little bit of everything for everyone.
Here are six free activities in Montreal worth checking out.
Attend a trivia night with Quiz Master Brian
A poster for an upcoming trivia night fundraiser event in Montreal.
Courtesy of Quiz Master Brian
When: Thursday, May 23 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: MainLine Theatre — 3997, boul. Saint-Laurent
Why You Need To Go: Join in on a funny and fundraising event for the FringeMTL trivia night at MainLine Theatre with Quiz Master Brian. Guests will be able to enjoy a night of fun trivia, amazing prizes, and good company while supporting the MainLine Theatre. Montreal’s favourite trivia host, Quiz Master Brian, will lead teams of up to six participants in an immersive trivia experience. The event is completely bilingual and promises a memorable evening filled with laughter and excitement, so why not test your knowledge and have a great time for a good cause.
Attend a film screening
A poster for an upcoming film screeningl event in Montreal.
Courtesy of Carrefour d'aide aux nouveaux arrivants
When: Friday, May 24 at 9:30 a.m.
Where: 10780, rue Laverdure
Why You Need To Go: Montrealers can attend a screening event at Carrefour d'aide aux nouveaux arrivants for Intercultural Café-Meeting. You'll be able to enjoy a unique evening where community members come together to watch and discuss thought-provoking films. Located conveniently across from the Iberville Metro station, this event offers a welcoming atmosphere for cultural exchange and conversation. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., and entry is completely free.
Zen out with a breathing technique workshop
A poster for an upcoming belly breathing workshop.
Courtesy of Soul Dimension
When: Wednesday, May 22 at 1 p.m.
Where: Virtual Zoom event with Soul Dimension
Why You Need To Go: You can join in on a free breathwork workshop every Wednesday in Montreal hosted by Soul Dimension. This 30-minute online session guides you through deep breathing exercises and meditation to enhance your health, vitality, and peace. The class is suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. The breathwork workshop will help you connect with your highest intentions and experience profound relaxation. Once you sign up and receive the Zoom link, it's best to log in 10 minutes before the start of the class. Also, it's important to wear comfortable clothing and use a mat for extra comfort.
Laugh it up at a stand-up comedy show
A poster for an upcoming stand-up comedy show in Montreal.
Courtesy of L'Vrai Open Mic
When: Wednesday, May 22 at 8 p.m.
Where: Au P'tit Buck — 2480, rue Jean-Talon E.
Why You Need To Go: You can enjoy L'Vrai Open Mic Night for free in Montreal's Saint-Michel, hosted by William Bindia and Mounir Guedira. The stand-up show will be filled with humour that doesn't take itself too seriously, offering a unique show open to everyone who wants to perform. You can see both Quebec stand-up stars testing new jokes and amateurs taking the stage for the first time. The show will take place right across from the Iberville Metro station on the blue line, with parking available in nearby streets. Doors open at 7 p.m., sign-ups will begin at 7:30 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m. Please note that if it is marked as "sold out" tickets can still be purchased at the door the same night. The event is 18+.
Work up a sweat at free Zumba in Montreal
A poster for an upcoming free Zumba class in Montreal.
Courtesy of Mkali Moments Events
When: Monday, May 20 at 7 p.m.
Where: 7012, ch. Côte-De-Liesse
Why You Need To Go: Mkali Moments Events is hosting a free trial Zumba class where you can enjoy a fun and energetic workout with various genres and beats including Merengue, Salsa, Cumbia, Pop, Hip Hop, Afrobeat, and Bollywood, to name a few. Whether you're a Zumba pro or a first-timer, get ready to dance, sweat, and have a blast with our experienced instructors. While the trial is completely free, you do need to sign up to reserve your spot.
Jam it out at an open mic night
A person playing guitar at an open mic night.
Courtesy of Reid Alberta Thomas
When: Monday, May 20 at 10 p.m.
Where: Barfly — 4062, boul. Saint-Laurent
Why You Need To Go: Montrealers and visitors alike can join in on a free open mic night at Barfly in Montreal's PLatea-Mont-Royal borough with a free pool, free food, cheap beer, and a house guitar for anyone to play. It's a cash bar, but no worries — there’s an ATM right next to the pool table. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just looking for a fun night out, Barfly's is definitely the place to be.