(Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day – June 24)
Every June 24, Quebecers unite to celebrate their identity, language, and vibrant culture during La Fête nationale du Québec, also known as Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day. The holiday has become a cornerstone of Quebecois pride, filled with massive concerts, community activities, family fun, and patriotic flair.
If you’re in Montreal or nearby regions, you’re in for a lively and heartfelt celebration this year.
📅 Key Dates & Events
🔹 Friday, June 20 – Sunday, June 22
Leading up to the big day, several boroughs in and around Montreal host pre-celebrations:
- Festival Mondial de la Bière (World Beer Fest) runs downtown with over 100 breweries offering tastings and food pairings.
- Local parks and plazas host music nights, storytelling circles, and food truck gatherings.
🔹 Monday, June 23 – Pre-Party!
- Parc Maisonneuve (4601 Sherbrooke E): Family zone opens at 12:00 PM with inflatables, games, and food trucks. Evening shows start at 6:30 PM.
- Quartier des Spectacles: DJs and live art performances create a buzzing street party atmosphere beginning in the afternoon.
- Local neighborhood fêtes begin in places like Lachine, Côte-des-Neiges, Verdun, and Beaconsfield.
🔹 Tuesday, June 24 – Fête Nationale
- 1:30 PM – The Big Parade: The historic parade returns to downtown Montreal, beginning near the intersection of Sherbrooke and De Bleury, filled with floats, dancers, and stilt-walkers.
- 8:00 PM–10:30 PM – Grand Spectacle: The official free concert at Parc Maisonneuve features Quebec stars like Robert Charlebois, Loud, Sara Dufour, and others, hosted by beloved actress Guylaine Tremblay.
- Nightfall – Bonfires light up public spaces throughout the city, keeping the celebration going late into the evening.
📍 Neighborhood & Suburban Events
🌳 Côte-des-Neiges (Placette Côte-des-Neiges)
- June 23–24, 4 PM – 8 PM
- Music, local artists, community BBQ, and storytelling for kids.
🌊 Lachine
- June 23, 2 PM – 6 PM: Family fun fair at Musée de Lachine
- 8:15 PM: Outdoor rock concert followed by fireworks at Parc Noël-Spinelli
🌿 Beaconsfield (Centennial Park)
- June 24, 1 PM – 8 PM
- Community BBQ, live music, kids’ crafts, and family photo booths
- Indoor backup venue available in case of rain at Beaconsfield Recreation Centre
🎶 Don’t Miss These Montreal Traditions
- Tam-Tams at Mount Royal: While not an official part of the holiday, this drum circle becomes extra lively during Saint-Jean weekend. Join locals dancing, juggling, and picnicking on the mountain.
- Old Montreal: Some of the most picturesque (and Instagram-worthy) gatherings happen near Place Jacques-Cartier, where impromptu performers and musicians draw crowds.
- Verdun Promenade Wellington: Known for its vibrant pedestrian zone, expect musicians, local artisans, and kids’ games.
🇲🇶 Why It Matters: The History of the Fête
The celebration dates back to 1834 when Ludger Duvernay, a journalist and nationalist, proposed June 24 as a day to honor the cultural identity of French Canadians. Over time, it evolved from a religious celebration of Saint John the Baptist to a secular national holiday, officially recognized in 1977 by the Quebec government.
Today, it symbolizes unity, language, creativity, and the collective spirit of Quebecers.
🧭 Tips for Visitors
- 🚇 Transit: STM (Montreal’s metro and bus system) will run on a modified holiday schedule. Avoid driving downtown—opt for public transport or BIXI bikes.
- 🧥 Weather: Check the forecast! June can be hot or stormy. Bring water, sunscreen, and a rain poncho.
- 📱 Apps to Download: “Mon RésoVélo” (bike map), “Chrono” (transit), and “Bonjour Québec” for tourist info.
📌 At a Glance
| 📅 Date | 📍 Location | ⭐ Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| June 20–22 | Downtown Montreal | Beer Fest, pop-up music shows |
| June 23 | Parc Maisonneuve, Lachine | Family games, outdoor concerts |
| June 24 | Parc Maisonneuve, Sherbrooke | Parade, headliner concert, bonfires |
💙 Final Word
Whether you’re a Montreal local or visiting for the first time, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day is the perfect time to connect with Quebec’s heritage, celebrate with friends, and soak in the festive energy. Dress in blue and white, wave a fleur-de-lys flag, and join the fun.
