Quebec’s biggest party of the summer is almost here, and it is wonderfully kid-friendly. The Fete nationale takes over June 23 and 24 with parades, fireworks, inflatables, and free shows in just about every corner of Greater Montreal, and there is plenty more for families in the days leading up to it. Here is where to take the kids over the next week and a bit, with towns and travel distances noted so you can plan around nap times.
🏮 Lantern Festival at TOHU and Frederic-Back Park
Where: TOHU and Frederic-Back Park, Saint-Michel (Montreal). When: June 17, evening.
The Saint-Michel neighbourhood comes together to build glowing lanterns and carry them through Frederic-Back Park in a big nocturnal parade that ends on TOHU’s public square. There are free musical performances, circus entertainment, and family activities across three days, so it is a magical, low-cost outing for kids who love a bit of sparkle after dark. Go at dusk so the little ones can see the lanterns light up.
🎪 Cirque du Soleil ECHO at the Old Port
Where: Grand Chapiteau, Quai Jacques-Cartier, Old Port (Montreal). When: Running all summer.
Cirque du Soleil’s ECHO is back under the Big Top in the Old Port, telling a story about the bond between humans and the animal kingdom. It runs about 125 minutes with an intermission, and it is a true crowd-pleaser for families; expect plenty of wide-eyed kids in the audience. Pair it with a walk along the waterfront beforehand and make a full afternoon of it.
🎉 Fete Nationale at Parc Maisonneuve
Where: Parc Maisonneuve, 4601 Sherbrooke St E (Montreal). When: June 24, site opens at noon.
The flagship celebration opens at noon with a dedicated children’s area and food trucks, then rolls into the traditional National Holiday Parade at 2 PM. The evening brings a star-studded concert with around 30 Quebec artists, and the whole thing is free. Arrive early, stake out a patch of grass, and let the kids burn off energy before the big show.
🏘️ Neighbourhood Celebrations All Over the Island
Where: 77 neighbourhoods across Montreal. When: June 23 and 24.
You do not have to travel far to celebrate. A whopping 77 local parties light up streets and parks across the island with inflatable games, airbrush tattoos, face painting, and fireworks. These community events are free and built for families, so check your borough’s listings and walk to the one nearest you. It is the easiest way to soak up the holiday without fighting downtown crowds.
🌳 Fete Nationale at the Centre de la nature, Laval
Where: Centre de la nature, 901 Ave du Parc, Laval. When: June 23 from 6 PM, and June 24 from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Laval families are spoiled this year. The big evening show runs June 23, then June 24 turns into a full day of animations, face painting, shows, inflatable games, and food trucks from morning to late afternoon. With loads of green space to roam, it is a perfect spot for younger kids who need room to run. Easy to reach from the North Shore and only a short drive from the city.
🎆 Fete Nationale on the South Shore
Where: Longueuil (multiple boroughs) and Sorbonne Park, Brossard. When: June 23 and 24.
The South Shore goes big too. Longueuil spreads celebrations across Vieux-Longueuil, Saint-Hubert, and Greenfield Park with family activities, shows, and fireworks, and transit on the Longueuil network is free both days. Over in Brossard, Sorbonne Park hosts an evening of music, games, and fireworks on June 23. Both are easy, family-friendly nights close to home for South Shore locals.
That is your family playbook for the week. From glowing lantern parades to fireworks in your own backyard, Greater Montreal is rolling out the welcome mat for kids of every age. Bring lawn chairs, pack snacks, and we will see you at the next roundup. Bonne Fete nationale!
