IN SHORT
Top 6 activities to do this summer in Montreal:
- Festival international de Jazz
- Festival international Nuits d’Afrique
- SOULFEST Montréal
- Just for Laughs
- Festival Fierté Montréal
- Festival M.A.D.
- Other downtown activities
There are many activities you can do in Montreal this summer, especially if you live in a residential tower. The summer calendar is packed and there’s something for every taste. Discover our top 6 and take full advantage of the summer.
Festival international de Jazz à Montréal
Since its inception in 1980, the Festival international de Jazz has been a must see. Initially held at Terre des Hommes, it’s now staged in downtown Montreal.
This summer’s edition, featuring 350 concerts, is in the Quartier des spectacles until July 4. Located in the heart of the city, you’ll be only a short walk away from the outdoor scenes, especially if you live in one of Groupe Accueil International’s residential towers.
The programming features classical jazz and contemporary music. It is one of the best things to do in Montreal this summer. Just to give you an idea, in 2025, one million attendees went to see at least one of the concerts on offer. Go and get the most out of it.
Festival international Nuits d’Afrique
The Festival international Nuits d’Afrique takes place from July 7 to July 19, 2026. For nearly two weeks, the Quartier des spectacles comes alive with music from Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
Did you know? Nuits d’Afrique has been in existence for 40 years now and the outdoor shows are free. During the festival, downtown Montreal is completely transformed, and the energy is very different.
Nuits d’Afrique is at walking distance from your residential tower. Rest assured you’ll experience powerful emotions!
SOULFEST Montréal
This year, from July 9 to 12, 2026, Saint-Catherine Street West turns into a dance floor.
Take full advantage of this latest edition to dance to the rhythm of various types of contemporary music at Square St-James.
The special, vibrant energy at SOULFEST will surprise you the whole time. Walk down to Saint-Catherine Street and let this festival atmosphere captivate you.
Just for Laughs
From July 15 to 26, 2026, you’ll find Just for Laughs in the Quartier des spectacles, just steps away from your downtown apartment.
There will be some big names in comedy and fresh new faces all competing to make you laugh out loud.
Come attend the shows, don’t miss it. Remember that outdoor programming is free!
Just for Laughs 2026? Expect festive evenings and a lot of laughter. Every year, more than a million people attend the event.
Festival Fierté Montréal
Put July 31 to August 9, 2006, on your calendar and welcome the festivities of Pride Montreal.
This year is the 20th edition of the Festival, celebrating “the collective strength of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.”
Expect outdoor shows, community events, and some wild evenings and artistic performances everywhere in the heart of the city.
On August 9, 2026, come watch the Pride Parade in the streets of the city. Do you live in a residential tower? Maybe you’ll be able to see the Parade right from your balcony!
Festival M.A.D.
Between August 20 and 23, 2026, Festival Mode Arts Divertissement is being held right in the heart of Montreal.
You’ll get access to fashion shows, dance, musical performances, urban art, workshops open to all, and so much more.
It will be an opportunity to discuss with designers and emerging talents, and to appreciate the creative buzz of Montreal.[1]
Other Activities to Do in Montreal This Summer
If you live in a residential tower in the city centre, you’re in for a real treat this summer!
While there are numerous festivals, you can also enjoy sculpture exhibitions, colourful installations, video projections, games, and much more in the Quartier des Spectacles.
Make the most of the nightlife to admire all the illuminated art installations. It’s free!
Finally, don’t forget the beautiful terraces in the downtown area. Whether you’re having a drink after a day’s shopping, enjoying a good meal with friends or simply admiring the exciting city life, there will always be terraces that allow you to discover a very special side of Montreal.
Groupe Accueil International with its residential towers in the heart of the city, invites you to make the most of your 2026 summer season. Take advantage of your apartment’s convenient location to enjoy activities in Montreal this summer.
If you’re looking to rent, put your trust in our professional team today!
1 You’ll find even more details on the festivals at the following link: https://montrealcentreville.ca/en/what-to-do/top-summer-events-downtown-montreal/
