Fun and entertainment Montreal

Timetable

Nightclubs are generally open from Thursday to Saturday, from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. (later for afterhours). For activities with friends (cinema, billiards, bowling, go-karting, escape games, etc.), opening hours vary widely depending on the type of establishment. There are also a number of casinos in Quebec, including the one in Montreal, which is open 24 hours a day. For the performing arts (music, comedy, theater, etc.), annual programming is concentrated mainly outside the summer season, in the evenings most of the time.

Budget & Tips

Clubbing in Montreal is generally less expensive than in Europe (although not necessarily to the same high standard). As everywhere else, entry is often free before a certain time (usually 11pm) or by joining the guest list. Ladies also benefit from free admission on ladies' nights (at least one night a week). For cinema, discounts are offered for matinee shows and on the weekly reduced-price day (usually Tuesdays). Good deal on shows: La Vitrine offers special deals and advantageous rates on pre-sales for all kinds of shows and events in Quebec (lavitrine.com).

Keep in mind that all prices quoted are exclusive of taxes. Not only must you add taxes (14.975%), but also the 15% service charge when applicable. All methods of payment are accepted, but it may happen that the bar in a concert hall, for example, only accepts cash and/or debit card.

To be booked

To ensure a seat, reservations are highly recommended for shows. For certain activities, such as go-karting and escape games, reservations are often imperative and a deposit may be required. For the rest, simply turn up on the day.

Night transport

In Montreal, no problem getting home at a late hour. If the metro is in operation until between 12:30 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. (depending on the metro line and the daytime), more than 20 night buses then take over and cover the entire metropolis. Otherwise, there are always taxis and Uber and other such vehicles that offer a 24-hour service. Also, there are several drive-through services in the Greater Montreal area, but you generally have to be a member to benefit from their services.

Age restrictions

In Quebec, the legal drinking age is 18. Wherever a bar license applies, only adults are allowed to drink. Note that if you look under 25, you will probably be asked for official photo identification. You should also be aware that some clubs may require that you be 21 or 25 years of age to frequent them.

What's very local

Nothing special on this side except that a dress code is required in most nightclubs and casinos.

Smokers

Smoking is not permitted in clubs, theatres, casinos and their terraces. The same applies to billiard rooms, activity centres (karting, escape games...), etc. Smoking is also prohibited 9 metres from the door of the establishment, although some people do not respect this distance.

Tourist traps

As with sporting events, the resale of tickets for shows is omnipresent online, and sometimes even on the street. While it is true that you can save a few dollars by buying from resellers, it would be a shame to lose your money on fake tickets. So go through the official ticket offices.