Happy New Year, Montreal! The first full weekend of 2026 is here, and while some holiday things are wrapping up, there are still some cozy and creative options. Don't miss the last chance for the gorgeous Actapalabra show at Maison Théâtre before it closes Sunday! Plus, grab your paintbrushes for the Family Paint Party at Loulou Céramique for a super cute, low-key afternoon.
Quick Picks
Luminothérapie
Quartiers des Spectacles / Esplanade Tranquille
Wander through the dazzling outdoor light art installations downtown.
Family Paint Party
Loulou Céramique
A warm, step-by-step guided painting session complete with hot chocolate.
Actapalabra
Maison Théâtre
A theatrical experience for younger audiences that's closing this weekend!
Luminothérapie
The city's outdoor art exhibition is still on, perfect for a walk! Check out the interactive light displays and maybe even some skating at Esplanade Tranquille if the mood strikes. It’s a great way to get some fresh air without committing to a big day trip.
Why we picked it: It’s the quintessential Montreal winter free activity, running all month.
Family Paint Party
Ditch the screens for a few hours and get messy (but not too messy!) with some guided painting. They include hot chocolate, which is basically mandatory for any cozy winter craft session. No experience is needed, so don't worry if your artistic skills are rusty.
Why we picked it: A specific, small-venue creative event that feels very local and cozy.
The Art of the Brick: LEGO® Art Exhibition
This LEGO exhibition is still running until Jan 10th, so this is a good weekend to catch it before it's gone. It's seriously impressive—even older kids will be amazed by what they built with those bricks.
Why we picked it: Last chance to see this super popular, quirky museum exhibit before it closes.
Museum of Illusions of Montréal
If you need an indoor option that's guaranteed to generate goofy selfies, head to the illusions museum in Old Montréal. It's great for getting the whole family to question their eyesight for an hour.
Why we picked it: A fun, interactive, non-traditional museum perfect for a cold day.
Exporail, le Musée Ferroviaire Canadien - Noël Ferroviaire
Check if the 'Railway Christmas' event is still running its final weekend—it sounds super charming with decorated trains and Santa visits. It's a bit of a drive, but train-obsessed kids will love it.
Why we picked it: Potentially the last chance for a very cute, seasonal, train-themed attraction.
Actapalabra
This is your final weekend to catch *Actapalabra* at the essential Maison Théâtre. It’s high-quality, age-appropriate theatre that the teens will actually appreciate, not just tolerate. Perfect for a cultural Sunday morning/afternoon.
Why we picked it: It’s the absolute last chance to see a limited-run youth production.
Garou solo
If you have older kids or teens who appreciate French pop icons, check if tickets are still available for Garou's run ending Sunday. Place des Arts usually has great shows that feel a bit more 'grown-up' for those too cool for cartoons.
Why we picked it: A big-name local artist with a performance wrapping up this weekend.
Disney On Ice presents Jump In!
It's Disney on Ice! If you have little ones obsessed with figure skating and princesses, this is the big-ticket event for the weekend. Always a reliable crowd-pleaser for the younger set.
Why we picked it: The classic, guaranteed family spectacle for young kids.
Skating at Esplanade Tranquille
If you didn't hit the Luminothérapie walk, use the day to skate at Esplanade Tranquille, which is supposed to have DJ nights and lighting displays. It's a central spot to feel the winter buzz.
Why we picked it: It’s a major winter hub with more going on than just a simple rink.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Montreal this weekend?
This weekend (Jan 03-04), the best genuinely free option is wandering through the Luminothérapie light installations in the Quartiers des Spectacles (Event ID: montreal-1). Also, checking out the Esplanade Tranquille skating area is free if you bring your own skates (Event ID: montreal-6).
What's the best indoor/rainy day activity for families?
For a guaranteed indoor activity, the Family Paint Party at Loulou Céramique on Saturday afternoon looks perfect for creative, cozy fun (Event ID: montreal-2). If you prefer a museum, the LEGO Art Exhibition at the MMFA is wrapping up its run (Event ID: montreal-7).
Is there anything good specifically for toddlers/preschoolers?
The closing show at Maison Théâtre, Actapalabra (Ages 4 to 8 range mentioned), is perfect for younger theatre lovers and is running its final performances this weekend (Event ID: montreal-4). If you catch it early in the day, it sets a nice tone.