MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE: the magic of winter through gastronomy and art

This year the gastronomy component, which starts on February 20 is guided by a powerful new theme: honouring the women of the culinary world. Female chefs, wine growers and pastry chefs will proudly represent more than 70% of our talented guests. They’ll be treating us to their creativity and expertise in 64 restaurants across Montréal, where 94 guests hailing from 34 different countries, including 34 from Canada and Québec, will be welcomed.

Lumière sur la pâtisserie, another iconic theme, will celebrate the sweet foods we love to eat thanks to nine pastry chefs, including some internationally-renowned chefs and three local stars. These dessert masters promise to thrill our taste buds!  

The gourmet festivities continue with the 2nd edition of Brunch en lumière, an inviting event that takes place in 25 establishments, including Time Out (with drag queen Barbada presiding), Passé Composé and Archway. Love a good cuppa? Discerning tea fans will absolutely adore the new teatime, organized in one-of-a-kind venues, such as the Paparmane Tea Room and Lady Porcelaine.

The Village gourmand, at the heart of the festival, will showcase culinary talents with more than 30 demonstrations and renowned celebrity guests such as Chuck Hughes. Lastly, special and accessible menus give you the chance to savour this gourmet festival while social happenings such as the apéros, which pair wine tastings with workshops, promise fun-filled experiences for everyone.  

Consult the interactive AirFrance menu, created in collaboration with Tastet, to easily explore the city’s best restaurants.  

Gastronomy, of course, is given the place of honour at MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE, but the festive music programming is also a feast for the ears. Spectators can dance to the beats of Inhaler and Souldia, be moved by the melodies of Pierre Lapointe and Jonathan Roy, or lose themselves in the beautiful harmonies of Milk & Bone.

One of this edition’s highlights promises to be Rita Baga, who will be blasting us back to the past with the greatest hits of the 80s and performing songs from her own first album. It’s going to be quite the evening!  

Just like in past years, the outdoor site of the festival invites everyone to celebrate winter in all its splendour. Visitors can glide around the skating loop, go for a ride on the Grande Roue (Ferris wheel) or explore the winter labyrinth created for the young and the young at heart. 

The Village gourmand will offer even more onsite culinary discoveries, while the Bistro SAQ will welcome festivalgoers to relax in its friendly and fun-loving ambiance. A family zone and lots of other entertainment will round out this festive downtown tableau.

On March 1, 2025, Nuit Blanche invites you to immerse yourself in a night of cultural and festive activities. Program details will be unveiled shortly.  

Want to make the fun last longer and take full advantage of the festivities? Hotel partners such as Le Germain Montréal, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, DoubleTree by Hilton, Monville and many others are offering exclusive tourism packages.

One thing is certain, MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE is a dazzling urban get-together that will warm your heart this winter! 

Original article in French by Maude Carrier, adapted into English by Rebecca Sellers.