10 Things to Do in Montreal in October

October is one of the best months to visit Montreal, as you can avoid the summer crowds and also the cold temperatures of winter, but you can also discover some of the most beautiful landscapes of the city and participate in interesting activities. During the Canadian autumn, on the other hand, you can be the protagonist of some of the best local festivals in the province of Quebec.

Some of the best things to do in Montreal in October include attending an NHL game to support the Canadiens, the city's premier ice hockey franchise, exploring the fall colors at the Botanical Gardens, experiencing the Nouveau Monde Film Festival, attending Symphony Orchestra concerts and celebrating Halloween.

In October, ice hockey fans have the opportunity to attend NHL games in Montreal and support their local team, the Canadiens. This month marks the start of the league's regular season, which means you'll find plenty of games to enjoy, although you should note that you'll need to purchase NHL game tickets in advance.

The Bell Centre, the Canadiens' home arena, is filled with energy and excitement as fans gather to cheer on their team. Attending a home franchise game is a unique experience, as you can feel the passion of the fans as they fill the stands with chants and cheers.

In addition to enjoying the exciting ice hockey game, attendees can also enjoy the festive atmosphere inside and outside the stadium. The area around the Bell Centre is filled with activities, such as souvenir stores, restaurants and hockey-themed bars, where you can gather after the game with fans to share the sportsmanship and passion for one of the NHL's winningest teams.

Attending a Canadiens game in October will also give you the opportunity to see the players in action and witness their skills on the ice. With star players like Carey Price and Brendan Gallagher, the Canadiens are known for their talent and competitiveness.

In October, the Botanical Garden becomes a spectacle of color with the arrival of autumn. The trails are transformed into a paradise of vibrant-hued leaves, creating a perfect backdrop for a relaxing walk and for taking some of the best photographs of your trip, which is why it is often included in the itineraries of the best tours of Montreal.

In addition to the scenery, the Botanical Garden offers a wide variety of plants and flowers that are in full bloom during this time of year. You can admire the blooming chrysanthemums, the fruit trees laden with apples and pears, and the ornamental plants that embellish the gardens.

The Montreal Botanical Garden also features different themed areas, such as the Japanese Garden and the First Peoples Garden, which add a cultural touch to your experience. During your tour you can immerse yourself in the serenity of the Japanese Garden, admiring the ponds and bridges, or learn about indigenous traditions in the First Peoples Garden.

The Nouveau Monde Film Festival is an event that takes place in Montreal during the first weekend of October. This celebration focuses on promoting and showcasing films from around the world that explore new narratives, perspectives and cinematic styles.

During the festival, film lovers have the opportunity to enjoy screenings of independent films, short films and documentaries that are not usually shown in mainstream cinemas, making it a window into the world of alternative and experimental cinema. It is one of the best cultural experiences in the city, along with a visit to Montreal's best museums.

The festival also provides a platform for emerging filmmakers to present their work and establish connections with the film industry. In addition to screenings, there are lectures, panels and interactive activities that give attendees the opportunity to explore and discuss the art and industry of film.

Attending the Nouveau Monde Film Festival is an enriching experience for film lovers and those interested in discovering new voices in the film industry in a city that celebrates the artistic avant-garde in all its forms. It will also give you a taste of Montreal's nightlife and festive spirit.

The Harvest Festival is an annual event held throughout the month of October at Montreal's Jean-Talon Market. This ongoing event celebrates the fall harvest season and the abundance of fresh, local produce found at the market at this time of year.

During the festival, the flea market comes alive with a variety of themed activities and events. Local farmers and producers showcase their best products, from fruits and vegetables to cheeses, breads and wines. It's a perfect opportunity to taste and buy fresh, high-quality products directly from the farmers.

In addition to food, the festival also offers live entertainment, such as music, folk dancing and culinary demonstrations. There you can enjoy a festive atmosphere while exploring the market stalls, discovering new flavors and learning about Quebec's culinary culture. The market is located just outside of downtown, so you can access it by public transportation or Montreal's tourist buses.

Workshops and talks on sustainable agriculture, growing techniques and seasonal recipes are also organized during the festival. It is an ideal opportunity to gain knowledge about local agriculture and discover new ways to enjoy the products that characterize the region.

Attending the Montreal Symphony Orchestra concerts in October is an extraordinary musical experience. This renowned orchestra, led by outstanding conductors and composed of talented musicians, offers a diverse and exciting program during this month, which marks the opening of the season and gains relevance as one of the best cultural activities after the summer is over.

In October, the orchestra presents a series of concerts at Maison Symphonique. Classical music lovers have the opportunity to enjoy masterful performances of masterpieces by renowned composers such as Beethoven, Mozart and Tchaikovsky.

In addition to classical concerts, the orchestra also offers themed programs, collaborations with leading soloists and premieres of new compositions. Each concert is curated to captivate the audience and provide a memorable musical experience.

Attending the Montreal Symphony Orchestra concerts in October is not only an opportunity to enjoy high quality music, but also to immerse yourself in the excitement and beauty of live performance. This experience will transport you through the different emotions and expressions of classical music.

If you want to take part in one of Canada's most eclectic events, you can't miss the Ghost Festival, which is held in October to coincide with the Halloween season. This festival offers an experience that combines mystery, excitement and fun for all ages.

This event consists of a series of activities and attractions related to the world of terror and the supernatural. From haunted houses to light and sound shows, the festival transports visitors to an atmosphere of fantasy and suspense and is one of the best things to do in Montreal with children.

One of the main attractions of the Festival du Phantom are the haunted houses, where brave visitors can enter a world of scares and surprises. These houses are carefully designed to provide a spooky and immersive experience that will send shivers down your spine.

In addition to the haunted houses, the festival also features light and sound shows, theatrical performances and horror film screenings. Visitors can enjoy live performances, art installations and themed exhibits that immerse attendees in an atmosphere of fantasy and horror.

Exploring autumn at Westmount Park in Montreal in October is an enchanting experience that combines the beauty of nature with the excitement of outdoor concerts. This urban park offers an oasis of tranquility in the midst of the bustling city, and in autumn it is dressed in the vibrant colors of fallen leaves.

As you stroll through the trails of Westmount Park, you can enjoy the spectacular palette of colors offered by the fall foliage. The trees create a picturesque and romantic landscape, and it is the perfect setting to take a relaxing stroll and enjoy the fresh air while admiring the beauty of nature at this time of year.

In addition to the wonderful fall atmosphere, Westmount Park is also known for hosting outdoor concerts. During this season, various musical events are organized that attract local and international artists, so visiting this site is one of the best things to do in Montreal at night.

This park also offers a variety of recreational areas, including tennis courts, soccer fields and playgrounds for children. There are also trails for walking and exercise, as well as open spaces to enjoy a picnic or just relax in the middle of nature.

The Black and Blue Festival isone of the most prominent events held in Montreal in October. This event, which combines electronic music, art and LGBTQ+ culture, attracts thousands of people from around the world and transforms the city, for several days, into an epicenter of partying and fun.

The festival is characterized by its vibrant themed parties that take place in different venues around the city. From nightclubs to outdoor spaces, attendees can enjoy live performances by international DJs and dance until the wee hours of the morning.

Aside from music, the festival also features art exhibitions, film screenings and lectures that explore issues related to the LGBTQ+ community. It is an opportunity to enjoy an inclusive environment and celebrate the diversity of Montreal, which is considered one of the most progressive cities in the world.

In addition, one of the festival's most prominent features is its commitment to charitable causes. Funds raised during the event go to organizations fighting HIV/AIDS. If you plan to visit Montreal in August, you can also attend the Pride month events.

Montreal Garden Lights is an event that takes place in October in the city. During this period, several Montreal gardens and parks are illuminated with an impressive display of lights, creating an enchanting and festive atmosphere. Visitors have the opportunity to stroll along the illuminated paths and marvel at the beautiful light sculptures and art installations.

This event features a combination of lights and natural elements, highlighting the beauty of the gardens even during the darkest autumn nights. The vibrant colors and creative shapes of the lights create a fascinating visual spectacle and provide a unique experience for residents and visitors alike. In addition, you can also tour the site on bicycle tours.

In addition to the light displays, it is common to find complementary activities, such as live music, projection shows and special events for children, which are only matched by Montreal's Christmas and holiday celebrations.

You can also find food and drink stands where you can enjoy a variety of dining options while exploring the illuminated gardens.

Halloween celebrations are a magical and exciting time for residents and visitors to the city. During the month of October, Montreal is transformed into a scene full of mystery and fun, offering a wide range of themed events and activities.

One of the main attractions of Halloween celebrations in Montreal are the haunted houses. These specially designed spaces immerse you in a spooky atmosphere full of scares and surprises. Whether you prefer a spooky atmosphere or a more family-friendly one, there are options for all tastes, from scary haunted houses to themed experiences tailored for children.

In addition to the haunted houses, the city hosts numerous events and costume parties where creativity and fun are unleashed. From costume parades to bar and nightclub parties, there are endless opportunities to wear your spookiest attire and enjoy the festive atmosphere. You can also take part in ghost tours, which are included among the best tours in Montreal.

In addition, during Halloween, theme parks and zoos organize special events with fun activities such as pumpkin workshops, haunted carriage rides and themed shows.

In October, temperatures in Montreal begin to cool significantly as autumn sets in. During this month, the weather is cool and variable, with average temperatures ranging from 5° to 15°.

As the month progresses, it is common for temperatures to gradually drop, especially towards the end of October. Mornings and evenings can be particularly cool, with temperatures that can hover around 0°. I advise you to be prepared and always carry coats suitable for the temperature changes, which in some cases can resemble those of winter in Montreal.

Also keep in mind that, in terms of weather, October can be unpredictable. It can feature sunny and mild days, but you may also experience rain and cool winds.

In October, the city experiences a significant tourist influx as many tourists take advantage of the autumn season to visit Canada and enjoy its unique charm, although you won't find the crowds that Montreal does in summer.

In addition, the autumn landscapes create a picturesque and inviting atmosphere for visitors, so the city's parks and gardens, such as Mount Royal Park and the Botanical Gardens, become popular destinations for those who wish to admire and capture the beauty of the season.

October marks the beginning of several events and festivals in Montreal, which further increases the influx of tourists. Film festivals, music events, gastronomic celebrations and art exhibitions attract visitors from far and wide with their diverse cultural offerings.

In October, prices in Montreal can vary depending on the season and tourist demand. In general, it is possible to find more affordable prices compared to the summer months, when the city is in full tourist swing.

For accommodation, you can find cheaper hotel and lodging rates in October, especially if you avoid holidays and special events. In addition, some establishments may offer promotions and discounts to attract visitors during this off-peak season.

For food and activities, prices at Montreal restaurants and bars tend to remain stable during October. However, some places may offer special menus or promotions related to the season or specific holidays.

October kicks off the coldest months of the year in Montreal, and while it doesn't have winter temperatures, you will need to pack warm. Here is a list of what you can pack in your suitcase:

• Warm jacket
• Waterproof boots
• Thermal socks
• Waterproof gloves
• Woolen hat
• Woolen scarves
• Sunglasses
• Wool sweaters
• Warm pants
• Light T-shirt