Welcome to Tiotia:ke - Montréal!
Nestled in the heart the St. Lawrence River lies Tiotia:ke, an unceded territory that has been home to the Kanien'kehá:ka and other Indigenous nations for millennia. They have lived, hunted, and fished here, maintaining profound and sacred connections with the land. Acknowledging the historical injustices and traumas inflicted upon the Indigenous peoples of this region, including land loss, cultural suppression, and ongoing discriminatory policies, we honor the Indigenous nations as stewards of Tiotia:ke. We fully support their calls for justice, autonomy, and restitution.
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Head up the gentle slope of Mount Royal to see views of Montréal from the mountain's lookouts. Photo credit: City of Montréal. |
Distinctive Neighborhoods
To truly grasp the essence of Montréal, one must explore its diverse neighborhoods, each reflecting unique cultural, architectural, and social characteristics born from a history of tensions and reconciliations among cultures, languages, and social classes. Old Montréal exudes European charm with its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks like Notre-Dame Basilica and bustling squares like Place Jacques-Cartier. The Old Port beckons with its riverfront ambiance and vibrant activities, while the Pointe-à-Callière Archaeology and History Museum offers insights into the city's rich past. The Lachine Canal district provides a different perspective, offering glimpses of the city's vitality. Stroll through the once-industrial St-Henri neighborhood, visit Atwater Market for fresh produce, and savor the unique "maple snow" ice cream from a local artisanal glacier.
Venture to the affluent slopes of Mount Royal to admire the architecture of Montréal's more privileged Anglophone neighborhoods. Explore the greenhouses of Westmount Library and its surrounding park, a serene oasis amid urban life. Mont Royal, a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, offers panoramic views of the cityscape.
Mile-End, known for its vibrant neighborhood life and dynamic arts scene, is a must-visit. Indulge in handmade gnocchi at the iconic drogheria fine, complemented by Montréal bagels from Fairmount Bagels and artisanal ice cream from Kem Coba. Don't miss the legendary smoked meat at Schwartz's, a culinary institution since 1928.
The Village stands as a symbol of solidarity for Montréal's LGBTQ+ community, surrounded by resources and vibrant nightlife venues like Mado, renowned for its spirited drag performances. For those seeking nature's tranquility, Parc Jean-Drapeau on Ste-Helene's Island offers beaches and amusement rides, while the Underground City and downtown's architectural marvels cater to urban enthusiasts.
Additionally, exploring neighborhoods like Plateau-Mont-Royal, with its colorful street art and bohemian atmosphere, and Quartier des Spectacles, the city's cultural heart boasting theaters, festivals, and entertainment venues, provides further insight into Montréal's vibrant spirit and dynamic character. These areas offer a rich tapestry of experiences that enrich one's understanding of Montréal's diverse and thriving metropolis.
Exploring Montréal
Tiotia:ke/Montréal embraces its diverse heritage, shaped by waves of immigration from France, Ireland, Italy, the Maghreb, China, Vietnam, Haiti, and beyond. A city of diversity within a province committed to French language preservation, Montréal's dynamism and multiculturalism shine through its cuisine, arts, music, and festivals.
Culinary Delights
No visit to Montréal is complete without savoring poutine, a quintessential Québécois dish of fries, gravy, and cheese curds. Delight your taste buds at La Banquise, Patati Patata, Chez Claudette, or PoutineVille. Montréal's culinary scene has blossomed with diverse vegetarian and vegan options. Discover delicious offerings at Lola Rosa, Sushis Momo, Lov, La Panthère Verte, or Aux Vivres. From Japanese fare at Kazu to Persian cuisine at Nilufar, and Vietnamese delicacies at Ha, Montréal's global gastronomic scene offers endless delights. Indulge in Spanish tapas at Tapeo, Syrian cuisine at Damas, or authentic Mexican fare at El Rey del Taco. For an upscale dining experience showcasing Québec's terroir, treat yourself to Au Pied de Cochon, Toqué, Club Chasse et Pêche or Vin Papillon. You can also explore the lively ambiance and eclectic culinary scene by leisurely walking along Crescent Street or Sainte-Catherine Street, near the conference hotel.
Drinks in Montréal
Montréal boasts a vibrant bar and speakeasy scene. Imbibe unique cocktails at Cloak Bar, Mal Nécessaire, Bar George, Big in Japan, or Atwater Cocktail Club. Coffee aficionados will find bliss at Café Parvis, Café Myriade, Café St-Henri, or Humble Lion.
Discovering Montréal's Charms
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Located on Crescent Street in downtown Montréal, a public work of art capturing the heart, soul, intelligence, and humility of Leonard Cohen. |
A city of nature and culture, Montréal offers a plethora of attractions. Explore world-class museums – most of which are near the conference hotel – such as the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts (MBAM), the Museum of Contemporary Art, McCord Museum, Pointe-à-Callière Museum, or Redpath Museum at McGill University's picturesque campus, as well as the renowned Canadian Centre for Architecture. Experience Canada's biodiversity at Space for Life, comprising the planetarium, botanical garden, insectarium, and Montréal Biodome. Enjoy Montréal's summer vibes at parks like Lafontaine Park, Parc Jean-Drapeau, or Maisonneuve Park near the Olympic Stadium. Don't miss Jean-Talon Market for local delicacies or the Fleuve-Montagne promenade for panoramic city views spanning multiple neighborhoods.
Events taking place during the conference
Every Sunday, witness Montréal's relaxed communal spirit at the Tamtams in Mount Royal Park, where locals gather for percussion jam sessions and leisurely vibes. Music enthusiasts can groove at IleSoniq Montréal or Piknic Électronik, featuring old-school and emerging DJs every summer Sunday. Celebrate LGBTQ+ pride at Fierté Montréal from August 1st to 11th, or immerse yourself in Italian culture at ItalfestMTL. Honor Indigenous cultures at the International First People's Festival.
Catch the thrilling finale of L’International des Feux Loto Québec at La Ronde or
join locals for fireworks displays under the Jacques Cartier Bridge or other popular sites.
We are excited that you are coming to Montréal!
Anick Desrosiers
McGill University
Chair, Local Arrangements Committee, 2023-2024
