Where the city comes alive during race weekend
For one weekend, Montreal takes on a completely different rhythm. Packed terraces, luxury cars, DJs and celebrations that continue well into the night, the entire city embraces the energy of Grand Prix weekend. Here are a few essential stops to experience the excitement, see and be seen, and fully immerse yourself in the festivities.
To fully experience the energy of race weekend, a stop on Crescent Street is essential. During the festival, the street becomes pedestrian-only and fills with racing enthusiasts, visitors and Montrealers all drawn to the atmosphere. Live music, DJs, driver appearances, exotic cars and crowded terraces give the area a festive energy from morning well into the night.
In the heart of Old Montreal, Bord’elle is one of the weekend’s most sought-after destinations, known for its burlesque evenings inspired by grand European cabarets. DJs, aerial performances and champagne towers set the tone throughout the celebrations. Don’t miss Friday’s opening party, A Very Gatsby Race Week, expected to be one of the highlights of the weekend.
To experience the excitement of Grand Prix celebrations late into the night, head to La Voûte. Set inside the former vault of the Royal Bank, the venue impresses as much with its grand architecture as with its refined atmosphere. Throughout the weekend, evenings unfold around DJs, champagne and festive dinner experiences.
Impossible to talk about Grand Prix celebrations without mentioning Yoko Luna. Inspired by a futuristic Neo-Tokyo universe, the venue stands out for both its spectacular design and unmistakable energy. For race weekend, Yoko Luna hosts a series of special evenings where bold Nikkei-inspired cuisine gradually gives way to internationally renowned DJs and one of the city’s most electric nightlife atmospheres.
With its intimate atmosphere, refined design and sophisticated energy, HANG attracts an elegant crowd looking for a more elevated way to celebrate during race week. The restaurant revisits Vietnamese cuisine through a contemporary lens, paired with impeccably crafted cocktails and an experience that slowly transforms into a supper club as guest DJs take over the night.
At Soubois, race week unfolds underground inside a surreal forest-inspired setting. Guests come as much for the new Italian restaurant Sotto by Soubois as for the immersive evenings and guest DJs that gradually transform the venue into one of the city’s most theatrical nightlife experiences.
Once the races are over, the celebrations continue at Parc Jean-Drapeau. This new festival-style experience transforms Grand Prix evenings into an open-air music event by the water, blending live performances by Canadian artists with the energy of Formula 1 weekend.