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Montreal in F1 mode: What are the must-see events?

Alexe Fortier

2026-05-20 17:24:13

The weekend of the Lenovo Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix transforms Montreal into a massive playground where speed, music, and nightlife come together.

All across the city, hotels, restaurants, outdoor patios, and clubs are hosting special events inspired by the world of F1, ranging from glamorous parties to immersive experiences, free activities, and exclusive concerts.

Whether you’re a racing enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for the best weekend activities, here are the must-see events to discover during the 2026 Grand Prix festivities in Montreal.

Montreal goes into F1 mode: events you won't want to miss — Crédit: Instagram @flyjinmtl / Instagram @bargeorgemtl

The weekend of the Lenovo Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix transforms Montreal into a massive playground where speed, music, and nightlife come together.

All across the city, hotels, restaurants, terraces, and clubs are hosting special events inspired by the world of F1, ranging from glamorous parties to immersive experiences, free activities, and exclusive concerts.

Whether you’re a racing enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for the best weekend activities, here are the must-see events to discover during the 2026 Grand Prix festivities in Montreal.

Exclusive Grand Prix Experiences - Le Palma

Palma Restaurant, located in Griffintown, will host three exclusive events as part of the 2026 Montreal Grand Prix festivities. On May 20, a special happy hour will welcome race car driver Valtteri Bottas, who will chat with guests in a relaxed setting focused on his wine and his connection to Montreal. On May 21, the evening will be hosted by DJ Tifi, brother of race car driver Nicholas Latifi, for a festive musical atmosphere. On May 22, DJ Purple from Miami, a resident DJ at Bad Bunny’s Gekko restaurant, will take the reins for an electrifying evening. Three exclusive events that promise an intimate and prestigious experience.

ROYALMOUNT Contest

From May 14 to 24, ROYALMOUNT will become a must-visit destination for F1 weekend with the return of the ROYALMOUNT Concours. This free event will feature an impressive lineup of 20 rare supercars and hypercars on display to the public. Visitors will also be able to test a Formula 1 racing simulator presented by Tudor, participate in family-friendly activities such as the Junior Circuit, or enjoy a live artistic performance inspired by automotive design. The event will also feature the popular Cars + Coffee gathering, bringing together collectors, photographers, and car enthusiasts in a festive atmosphere. A series of immersive and cultural activities will round out this celebration of speed in the heart of Montreal.

F1 Weekend at Auberge Saint-Gabriel

To celebrate F1 weekend, Auberge Saint-Gabriel will present an electrifying music lineup featuring several must-see DJs from the nightlife scene. On May 23, the renowned Pepelz will take over the turntables with his energetic open-format style and internationally acclaimed performances. The next day, the Montreal duo The Neighbors, formed by Eli and Meir, will return to get the Auberge rocking with their festive sets, which have become a must-see during the Grand Prix. To wrap up the weekend in style, Purple, fresh off the Coachella stage, will deliver an immersive and high-energy Afro House night on May 24. A glamorous and festive atmosphere awaits visitors in the heart of Old Montreal.

Race Week 2026 at La Voûte

During Grand Prix weekend, La Voûte will become one of the epicenters of Montreal’s nightlife scene with Race Week 2026. Located in the former vault of a historic bank in Old Montreal, this iconic venue will host four evenings combining luxury, fine dining, music, and an international atmosphere. Inspired by major party destinations like Monaco, Miami, and Saint-Tropez, the experience promises world-renowned DJs, an international crowd, and a unique immersive atmosphere. Guests will enjoy a festive dinner accompanied by entertainment and performances before the evening transforms into an electrifying celebration lasting into the early hours of the morning. A high-end experience designed to fully embrace the energy of F1 weekend.

The Grid at Cathcart

Le Cathcart and La Voûte are joining forces on May 23 to present the first edition of The Grid, a daytime festival inspired by Grand Prix weekend. Held in the heart of downtown Montreal, the event will offer a festive atmosphere from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a lineup featuring both international acts and local artists. Headlining the event, Swiss electronic duo Mont Rouge promises an energetic set driven by their melodic hits, recognized on the global stage. Aaron Hyper, Andrew Pololos, Markos, and Ghostie will round out this unique musical day. With a Formula 1 vibe, electronic music, and an urban setting, The Grid is shaping up to be one of the weekend’s must-see events.

SAND STORM at the Richmond

From May 21 to 23, Le Richmond will host SAND STORM, an immersive event presented as part of Grand Prix weekend. Located in Griffintown, this series of evening events promises an electrifying atmosphere inspired by the unique energy of F1 in Montreal. With its spectacular decor, pulsating music, and festive atmosphere, SAND STORM aims to offer an experience where visitors become part of the action rather than mere spectators. Presented in collaboration with McLaren Montreal, the event will bring together nightlife enthusiasts, car lovers, and partygoers in a high-energy atmosphere for three consecutive nights. Tickets are already on sale and are expected to sell out quickly.

No-Dance Party: After Dark Night

The prestigious Ritz-Carlton Montreal will host Bal Interdit: Soirée After Dark on Friday, May 22, 2026. Presented by Mercedes-Benz Canada, this exclusive event promises a chic and mysterious evening at one of the city’s most iconic venues. With a glamorous atmosphere, surprise appearances, and hand-picked guests, this immersive party is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated social events of F1 weekend.

Organizers Maddy and Katia are crafting a sophisticated experience where music, elegance, and festive energy will converge in a spectacular historic setting. With limited tickets available, the event is already drawing the attention of Montreal’s high-end partygoers.

The Château Champlain Paddock

From May 20 to 24, Le Paddock Château Champlain will offer a series of immersive experiences at the heart of Montreal’s F1 weekend. The hotel will host a festive program combining fine dining, music, and entertainment across several iconic venues. Visitors will be able to attend a masquerade party at Café Conç, enjoy DJ sets at the Belvu Terrace and Lloyd’s restaurant, or discover an exclusive menu featuring lobster. Themed brunches, a racing simulator, an official merchandise store, and several immersive installations will round out the experience. A program designed to immerse visitors in the glamorous and festive atmosphere of the Grand Prix.

Alizé Terrace Oyster Special

From May 22 to 24, Terrasse Alizé will host Formule Huîtres, an event specially designed to celebrate Grand Prix weekend in a summery and elegant atmosphere. Located in the heart of Montreal, the terrace will feature a BBQ menu, an oyster bar, and a musical lineup curated by guest DJs. Visitors will also be able to enjoy bottle and champagne service in a festive atmosphere inspired by the energy of F1. With fine dining, music, and a chic ambiance, Formule Huîtres promises to become a must-see for those who want to experience the Grand Prix in a different way, in a vibrant urban setting.

FLY1 Circuit at Flyjin

From May 20 to 24, Flyjin will host Circuit FLY1, an immersive nightlife experience created for Montreal’s F1 weekend. Presented by House of 10 and Belvedere Vodka, the event will completely transform the famous Montreal venue with an atmosphere inspired by the world’s biggest international parties. The experience promises a lineup focused on spontaneity, energy, and music in a setting redesigned for the occasion. With its immersive atmosphere and cosmopolitan crowd, Circuit FLY1 aims to offer a sophisticated and electrifying alternative to the traditional Grand Prix festivities. A series of exclusive parties that will appeal to both nightlife enthusiasts and F1 fans alike.

F1 Weekend at Bar George

From May 21 to 24, Bar George will transport visitors to an Egyptian oasis for the F1 weekend. Each evening, a different musical lineup will liven up the famous Montreal venue with local and international DJs from Miami, Cannes, and beyond. Guest artists include JPfeiffer, The Neighbors, Ange Palmer, and Pat Boogie. In an atmosphere inspired by luxury and exoticism, the evenings promise music, cocktails, and a festive vibe until the wee hours of the morning. With its elegant decor and diverse lineup, Bar George once again establishes itself as a must-visit destination during the Grand Prix celebrations.

F1GPCanada 2026 Experience

For the 2026 Formula 1 Lenovo Canadian Grand Prix, Bell GPCanada promises an immersive and festive experience at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. Designed to simplify travel and maximize visitor enjoyment, this year’s event highlights the F1GPCanada mobile app, which features schedules, mobile tickets, a site map, and real-time notifications. Fans will be able to enjoy interactive activities, relaxation zones, photo booths, car exhibitions, and numerous food and beverage areas. The Bell Village will also offer speed-inspired experiences and a tribute to Gilles Villeneuve, while the CGV Experience will combine concerts, exclusive panels, and race viewings in a unique setting at Jean-Doré Beach.

A Stop at the Wells – Eaton Centre, Montreal

From May 20 to 24, the Eaton Centre in Montreal is hosting a new edition of L’arrêt aux puits, a free, immersive experience inspired by the world of Formula 1. Located in the heart of downtown, the event features interactive activities such as racing simulators, a digital reflex wall, an AI photo booth, and remote-controlled car races. Visitors will also be able to discover technological experiences by Moment Factory at the Playbox Centre. With its pop-up shop dedicated to Gilles Villeneuve and its programming accessible to all, L’arrêt aux puits stands out as an unmissable family-friendly and festive event during F1 weekend.

Spice Circuit – India Rosa

During the F1 weekend, India Rosa restaurants are offering the Spice Circuit, a high-end dining experience designed to be shared. Available from May 21 to 24, this tasting menu, priced at $180 per person, includes a bottle of Pol Roger champagne, Indian-style oysters, and a tasting platter featuring Quebec lamb, octopus, lobster, and shrimp. The meal concludes with a refined sweet treat featuring notes of cardamom or chai. Available at several locations, including Griffintown, this experience combines modern Indian cuisine with a festive atmosphere, featuring a special DJ lineup to complement the Grand Prix vibe.

BFRÖZ Boxing Night – Laval Coliseum

On June 27, the Colisée de Laval will host the BFRÖZ Boxing Event presented by New Era Sports & Entertainment. Headlining the card, the legendary Jean Pascal, a five-time former world champion, will face Francis Lafrenière in a bout contested as part of the NABA Gold Championship. Nicknamed the “People’s Champ,” Lafrenière could be fighting the last bout of his career, adding an emotional element to this highly anticipated matchup. The evening will kick off with amateur bouts starting at 4 p.m., followed by professional bouts beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $55, promising an electrifying night for boxing fans.