February Events in Montreal

Montreal in February is far more vibrant than you might expect from a glance at the weather forecast, which admittedly can be on the chilly side this time of year. Yet Montreal events in February include major outdoor attractions like the annual Festival of Lights or skiing on the region's slopes.

The key to loving February in Montreal, or winter anywhere in Canada, is to embrace the season for what it is, which is cold. You should dress in layers and proper winter gear, especially if you're heading to the mountains.

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Skiing in February

Quebec skiing — Glenn Van Der Knjiff / Getty Images

Montreal is within driving distance from some of the best ski resorts in all of Eastern Canada. Some of the best slopes—and most popular—near Montreal are in the Laurentians, including the famous Mont Tremblant and Mont Blanc resorts. Even closer is Mont Saint-Sauveur, which is just an hour outside of the city by car. If you're willing to drive a bit farther toward Quebec City, then the Charlevoix region with world-famous resorts such as Le Massif is well-worth the extra time in the car.

While the resorts are fully operational in February, be aware that some days are so bitingly frigid that skiing isn't very comfortable and may even be unsafe between the wind chill and icy patches on the mountains. Temperatures may drop to as low as minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 20 degrees Celsius), so check conditions on the mountains before planning your trip.

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Winter Accommodations in February

Montreal winter hotels include these choice Montreal convention centre Palais des congrès accommodations. — Yves Marcoux / Getty Images

If you're visiting the city in February, you'll need a place to stay. You should consider booking a room at one of these top Montreal winter hotels, which are perfect for braving the cold while having an unforgettable visit to the city.

Alternately, you could stay in Old Montreal's top-rated accommodations—just be aware that it's a little tricky to get around the historic city center after a heavy snowfall. Luxury hotels and boutique hotels closer to downtown may be easier to work with as home bases.

Other choice winter accommodations include hotels near Palais des Congrès, which are all either connected to or in close proximity to the Underground City and close to Chinatown—a great spot for cheap eats.

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Valentine's Day

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts — George Rose / Getty Images

As of February 2021, non-essential businesses in the province of Quebec are closed down until further notice, and there is a province-wide curfew every evening beginning at 8 p.m.

Montreal can be a city of romance, even in the dead of winter, which is why it may come as no surprise that there are several great ways to impress your special someone this Valentine's Day in the city. You can take a guided trek up Mount Royal complete with hot cocoa or mulled wine, soak in the rooftop Mont Tremblant Hilton pool, or spend the day browsing through fine art at the Redpath Museum or the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

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Fête des Neiges

The Fête des Neiges is canceled in 2021.

Taking place at Parc Jean-Drapeau, the Fête des Neiges (Snow Festival) is an annual celebration of winter merriment. Families are invited to play outdoors where they can enjoy an array of activities including workshops, demonstrations, live performances, costumed characters, and sporting events.

Other entertainment options include the skater's trail, an ice skating rink; the ice boat with a live captain that interacts with guests; a labyrinth that families must navigate through; snowshoe tours; and dog sledding.

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The Montreal Chocolate Show

Free things to do in Montreal in February 2016 include chocolate festival Je t'aime en chocolat. — Je t'aime en chocolat

The Montreal Chocolate Show is canceled in 2021.

Also known as Je t'aime en Chocolate, which first debuted at Old Montreal's Marché Bonsecours, the Montreal Chocolate Show takes place each year in February and features some of the finest handmade confections in the country.

The event features a chocolate market, workshops at the Academy of Chocolate, a Chocolate Show, and a MINI Valentine's Day Parade featuring costumed kids.