In the summer, Montreal is entirely different from the snowy, freezing landscape students endure in winter. The streets come alive with festivals, patios overflow with laughter, and every park is filled with music, picnics, and sunbathers. Whether you're a local or an international student, summer is the perfect time to explore the city on a budget. From free festivals to cheap eats and outdoor adventures, here’s how to make the most of Montreal summers as a student.

1. Enjoying Montreal’s Summer Festivals for Free

One of the best things about Montreal summers? The city is packed with festivals—and many of them are free!

Montreal Jazz Festival

Montreal hosts the world’s largest jazz festival, attracting top-tier musicians from around the globe. The best part? Tons of outdoor concerts are free! You can catch live music at the Quartier des Spectacles, right in the heart of downtown. Pro tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot and enjoy the electric atmosphere!

Just for Laughs Festival

If you love comedy, you can’t miss Just for Laughs! While ticketed shows can be pricey, there are plenty of free street performances and outdoor comedy acts in the Quartier des Spectacles. Some big-name comedians also do surprise pop-up shows, so watch social media for last-minute announcements.

Osheaga – How to Enjoy it on a Budget

Osheaga is Montreal’s biggest music festival, but it’s also expensive. Luckily, you can still experience the festival atmosphere without paying hundreds for tickets!

• Volunteer for a free pass: Many festivals offer free admission in exchange for a few hours of volunteering.
• Pre-festival events: Osheaga hosts free shows around the city before the main event. Check their website for details!
• Listen from outside: Many students set up at nearby parks and listen to the music for free.

MURAL Festival – Street Art & Urban Culture

Montreal’s famous Plateau neighborhood becomes an open-air art gallery during the MURAL Festival. You can watch street artists create giant murals in real-time, attend free DJ sets, and explore pop-up art exhibits without spending a dime.

2. Outdoor Activities on a Student Budget

When the sun is out, Montreal is best explored outdoors! And you don’t have to spend much to enjoy it.

Picnics and Hangouts in Mont-Royal Park

Montreal’s most famous park is the ultimate summer hangout spot for students. Bring some snacks and a speaker, and chill with friends. Don’t miss:

• Tam-Tams on Sundays: A free weekly drum circle where hundreds of people gather to dance, play music, and soak in the summer vibes.
• Sunset views at the lookout: Hike up Mont-Royal for one of the best sunset views in the city!

Biking Around the City

Montreal is one of the most bike-friendly cities in North America, and cycling is a fun, cheap way to explore.

• Rent a BIXI bike (student discounts available!) and ride along the Lachine Canal or La Fontaine Park.
• If you have your bike, take a scenic ride along the St. Lawrence River or explore Jean-Drapeau Island.

Exploring the Old Port

The Old Port is a must-visit in the summer and offers plenty of free or cheap activities:

• Watch street performers and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
• Catch the fireworks at La Ronde (you can see them from the Old Port without paying for park admission).
• Try paddleboarding or relax at Clock Tower Beach for a low-cost beach day in the city.

Day Trips to Nearby Beaches

Need a break from the city? Grab some friends and head to:

• Oka Beach: Just a short bus ride from Montreal, it’s perfect for a cheap beach day.
• Jean-Doré Beach: Located on Parc Jean-Drapeau, this beach offers affordable swimming and sunbathing.
• Free outdoor pools: Montreal has plenty of public pools—check out Parc Laurier or Jarry Park for an utterly free swim!

3. Cheap Eats and Summer Drinks

Good food doesn’t have to break the bank! Montreal has plenty of student-friendly options for summer dining.

Best Student-Friendly Terraces & Rooftop Bars

Patios are a summer staple in Montreal, but some places are more affordable than others:

• Bar de Courcelle (cheap drinks, live music)
• Terrasse St-Ambroise (affordable craft beer, beautiful view)
• Le Sainte-Élisabeth (hidden courtyard terrace, great atmosphere)

Affordable Ice Cream & Food Trucks

Nothing says summer like ice cream! Try these student-approved spots:

• Kem Coba (famous for its unique flavors)
• La Diperie (budget-friendly soft serve)
• Havre-aux-Glaces (delicious gelato at Jean-Talon Market)

Check out Montreal's food trucks for a cheap and delicious meal. They are at festivals and parks throughout the summer!

Markets for Picnic Groceries

Instead of eating out, grab cheap and fresh ingredients from Montreal’s public markets:

• Jean-Talon Market (affordable fruits, cheeses, and bakery items)
• Atwater Market (perfect for grabbing picnic snacks before heading to the Lachine Canal)

4. Summer Nightlife Without Breaking the Bank

Montreal’s nightlife is legendary, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy it!

Free or Cheap Outdoor Concerts & Events

• Les Francos de Montréal: Free French music concerts in the Quartier des Spectacles.
• Free movie nights in the park: Various parks screen outdoor movies—bring a blanket and some snacks!

BYOB Spots & Affordable Bars

• La P’tite Grenouille (cheap beer, great atmosphere)
• McKibbin’s Pub (student-friendly deals)
• Casa del Popolo (indie music venue with affordable drinks)

Hostels & Student Residences for Social Events

If you have friends visiting, check out student-friendly hostels like M Montreal, which host cheap social events and pub crawls.

5. Hidden Gems and Offbeat Summer Adventures

Looking for something different? Here are some less touristy ways to enjoy summer in Montreal:

Secret Rooftop Hangouts

• Belvédère Kondiaronk (less crowded than Mont-Royal lookout)
• Café SAT’s rooftop terrace (hidden gem for cheap drinks)

Exploring Montreal’s Graffiti & Underground Art Scene

Check out:

• Rue St-Laurent’s hidden murals
• Indie music shows in Mile End lofts
• DIY art spaces like Never Apart

Lesser-Known Parks & Chill Spots

• Jarry Park (great for frisbee, picnics, and relaxing)
• Parc des Rapides (a peaceful riverside escape)
• Parc Laurier (free public pool and BBQ areas)

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Summer Before Winter Returns!

Montreal summers fly by fast, so get outside, explore, and enjoy everything the city offers! Whether it’s festivals, picnics, biking, or nightlife, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly student activities.

To stay updated on free events, follow local event calendars (such as the MTL Blog and Cult MTL).

Now, go out and make the most of your summer in Montreal!