Friday heat and a packed night—get out there

It's 21 degrees but feels like 29, so that UV is going to bite if you're outside midday—bring sunscreen and a hat if you're hitting the National Bank Open at IGA Stadium this afternoon. The metro's Green line is still running its oldest trains, so if you're headed that way, just know it might be a bit slower. Nothing's getting shut down today, but keep in mind there are major highway closures across the Greater Montreal area this weekend, so if you're thinking of heading out of the city, check your route before you go.

There's a trial resuming today that's been heavy on people's minds locally, and McGill researchers just flagged something worth knowing: the standard liver-fibrosis screening they use for HIV patients has a real gap in it. Not urgent for today, but good to be aware of. Also—heads up on groceries: Costco Canada is recalling some Cadbury Oreo bars and Alfa Croissants over allergen and mould concerns, so check your pantry if you've grabbed either recently.

For dinner, you've got some solid moves. La Soupière just opened on Ste-Catherine West with customizable Sichuan hot pot if you're in the mood for something interactive and spicy. Or if you want to feel like you've landed in Paris without the flight, L'Express on Saint-Denis is still hitting that Parisian bistro vibe. There's also a new specialty café at the Notre-Dame Basilica courtyard—Café Saint-Henri—if you want something quieter and close to Vieux-Montréal.

This is the night to get out. Cirque du Soleil's Echo is running at Jacques Cartier Pier at 4 PM if you want early evening and the light's still good. Roses de Montreal are playing Halifax Tides FC at Stade Boreale at 7 PM if you're a soccer person. For live music, Vendredi Soul Motown Vibes kicks at Le Balcon X Terrasse at 6 PM—that's a solid Friday move if you want something mellow with the sun still up. There's also Pink Floyd—Dark Side of the Moon at Le Dome at 5:30 PM, and Passe VIQ at the Olympic Park at 5 PM if you're after something visual.

Sunset's at 8:14 tonight, so you've got 14 hours and 29 minutes of daylight to work with. Use it. The weekend's here, and it's warm—get yourself out.