Six cultural picks for the weekend: Jazz Fest opens, Comic-Con debuts, traditional music across Quebec
From Patrick Watson's headlining performance Friday to a 350-artist free concert series in Laval, here's where to spend your time before Monday.
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Montreal and the surrounding region are packed with cultural events this weekend. Here are standout options:
Patrick Watson at Montreal Jazz Fest (Friday, Place des Festivals). The Montrealer just won the Jazz Fest Spirit Prize and headlines Friday night with guests including Martha Wainwright, Klô Pelgag, November Ultra, Solann, and acrobat Yoann Bourgeois.
Free classical concerts at Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal (Saturday, 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m.). The Orchestre classique de Montréal performs hourly concerts throughout the day. Family-friendly and no ticket required.
Zones musicales opens in Laval (Saturday onwards, through August 23). The 11th edition of this free concert series launches with over 350 artists performing across Laval's parks and public spaces. Opening acts at Parc Bernard-Landry include Zachary Richard on Saturday and Mixmania alumni on Sunday.
Montreal's Comic-Con (Friday–Sunday, Palais des congrès). Superhero and geek culture takes over with celebrity appearances including Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future), Ron Perlman (Hellboy), and Elizabeth Tulloch (Superman & Lois). Cosplay competition Saturday, indie video game zones, tabletop gaming, and artist vendor hall.
Les Arts s'invitent au Jardin opens (Sunday, Jardin botanique). Stéphane Archambault (Mes Aïeux frontman) performs in his first solo appearance since the band's hiatus. The series continues every Sunday through August 23. The Jardin also hosts Les MiniSamedis—free performances for young audiences on the four Saturdays in July.
Festival Chants de Vielles in Saint-Antoine-sur-Richelieu (Friday–Sunday). Eighty traditional music artists celebrate folk traditions from Canada and Europe. Headliners include Édith Butler, Los Vega, and Le Vent du Nord. Former Devoir critic Normand Baillargeon leads a conference on tradition and education.
