It’s wild to think that another year has come and gone. In 2026, I’ll be heading into my 16th year of blogging, which feels completely surreal. What began as a way to share my early motherhood days with a newborn, who is now somehow weeks away from getting her driver’s license, has grown into a place where I share monthly family activity ideas, local finds, and the occasional family travel adventure.
With three kids and a full-time job, I don’t always blog or post as often as I’d like, but this passion project is still coming with me into the new year. So let’s start 2026 with plenty of ways to stay warm, busy, and entertained in Montreal with kids this January.
Exporail Iron & Ice – January 2 – February 1
I love when a museum visit feels seasonal, and this special Exporail exhibit is all about how winter weather affects the railways. Kids can discover a train snow plow built for snow and ice, learn about the snow trains that once carried skiers to the Laurentian mountains, and explore the rest of the Exporail museum while they’re there.
NBA G League – January 8-9 & February 8-10
Professional basketball is back in Montreal with the NBA G League and Les Nets de Montreal. There are two weekends of games at Place Bell, with matchups against the Wisconsin Herd and the Noblesville Boom. Tickets start at $25, making this a fun option for families who want a sporty night out.
Montreal Auto Show – January 16-25
The Montreal Auto Show is a January classic, and this year I’m especially interested in the new St Hubert Family Zone. The highlight is the electric Ride ‘n drive for kids, where they can try drivable mini-electric cars while learning about sustainability through play. The zone will also include a play area and interactive activities for all ages.
Igloofete – January 17 – February 7
Igloofest may be known for its adult music scene, but Igloofete gives families their own winter afternoons to enjoy. Over four Saturdays at Quai Jacques-Cartier, there will be live musical performances, food trucks, games, activities, and more. The event runs from 1pm to 6pm each weekend and is free for everyone.
Playground Festival – January 21-25
Geordie Theatre is bringing warmth to winter with live theatre and creative activities for kids and families. This 5-day festival includes three different plays: Beyond Belief for ages 6-11, 1984 2061 for ages 12-17, and Celestial Bodies for ages 12+. The stories explore friendship, mental health, body image, and self-discovery.
One of the festival highlights is a free pre-show workshop on January 24th. On Sunday, free childcare will also be offered. Best of all, the festival is pay what you decide, which makes it much more accessible for families.
Fête des Neiges Recreoparc – January 25
Fête des Neiges Recreoparc brings a full winter festival to the town of Sainte Catherine. From 12pm to 4pm, families can enjoy winter challenges, inflatable games, food trucks, animation, and the chance to try some of the on-site activities.
I like that there are options beyond the festival day too, including skating, snowshoeing, and fat bikes, with equipment available to rent any day. Entry for the event is free, though parking is $9.
Olympic Symphony – January 25
Place des Arts is hosting a youth concert with the OSM in celebration of the upcoming Olympics. The show is in French and is a good fit for kids 6+ and adults. The music will include national anthems from around the world, along with other important songs given a sports-inspired twist. Tickets start at $40.
Kirkland Winter Festival – January 30-31
The first winter festival of the season kicks off in Kirkland with a family bingo night on Friday. On Saturday, the fun continues with a family day featuring skating, scavenger hunts, bonfires, food trucks, and more. I’ll also be watching for more community events as February rolls in.
Inspired by this post on Midnight Mom.
