Montreal’s summer tourism is booming, propelled by a surge in business events, sports competitions, and festivals. Tourisme Montréal reports that the city is on pace to achieve a record-breaking season based on data collected from May to July. The organization’s CEO attributes this success to the diverse range of activities and events that attract visitors to Montreal during the summer months, including music festivals, sports competitions, and cultural experiences.
Yves Lalumière, president and CEO of Tourisme Montréal, describes Montreal as the playground of Canada, emphasizing the city’s appeal for leisure and entertainment. Highlighting the popularity of events like the international jazz festival and the Osheaga music festival, Lalumière also notes the significant increase in conference attendance, with over 50,000 participants in June and July.
In Old Montreal, tourists are seen exploring the historic streets, admiring the architecture, and shopping for souvenirs. Visitors like Kha Nguyen and Connor Brunton from New Jersey express their admiration for the city’s old-world charm and unique atmosphere, different from what they are accustomed to in the United States.
Tourism numbers show a notable increase in travel from the United States and Canada, as well as a rise in international visitors compared to the previous year. Hotel occupancy rates have also surged to 82%, marking a considerable increase from the previous year.
Despite global crises, Montreal’s tourism industry remains resilient, attracting visitors from diverse backgrounds. Sana Srivastava, a shop owner in Old Montreal, reflects on the bustling season and the influx of tourists, particularly drawn to sporting events like the World Cup. Lalumière expresses optimism for continued momentum in the coming months, anticipating a successful season with upcoming events such as the National Bank Open tennis tournament and the Lasso country music festival.