With it’s progressive attitudes, hedonistic nightlife and progressive attitudes Montreal’s long been a key North American LGBTQ+ city. And its bilingual character adds an interesting twist to queer life, with its happy mix of Francophone and Anglophone influences.

Some of Montreal’s LGBTQ+ scene is scattered around town, particularly neighbourhoods such as The Plateau, Mile End, and Griffintown (an area of new high rises in reclaimed industrial lands just southeast of Downtown). But the liveliest and most visible location Gay Village centered around Sainte-Catherine Street East and this is where you’ll find the drag shows and biggest LGBTQ+ nightlife venues.

Events

August’s Montreal Pride (Fierté Montréal) is the city’s largest LGBTQ+ celebration, with the usual mix of parties, events, and the hallmark giant parade with its thousands of spectators.