Yes, March can be a good time to visit Montréal for several reasons:
- Cultural events: March hosts many cultural events, including the Montréal Fringe Festival, a showcase for emerging artists, and the Festival international de jazz de Montréal, one of the world’s largest jazz festivals.
- Lower tourist crowds: Compared to peak tourist seasons, March generally sees fewer visitors, allowing for a more relaxed and less crowded experience.
- Hotel deals: Many hotels offer discounts during this time of year, making it a great opportunity to save on accommodation.
- Early signs of spring: While the weather can still be chilly, March often brings the first signs of spring, with melting snow and blooming flowers in some areas. This can make for picturesque walks and outdoor activities.
Weather In Montréal During March
March Weather in Montréal, Canada
March marks the transition from winter to spring in Montréal, with gradual warming temperatures and increasing sunshine. However, the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional snowstorms or chilly rain.
Temperature:
- Average high: 3-6°C (37-43°F)
- Average low: -3 to 1°C (27-34°F)
- Record high: 21.6°C (71°F)
- Record low: -21.1°C (-6°F)
Precipitation:
- Average rainfall: 60-70 mm (2.4-2.8 inches)
- Average snowfall: 20-30 cm (8-12 inches)
- Precipitation is typically in the form of rain, but snow is still possible, especially early in the month.
Other Weather Conditions:
- Sunshine: 140-150 hours
- Wind speed: 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph)
- Relative humidity: 60-70%
What to Expect:
- Layered clothing: Dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
- Footwear: Choose waterproof or water-resistant footwear for potential rain or snow.
- Umbrella or raincoat: Be prepared for rain, especially in the first half of the month.
- Sunglasses: Bring sunglasses for sunny days.
- Clear skies: Enjoy the increasing number of clear days as the month progresses.
- Snow: Snowfall is possible, but less likely than in previous months.
- Thaw: Snow and ice start to melt, creating muddy conditions in some areas.
Things To Do In Montréal In March
Festivals and Celebrations in March:
- Montreal High Lights Festival (early March): A month-long celebration featuring light projections, interactive installations, and nightly performances illuminating the city center.
- Montréal en Lumière (mid-March): A two-week festival offering culinary events, concerts, art exhibitions, and outdoor activities, including an ice sculpture competition.
- Irish Festival of Montréal (mid-March): A weekend-long event showcasing Irish music, dance, food, and culture.
- Saint Patrick’s Day Parade (mid-March): A lively street procession celebrating Irish heritage with floats, bagpipes, and thousands of participants.
- Festival Accès Asie (late March): A cultural festival highlighting Asian cinema, music, dance, and arts.
Unique Experiences in March:
- Explore Mount Royal: With the snow melting away, March is an ideal time to explore the city’s expansive park, offering scenic views, hiking trails, and tobogganing hills.
- Attend a Maple Syrup Tasting: Visit a sugar shack outside the city for a traditional maple syrup tasting.
- Visit the Jacques Cartier Bridge Skyline Lookout: Ascend to the top of the Jacques Cartier Bridge for panoramic views of the city, including the Old Port and downtown skyline.
- Stroll Through the Old Port: Enjoy a scenic walk along the cobblestone streets and waterfront of the Old Port, admiring historic buildings and quaint boutiques.
- Visit the McCord Museum’s “Irish Montreal” Exhibit: Learn about the significant contributions of the Irish community to the city’s history and culture.
Tourism In Montréal, Canada During March
March in Montréal offers a unique and vibrant tourism experience. With the city’s iconic festivals and events on hiatus, visitors can immerse themselves in the authentic local culture and uncover hidden gems. From exploring charming neighborhoods like Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End to indulging in the city’s renowned culinary scene, there’s a wealth of activities to enjoy. Art enthusiasts can explore the city’s many galleries and museums, while music lovers can catch live performances at intimate venues. Moreover, Montréal’s diverse population and lively nightlife create a cosmopolitan atmosphere that’s both welcoming and captivating.