5 events to enjoy in Montreal on St. Jean Baptiste Day

While St. Jean Baptiste Day started out as a celebration of the Nativity of John the Baptist, it has since taken on a more secular feel. Though the holiday is most observed in Quebec, private members' bills were once introduced to make the event a national holiday. St. Jean Baptiste Day is still very important to Quebec citizens, though, and the following events in Montreal are perfect for those who want to enjoy the holiday.

• Around 8 p.m. on the eve of St. Jean Baptiste Day, Olympic Stadium lights the night sky when a celebratory bonfire is lit at the venue.
• Bonfires were lit 1,000 years ago to recognize the day, but it was around 1638 that these fiery spectacles first started taking place in Canada.
• It's amazing to think that staring at a giant fire can bring thoughts of history to one's mind.

• This grand parade happens on St. Jean Baptiste Day and begins where Rue Sherbrooke East and Place de Lery meet.
• It runs east along Rue Sherbrooke until Parc Maisonneuve is reached.
• The event usually starts around 2:30 p.m. and is one of the most attended happenings having to do with the holiday in Montreal.
• Along with the parade, which can be enjoyed by all ages, there are often interactive stations along the roadway as well.

• Maisonneuve Park hosts the amazing Les Etoiles du Metro around 6:30 p.m.
• You'll definitely hear some great bands here, but keep in mind that the first bands aren't well-known just yet.
• It's around 8:45 p.m. that Le Grand Spectacle begins, and this is when you'll see the really big names in the music industry.

• Even though the event had a noticeable absence in 2013, L'Autre St. Jean has since returned with a vengeance.
• It has had artists ranging from Lisa Leblanc to Random Recipe.
• And, even though entrance to this amazing event won't cost a dime, there are packages available that will provide access to an open bar, a buffet, priority standing areas and even the backstage area.

• Neighbourhoods all across Montreal have their own individual celebrations that often consist of bonfires, food, fireworks, live shows and fun activities for children.
• These often smaller celebrations are a chance to enjoy the national holiday without fighting through the hordes of traffic at major events that are usually frequented by foreign tourists.
• Information on neighbourhood-specific events can usually be found at the La Fete Nationale du Quebec website.