Notre-Dame Basilica, with its deep-blue vault and golden altarpiece, is the most spectacular church in Montreal and the heart of Christmas in Old Montreal. Here’s how to experience Christmas at the basilica.
Key facts
- Where: 110 Notre-Dame Street West, Old Montreal, facing Place d’Armes
- Metro: Place-d’Armes
- Website: basiliquenotredame.ca
Christmas Eve masses
In past years, the basilica has celebrated Christmas Eve masses at 9:30 p.m. and at midnight, with music by the basilica’s musicians and singers. Tickets have been sold in advance on the basilica’s website. Check for the 2026 schedule in early December and arrive early. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Christmas concerts
The basilica hosts holiday concerts throughout December. In 2026, the Orchestre Métropolitain presents Noël choral à la Basilique on Tuesday, December 8, at 7:30 p.m. (tickets from $28). See all Christmas concerts.
AURA
AURA, an immersive light and sound show inside the basilica, runs in the evenings all year. It’s a memorable way to see the interior, especially on a winter night.
Daytime visits
Guided and self-guided visits let you explore the basilica’s architecture, stained glass and history during the day.
Place d’Armes
Out front, Place d’Armes is decorated with giant illuminated stars for the holidays, one of the most photographed Christmas scenes in Montreal.
Tips
- Book Christmas Eve tickets as soon as they go on sale.
- Dress warmly for waiting outside before mass and concerts.
- Make an evening of it: stroll Saint-Paul Street and Place Jacques-Cartier afterwards. Old Montreal at Christmas
