Holiday Guide: 12 Days of Christmas

What to do in Montreal this holiday season

Montreal is one of the most fabulous cities in the world and the holiday season makes it that much better. The city is transformed into an illuminated winter wonderland decked out in Christmas spirit. Get the most out of the merriest season with my holiday guide to Montreal. You might even run into me the next time you are out!

Every year since I’ve been a little girl, at the first signs of Christmas, I take the time to visit the magical Ogilvy window. For children and those young at heart, this window is something to look forward to every year, not to mention I can’t resist popping into Ogilvy for some quick holiday shopping!

1307 Saint-Catherine St W

During the holidays, it’s always nice to gift a little bit of luxury, especially when that luxury also keeps you warm when Montreal gets chilly. Eläma is a line of sophisticated fashion-forward fur that is not only sustainable, but ethical and Canadian-made.

2125 rue de la Montagne or Rockland shopping centre pop-up in TMR

Housed in the lavish Mount Stephen Hotel, Bar George is the epitome of the sophisticated Golden Square Mile. With beautiful decor and heavy wood, Bar George is a great way to travel back in time and enjoy exquisite cocktails. The modern British bistro menu is also perfect to warm you up on a cold day; for a real treat, I suggest the devils on horseback or the tuna crudo.

1440 rue Drummond

My home away from home in Westmount, Victoria Park is an all-in-one destination with a gym, spa, medi spa and three of Antonio Parks’ world-renowned restaurants. Rated as one of the best health clubs in North America, you can find me there at least five days a week doing one of their amazing classes. If you haven’t already tried one of their classes, try a spin class with Drea, a pilates class or a barre class with the move barre girls.

376 Victoria Ave #400, Westmount

After a good workout, I usually treat myself to a great coffee or a pastry at Café Bazin. Bertrand Bazin and Antonio Park are a winning duo. Everything from the lunch menu to the take-out pastries is top notch.

380 Victoria Ave, Westmount

In my spare time, I love to read a good cookbook, try a new recipe and cook for friends and family, especially during the holidays! Appetite for Books is located in the Victoria village and is a wonderful little shop with a variety of cookbooks. Not only can you pick up a book, but you can also take cooking classes by Chef Johnathan. A tip for the locals: they even offer knife sharpening.

388 Victoria Ave, Westmount

The holidays usually make us think of Christmas, but there’s nothing better than Jewish comfort food during the cold winter season. Arthurs is truly a taste of Jewish tradition. Great for a weekend brunch if you’re willing to wait, or opt for a weekday brunch when it is less busy. There are great options for someone looking for something hearty or healthy. My tops picks are the traditional and tasty Latke Smorgasbord, or for a lighter option try the #KGMTL Salad.

4621 Notre-Dame St W

During the holidays, Espace Pepin is transformed into the most beautiful holiday market. A great place to pick up locally-made Christmas gifts, I tend to get lost in the shop for hours. They also offer amazing workshops to bring out the creative side in every adult, so stop by if you get the chance.

350 Saint-Paul St W, Old Montreal

Montreal has a plethora of wine bars. Le Rouge Gorge, located in the hustle and bustle of Mount Royal, is a sophisticated yet relaxed place to grab a glass of wine after a long day of shopping, or a wonderful place to grab a light bite with friends and catch up over the holidays.

1234 Mont-Royal Ave E

The holidays are all about getting together with friends and loved ones and sharing good food and treats. I am a true gourmand and nothing makes me happier than giving the gift of food. Bleu et Persillé is a wonderful little shop, perfect for all your culinary needs. It has the best selection of cheese in the plateau (even for vegans!) and the friendly staff have wonderful suggestions to bring your platters to the next level. A must for all your holiday parties.

1475 Mont-Royal Ave E

During the holidays, you have to take a moment to relax and a nice way to relax is with a chic cup of tea. The Kusmi Tea store is a great destination to enjoy a tea or pick up a holiday gift.

3875 St Denis or Carrefour Laval pop-up

The holiday season is all about giving back and nothing puts me in the holiday spirit like The Nutcracker. I am a huge fan of the Grand Ballet Canadien and The Nutcracker; tickets to a show are a creative and different gift and a great way to show my appreciation to friends, family and clients.

If you would like to shop while giving back, stop by the Nutcracker Market between November 30 and December 10 to do your Christmas shopping. Proceeds go to the Nutcracker Fund for Children, which provides children from disadvantaged neighbourhoods and sick children from the metropolitan area the chance to participate in educational workshops and attend a free performance of The Nutcracker. In addition, the Fund supports the production of the show, allowing the restoration of Peter Horne’s sets and of the legendary François Barbeau’s costumes.

This will be the 8th year the Nutcracker Market raises money thanks to the exhibitors contributing 10% of their proceeds and to the profits generated by Les Grands Ballets kiosk, by works created by children during educational workshops and by raffle tickets during the event.

Palais des Congrès de Montreal, Merchant Hall, 1001 Jean Paul Riopelle Pl

Every year I take the time to reflect on how fortunate I am to have such amazing clients and have incredible success year after year. This success is because of you, your constant referrals and continued trust in me. This year I have chosen to make a donation to the Nut Cracker Foundation in honor of all of you. Thank you for your support and may 2018 be an even bigger and better year for us all!