Canadian Formula One (Montreal)
Once a year, race fans of all types convene in Montreal to watch their favorite Formula 1 cars go head to head in the best week-long Grand Prix event of the season. Because there’s so much fun to be had, the event isn’t just about the race, although that’s the biggest part. Race attendees get to experience the best cuisine Montreal has to offer, the hottest nightclubs and party life and a culture exploding with richness.
Situated in the province of Quebec, Montreal is the largest city and sits at the convergence of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa rivers, providing a scenic backdrop and ensuring you’re getting the best waterfront experience around. In 2009, Montreal was crowned the best host city in North America for international events, and there’s little wonder as to why – fine dining, hot shopping destinations and a night life unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
With the Grand Prix race being the crown jewel of race weekend, Formula One enthusiasts from all around the world will be flocking towards this great city on the water for seventy laps of seat-gripping, exhaust-breathing, fist pumping excitement. Tickets are fairly inexpensive, and the race promoters have compiled a list of the best hotels and places to stay, restaurants and clubs to enhance your race weekend with the best of the best.
Taking place in early June, the Formula 1 Grand Prix event of the year is held in the sunny, warm temperatures native to Montreal, with a light breeze from the river taking the sting out of the heat. Since racegoers will be outside most of the time, these are ideal conditions for partaking in the most exciting event the city has to offer.
Where to go During Formula 1 Weekend
Besides watching the race itself, there are many other activities around Montreal celebrating the annual F1 event. As for restaurants (just from personal experience as a Montrealer) be wary of F1 “menu specials” that restaurants offer. The price to food quality ratio can be completely unreasonable. Do some research if possible, there are great restaurants to try in Montreal.
Grand Prix of Canada Festival: Crescent Street
Crescent street closes down every year for the biggest and most popular street party during F1 grand prix weekend. You can watch and enjoy several activities and free outdoor shows every night and day. Montreal is famous worldwide for being the best Forumla 1 racing city. Visit a variety of booths, learn about Grand Prix racing and come party on Crescent Street!
Grand Prix Festival: Saint-Laurent
Saint-Laurent will also be closed to traffic during Grand Prix weekend, where rare and exotic cars, vendor booths, live music and the nightlife that Montreal is famous for will all be competing for your attention.
Popular Weekend = Hotels and Vacation Rentals Booked
Be prepared for your visit by checking out local temperatures and booking your room in advance, as there might not be any rooms available when you arrive (we strongly recommend booking as early as possible). Pack plenty of sunscreen and a rain poncho just in case rainy weather strikes, and get your stomach ready for some of the best Montreal cuisine you’ll ever experience.
