6 JUN to 17 JUL
- Seasonal activities
Lantern‑Making Workshop
for the Lumières de Saint‑Michel Parade
Details
Les Lumières de Saint-Michel
3 Days of Festivities!
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Regular rates starting from
Free
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Duration
3 days
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Audience
All ages
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Location
Different Locations
Join us on August 7, 8 and 9 for the fourth edition of Lumières de Saint‑Michel!
Come celebrate the magic of summer at the fourth edition of Les Lumières de Saint-Michel on August 7, 8 and 9! Three days of festivities await, bringing the neighbourhood to life and gathering people of all ages around free, creative and festive activities.
Program Highlights
- Friday: Kick off the weekend with the Foulée Illuminée, a festive run and walk presented in partnership with parkrun. Whether with family or friends, let the energy of the course carry you along, then extend the evening with dance performances and a lively DJ set. Check out the Foulée Illuminée Guide for all the details.
- Saturday: Take part in the Grand Parade of Lights and watch the magic illuminate the streets of Saint-Michel. The evening will begin with The Legend of the Saint-Michel Lights, a story inspired by the imagination of neighbourhood children, before a procession of lanterns, music and performers lights up the community. Click here to listen to the story.
- Sunday: Wrap up the festivities with a family day filled with wonder. Circus performances, a clown show, interactive workshops and playful entertainment await in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- All weekend long: TOHU will shine with programming for all ages, including lantern-making workshops, free-play activities, a treasure hunt, performances and entertainment in a bright and festive setting.
All activities are free! Don’t miss this signature summer event in Saint-Michel. Come create unforgettable memories and let yourself be carried away by the magic of Les Lumières de Saint-Michel!
Program by Day
Friday, August 7 | 5:45 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Movement takes centre stage! Enjoy a festive evening where dance, music and physical activity come together in a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
- 5:45 p.m. – Event opening, featuring a variety of fun activities across the TOHU site, as well as at Le Bahut, our outdoor resto-bistro.
- 6:00 p.m. – Lantern-making workshop, treasure hunt and free-play zone open, featuring water games and dry games.
- 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – Montreal Krump Alliance — Dance Performance and Battle
An electrifying evening featuring an introductory krump workshop open to everyone, dance battles between emerging youth performers and professional artists, as well as excerpts from the shows Kosmos, Where Else? and SKLTR (Skul-tur). - 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. – The Foulée Illuminée, presented in collaboration with parkrun. See the detailed schedule below. Check out the Foulée Illuminée Guide for all the details.
- 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. – DJ Set — Felix Imbault
After the run, stay and dance the night away! - 11:00 p.m. – Site closes.
Ongoing Activities
- 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. – Live hosting by MC Dame Lys
- 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. – Lantern-making workshop
- 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. – Treasure hunt and free-play zone featuring water games and dry games
Le Bahut Restaurant and Bar
Come enjoy our beautiful covered terrace for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. The kitchen is open until 9:30 p.m., and bar service is available until 11:00 p.m..
The Foulée Illuminée
Join the Foulée Illuminée, a free festive run organized by TOHU and parkrun at Frédéric-Back Park. Untimed and open to everyone, this event offers a luminous and sensory experience to enjoy with family and friends.
Bring your glowing accessories and colourful 1980s-inspired outfits!
Route options (run or walk): 2 km or 6 km
Schedule:
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Participant check-in
7:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. – Clown-inspired warm-up
8:30 p.m. – Start of la Foulée Illuminée
9:00 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. – Participants arrive at the finish line and celebrate their accomplishment.
For more information, including route details and event logistics, please consult the Foulée Illuminée Guide.
Friday Performances
Montreal Krump Alliance
Montreal Krump Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of krump culture in Quebec. Building on a movement that has been rooted in Montreal since the early 2000s, the organization brings together passionate artists, educators and dancers who help showcase this expressive art form at both the local and national levels.
Through cultural, competitive and educational events, Montreal Krump Alliance makes krump accessible to a wide audience while supporting the next generation of artists. Recognized as a key player within the community, the organization fosters connections, knowledge sharing and artistic growth through street dance and its many forms of expression.
Photo credit: Mathieu Lion
Discover Montreal Krump Alliance
Félix Imbault
Félix Imbault is a multidisciplinary Quebec artist with roots in the music world. A graduate of the Jazz and Pop Performance program at Cégep de Joliette, he discovered street theatre in 2010—an encounter that transformed his artistic practice. Trained in Quebec, Arizona and France, he has developed a unique approach that places physical performance, clowning and audience interaction at its core.
A percussionist by training, stilt walker and character creator, Félix has designed more than fifty artistic concepts presented throughout Quebec. Through his shows, performances and workshops, he explores themes such as inclusion, environmental awareness and social equality with sensitivity, creativity, humour and lightheartedness.
Photo credit: Sébastien Chion
Learn more about Félix ImbaultSaturday, August 8 | 5:45 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Lights take centre stage! A magical evening celebrating the creativity of the neighbourhood, culminating in the Grand Parade of Lights through the streets of Saint-Michel.
- 5:45 p.m. – Event opening, featuring a variety of fun activities to discover throughout the TOHU site and at Le Bahut, our outdoor resto-bistro.
- 6:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. – Concert — Wesli
An internationally acclaimed and socially engaged musician, Wesli blends Haitian vodou, rara, twoubadou, Afrobeat and reggae. Born in Port-au-Prince, the singer-songwriter and guitarist is notably the recipient of a JUNO Award for World Music Album of the Year. - 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – Lantern distribution for participants in the Grand Parade of Lights.
- 7:30 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. – Concert — Shnock & Shanti
At Le Bahut. An acoustic duo inspired by rhythms from around the world, blending gypsy-inspired accordion tunes with blues-infused guitar melodies in a warm and welcoming style. - 8:20 p.m. – The Grand Parade of Lights
See details below. - 9:45 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. – DJ Set — DJ Nath with dancers from the Queen & Queer collective
After the parade, stay and dance the night away! A non-binary Colombian DJ, DJ Nath blends Latin rhythms, old-school reggaeton and Afro house into electrifying performances. - 11:00 p.m. – Site closes.
Ongoing Activities
- 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. – Hosted by MC Dame Lys
- 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Lantern-making workshop
- 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – Treasure hunt
- 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. – Free-play zone featuring water games and dry games
Le Bahut Restaurant and Bar
Come enjoy our beautiful covered terrace for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. The kitchen is open until 9:30 p.m., and bar service is available until 11:00 p.m..
Grand Parade of Lights
Saturday, August 8 Evening
A highlight of the event, the Grand Parade of Lights invites the community to illuminate the streets of Saint-Michel during a festive 2.2 km procession starting from TOHU.
The evening begins with The Legend of the Saint-Michel Lights, a story inspired by the Bonhomme Sept Heures and shaped by the collective imagination of local children. Presented by Contes Vivants in collaboration with TOHU, this tale sets the stage for the luminous walk. Curious to discover the legend? Listen to the story by clicking below.
Accompanied by Stonda, LaboKracBoom, Maracatu Raio de Ouro, Les Zoutardes, Zyeux, Grésil, and the young clown performers from the École de Clown et Comédie Zani, the parade then transforms the neighbourhood into a vibrant spectacle of light.
Schedule
7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – Lantern distribution
8:20 p.m. to 8:40 p.m. – The Legend of the Saint-Michel Lights (Contes Vivants)
8:45 p.m. – Departure of the Grand Parade of Lights
Get Ready for Les Lumières de Saint-Michel with Lantern-Making Workshops
In the weeks leading up to Les Lumières de Saint-Michel, join us to create a lantern that will help illuminate the community during the Grand Parade of Lights.
During these workshops, children and adults alike are invited to craft a glowing lantern and tuck inside a secret message, a wish, or a kind note for the person who will carry it on the evening of the parade.
A creative and community-building experience that lets everyone contribute to the magic of Les Lumières de Saint-Michel, one light at a time.
Meet the parade artists!
Stonda: Stonda is a percussion ensemble that creatively blends rhythms from around the world using Brazilian instruments. Through original compositions, energetic choreography and an infectious stage presence, the group transforms every performance into a vibrant celebration where music and movement become one.
École de Clown et Comédie Zani: For more than twenty years, the École de Clown et Comédie Zani has contributed to the growth and visibility of clowning, physical theatre and circus arts in Montreal. For this colourful parade, its artists bring humour, spontaneity and a touch of delightful madness through vibrant characters that invite audiences to laugh, play and embrace the unexpected.
Maracatu Raio de Ouro: Maracatu Raio de Ouro captivates audiences with the powerful Afro-Brazilian traditions of Northeastern Brazil. Made up of about thirty musicians from diverse backgrounds, the ensemble celebrates the rich cultural heritage of maracatu through driving percussion, unifying songs and an irresistible collective energy that inspires celebration and connection.
LaboKracBoom: At the crossroads of circus, dance and physical theatre, LaboKracBoom creates immersive worlds where movement becomes spectacle. Known for its hybrid approach and boundless imagination, the Sherbrooke-based company brings to life surprising characters and living tableaux that captivate audiences and transform public spaces into artistic playgrounds.
Saturday Performances
Wesli
An internationally acclaimed and socially engaged musician, Wesli builds bridges between tradition and modernity, between Haiti and the rest of the world. His art serves as a vehicle for cultural transmission, a heartfelt cry, and a song of freedom.
Wesli’s musical journey is as fascinating as it is inspiring—from crafting a homemade instrument out of an oil can and a nylon string to winning a JUNO Award for World Music Album of the Year. Born Wesley Louissaint in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, he has established himself as a prolific singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer.
Now based in Montreal, Wesli brings together a diverse range of musical talents, blending Haitian vodou and rara traditions with the roots of twoubadou, Afrobeat and reggae. His recordings have featured collaborations with renowned artists such as Tiken Jah Fakoly, AfrotroniX, Mes Aïeux, Paul Cargnello and Radio Radio.
Photo credit: Pierre Tran
Learn more about Wesli
Shnock & Shanti
Shnock & Shanti is an acoustic duo inspired by world rhythms and wandering melodies. Through a rich and heartfelt repertoire, Shanti’s accordion brings playful gypsy-inspired tunes to life, while Shnock’s guitar adds bluesy and gypsy jazz influences.
United by music, travel and years of performing together, the two artists have journeyed across Europe, enriching their musical universe with a wide range of cultural influences. Carried by vocal harmonies and an unmistakable onstage chemistry, their performance invites audiences on a memorable musical journey, blending traditions from around the world with universal emotions.
Photo credit: Maude Touchette
Discover Shnock & Shanti
NATH
NATH is a non-binary Colombian DJ who has become a leading figure in Montreal’s Latin and queer music scene. Since arriving in Montreal, they have developed a distinctive sound that blends urban Latin rhythms, old-school reggaeton, Afro house and powerful female vocals, drawing inspiration from their deep Afro-Colombian roots.
NATH has performed for Afro-Latin and urban Latin audiences in clubs, festivals and community events, helping to showcase the richness and diversity of these cultures. Through dynamic and energetic sets, they celebrate visibility, resilience and the unifying power of electronic and urban music.
Learn more about NATHSunday, August 9 | 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
A grand family finale! Enjoy a festive day filled with circus, clowning and hands-on activities for all ages as we bring Les Lumières de Saint-Michel to a joyful close.
- 11:00 a.m. – Event opens with a variety of fun activities to discover throughout the TOHU site and at Le Bahut, our outdoor resto-bistro.
- 11:00 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. – Show — Bouchées de cirque (Productions Cirkaz)
Served as bite-sized circus performances, this interactive show lets you be both audience member and chef, choosing what you would like to “sample” from the menu! - 11:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Family workshops, activities and entertainment. See the detailed schedule below.
- 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. – Clown Show — École de Clown et Comédie Zani
A colourful performance for the whole family. - 4:00 p.m. – Site closes.
Family Workshops and Entertainment
- 11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. – Poï Workshop — Monsieur Poï
An introduction to poï that is accessible and fun for everyone. - 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. – Entertainment — BIP + Hippolyte
First performance. - 1:15 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Entertainment — BIP + Hippolyte
Second performance. - 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. – Circus Workshop — TOHU Team
A participatory circus workshop led by TOHU guides.
Ongoing Activities
- 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Hosted by MC Dame Lys
- 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Treasure hunt and free-play zone featuring water games and dry games
Le Bahut Restaurant and Bar
Come enjoy our beautiful covered terrace for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. Opening hours to be confirmed.
Sunday Performances
Productions Cirkaz
Since 2012, Productions Cirkaz has been bringing the circus arts to audiences of all ages through performances, workshops and interactive entertainment that inspire wonder and imagination. Led by an all-female management team and supported by a diverse group of talented artists, the company creates playful, inclusive and community-focused experiences.
Jugglers, stilt walkers, clowns and musicians combine their expertise to transform every event into a space for discovery, movement and creativity. Driven by a commitment to making culture accessible to all, Productions Cirkaz invites children and adults alike to share memorable moments of amazement and artistic exploration.
Discover Productions Cirkaz
École de Clown et Comédie Zani
For more than twenty years, École de Clown et Comédie Zani has helped promote and celebrate the arts of clowning, physical theatre and circus in Montreal. For this colourful event, its artists bring humour, spontaneity and a healthy dose of playful mischief through vibrant characters that invite audiences to laugh, play and embrace the unexpected.
With a unique blend of creativity, imagination and audience interaction, École de Clown et Comédie Zani creates joyful experiences that delight children and adults alike.
Learn more about École de Clown et Comédie ZaniAdditional Information
Free entry for everyone.
Beverages and food available on the outdoor square of the TOHU.
Nearest metro: Iberville station.
Bus 20, 94 and 193.
The TOHU public square and the parade route are accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Join the 2026 Lumières team !
If you’re looking for an experience with an organization that allows you to contribute to the development of a project with social, environmental, and artistic values, TOHU is the place for you !
Video highlights from the 2025 edition
Discover the third edition of Lumières de Saint‑Michel 2025 on video.
This event is also made possible thanks to the support of the Government of Canada, the City of Montréal, and the borough of Villeray–Saint‑Michel–Parc‑Extension.
In collaboration with:
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2345, rue Jarry Est,
Montréal (Québec) H1Z 4P3