After a whirlwind visit to POP Montréal, the magic of the festival lingers, even as I navigate my way back through the border. Dressed in my denim jacket and sporting remnants of a burger (thanks to some quick road snacks), I find myself recounting my experience to a skeptical border agent.
POP isn’t your typical music festival; it’s an eclectic mashup of music, art, and culture that takes over the city for a vibrant few days. Artists like Thanya Iyer swept me off my feet with her ethereal sound, blending future folk vibes with swirling synths and jazzy beats. Meanwhile, legendary rocker Michel Pagliaro reminded me of rock’s rich history in Québec, performing hits that resonate through generations.
From rooftop concerts to dog fashion shows, this festival has something for everyone. The Mile End neighborhood buzzed with art installations and screenings, showcasing both emerging and celebrated talents. I even found myself raving about bands like TEKE::TEKE while trying to maintain the border agent’s interest—let’s just say, he was more intrigued by the idea of a dog fashion show than my musical recommendations!
If you missed the action this year, Montréal’s not slowing down any time soon. There are plenty more festivals on the horizon, like Festival SPASM, celebrating quirky short films, and the M for Montréal, marking its 20th anniversary with an incredible lineup. For classical lovers, the Festival International Bach Montréal runs from mid-November through early December. So whether you’re up for discovering new sounds or enjoying a bit of culture, Montréal has something that’ll spark your interest!
