The International des Feux Loto-Québec: the best places to watch the show
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The International des Feux Loto-Québec is a long-standing fixture in the wonderful world of fireworks, and this year will be celebrating its 40th anniversary with the 39th edition of the event. Since its early days, people have been drawn to its magnificent colours and breathtaking effects. For some, watching the show from the comfort of a reserved seat is the pinnacle of pleasure. Others want to be out on the water, aboard a boat, with a drink in hand. Then there are those who just want to sit back in a camping chair for a no-frills experience. Whatever your preference, we have plenty of ideas for you so you don’t miss a thing.
A must-see pyrotechnic show, Montréal’s International des Feux Loto-Québec brings together the biggest fireworks companies every year to put on a pyromusical show at La Ronde amusement park. It’s the world’s biggest and most prestigious international fireworks competition. Although it lights up the sky above Sainte-Hélène Island, the show can easily be seen (and heard!) from many other places.
The paid options are a guaranteed good time
If you wouldn’t miss this event for the world and are willing to pay for a good seat, then read on. Many options are available to you.
First, you can go to the La Ronde site. Seats are associated with day tickets and passes that are valid on special event days. The advantages? You get as close as possible to the action, you get to have fun at the amusement park before the show and you get to hear the music that accompanies the dazzling fireworks display.
Another excellent suggestion that has an exotic feel and is easier on the wallet is the Plage de l’Horloge in the Old Port of Montréal, with its unobstructed view of Sainte-Hélène Island and the St. Lawrence River. Bear in mind, however, that while the beach is a charming, family-friendly oasis of relaxation during the day, it turns into an adults-only nightclub on fireworks nights. Right next door is the Quai de l’Horloge, another prime location.
Is the riverside not exciting enough for you? Would you rather experience the magic of the fireworks from the river itself? You can choose from a wide range of cruises! They can offer refreshments, a full meal, a festive atmosphere with a small crowd, or a more intimate experience in a small boat, but they always provide a great ambiance and, above all, a sense of wonder.
Fireworks enthusiasts will find plenty of terrasses and restaurants to watch the show from. These include the Old Port’s Terrasse sur l’Auberge, the William Gray Hotel’s Perché and the Terrasse Place d’Armes, to name but a few. As for restaurants, the Hiatus is the place to be. Located on the 45th and 46th floors of Place Ville Marie, he Hiatus has a spectacular view of the surroundings.
And what about the Grande Roue de Montréal, open until 11 p.m., which provides a breathtaking bird’s-eye view when you’re at the top of the wheel! Besides the fireworks, it offers a panoramic view of downtown Montréal.
How to enjoy the show without breaking the bank
A time-honoured tradition: the Jacques-Cartier Bridge. The bridge, which is closed to traffic during the show, has been a popular place to view the fireworks from the very first event, with eager spectators gathering in large numbers along the guard rails. To add sound to the picture, just tune into the official radio channel of the event, and it’ll be as if you were at La Ronde. Remember to wear an extra layer, as the river breeze can be chilly even in summer. Want another bridge option? Try Pont de la Concorde, which straddles the river on the western side of Parc Jean-Drapeau.
Another interesting option, which is free if you arrive before 7 p.m., is Village au Pied-du-Courant. Lively, laid-back and open to the public, it’s a social and cultural venue with a festive flair. There are food trucks, bars and artistic installations, perfect ingredients for a great evening!
Finally, people living on Montréal’s South Shore can go to Parc Marie-Victorin in Longueuil. Simply bring your folding chair or blanket, find a spot by the water and enjoy the colourful fireworks without having to drive in traffic.
General information
The International des Feux Loto-Québec: June 26 to July 31, 2025
Duration: 30 minutes