It’s a place that’s been bringing people together for generations.
In the middle of the St. Lawrence River in Montreal there’s the iconic Parc Jean-Drapeau on Île Sainte-Hélène and Notre Dame Island.
The park is made up of Jean-Doré Beach, hiking trails and iconic places like the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, which hosts the annual Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix. The park has also been a venue for major events, like music festival Osheaga –- and the historic Expo 67.
And this year they’re celebrating their 150th anniversary.
“They live some really vibrant and great experiences when they come,” said Josée Chiasson, deputy general manager of the Société du parc Jean-Drapeau. “And that’s what we want to keep on going.”
“The history of the park is very long,” she added. “What we want to create this year is actually to create new memories.”
“We’re having new major events.”
One of the events –- was already a hit last weekend: The Parasol Parté.
Their sandcastle contest, and live painting – revamping the beaches bar – was a splash!
That party continues this weekend too – with Latin rhythms.
“Dance classes, also a giant piñata that where people will be having fun around,” explained Chiasson.
For thrill-seekers, the festivities will continue in the shadows of the Biosphere for their “Lune Noire” event at the end of October.
But before then, at the end of August, the park will be the place to be for foodies.
“Les Rendez-vous gourmands” event will feature renowned chefs and local restaurateurs at Jean Drapeau’s Floralies Gardens.
“When we talk about the Parc Jean-Drapeau,” said Chiasson. “Everyone has a story to tell about the park.”
Devoted to entertainment and recreation, the renowned site opened its doors in 1874.
And fun fact: until the creation of the Jacques Cartier Bridge in 1930, visitors were taking a steamboat to get to the park.
From their outdoor amphitheater –- which can accommodate up to 65,000 people -– to their aquatic complex –- covering over 3500 square meters –- to the Montreal Casino and La Ronde — the park seems to have something for everyone to enjoy.
“Parc Jean-Drapeau is accessible, it’s five minutes from downtown,” explained Chiasson. “You can come by bike, you can come by boat actually.”
“There’s no reason to not come and visit the two islands,” she added. “There’s a lot of treasure to discover.”
Reminiscing on memories you may have made there to making new ones -– the full anniversary programming is available on Parc Jean Drapeau’s website