Discover Griffintown Montréal is a tapestry of vibrant neighbourhoods, each steeped in history and brimming with character. Griffintown, once a haven for 19th- century Irish immigrants, has transformed into a dynamic hub for cultural innovation. Griffintown’s Irish Legacy During the mid-19th century, Montréal became a refuge for Irish immigrants fleeing the Irish Famine. Many settled in Griffintown, where an enterprising woman named Mary Griffin had subdivided the area into streets. Over time, this once predominantly Irish enclave evolved into a vibrant, culturally diverse neighbourhood, now known for its thriving art galleries, antique shops and trendy cafés. World Irish Dancing Championships In 2023, Montréal hosted the World Irish Dancing Championships for the second time. This prestigious weeklong event brought over 6,000 participants to the Palais des congrès, including more than 2,500 elite dancers from 23 nations. The championships highlighted the traditions of Irish dance, while celebrating Montréal’s rich Irish heritage. • Montréal’s flag and coat of arms recognize its five founding peoples: Irish, French, English and Welsh, Scottish and Indigenous Peoples Musée Imaginarium Arsenal Montréal welcoming New City Gas Located in the heart of Griffintown in an 1859 industrial building, New City Gas is one of Montréal’s hottest venues. This versatile space offers four halls for corporate events. With indoor and outdoor spaces, including heated terraces, the venue accommodates 1,585 guests for everything from concerts to conferences. Musée Imaginarium Musée Imaginarium is a vibrant playground and a selfie enthusiast’s dream, featuring 16 colourful, film-inspired sets. From a lush tropical forest to a whimsical, psychedelic bathroom, each space offers a unique visual experience. Ideal for immersive private events, Musée Imaginarium accommodates up to 100 guests for parties or creative gatherings. Arsenal Contemporary Art Montréal Arsenal Contemporary Art Montréal has turned a former 19th-century shipyard into a premier cultural showcase for contemporary art, dynamic exhibitions, events and performances. The 7,432-sq.- metre (80,000-sq.-ft.) venue is available for private events and offers guided tours of current exhibits. PHOTO: DUO-TANG STUDIO PHOTO: MUSÉE IMAGINARIUM PHOTO: ARSENAL MONTRÉAL PHOTO: UNITED IRISH SOCIETIES OF MONTRÉAL Bazart restaurant at New City Gas The Montréal Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, Canada’s longest running, has celebrated Irish heritage since 1824. Organized by the United Irish Societies of Montréal, the parade will mark its 200th edition on March 16, 2025, with vibrant floats, bands and performers. DID YOU KNOW… • Montréal has two official languages: French and English Montréal | meetings.mtl.org | 21
