On June 24th is F te National , formerly known as St Jean Baptiste Day, this is Quebec's national holiday and includes a big parade. At the end of June and the beginning of July is the world renowned Montr al Jazz Festival . Many of the concerts are free and are held at various venues throughout the city. This is a big attraction so it is advisable to book accommodations early. This is a bilingual event with over 200 performers and over half a million attendees.
Some acts are free and for others an admission is charged.
At the beginning of August there is Montr al's International Gay and Lesbian Pride Festival , which is a fun time for everybody. In early fall there is the Montr al World Film Festival , held at several theatres around town. You cannot possibly leave Montr al without sampling the local specialty - the Montr al Smoked Meat Sandwich. Montr al's smoked meat is world famous, it is usually aged naturally without chemicals and additives. Thick slices of this meat between fresh rye bread with a generous dab of mustard and a pickle on the side and you have the perfect sandwich.