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From the Théâtre Rialto to the Abbaye d’Oka: Candlelight concerts take place in Montreal’s most beautiful historic venues by candlelight
Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal and other venues enchant audiences with their exceptional acoustics and architecture, providing an unforgettable setting for Candlelight concerts. Discover Montreal’s many venues.
By diversifying its programming, Candlelight is reinventing the way we enjoy tribute concerts while showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage. From Vivaldi’s masterpieces to the most famous film scores, every repertoire comes to life by candlelight: in Montreal, any reason is a good one to experience a moment that feels like time stands still.
The Rialto Theatre is a former movie palace located on Park Avenue. It’s no surprise, then, that it has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada. From its Beaux-Arts façade inspired by the Paris Opera House to its Neo-Baroque interior, this former movie theater—now a performing arts center—offers an elegant and grandsetting for galas, trade shows, proms, and much more.
Saint-Jean Baptiste Church is a Roman Catholic church built in 1872. This breathtaking architectural masterpiece, inspired by the Baroque Revival style, was destroyed by fire in 1898 and 1911 but was rebuilt in 1912. In addition to hosting a variety of concerts and guided tours, this Neo-Baroque church is ready to welcome Candlelight’s classical performances of iconic musical works.
After 24 years of closure, the legendary 9e, on the ninth floor of the Eaton Centre, is reopening its doors to the public. Come (re)discover its timeless Art Deco decor and architecture, admire its straight, geometric lines, and above all, experience this unique restaurant under the soft orange glow of thousands of Candlelight candles.
Boldly combining archaeological remains preserved underground with remarkable contemporary architecture, Pointe-à-Callière offers a prestigious setting steeped in history. When its modern spaces are illuminated by candlelight, the interplay of memory, acoustics, and musical performances creates an atmosphere of great elegance.
Located in Montreal’s Verdun neighborhood, the church is built in the Beaux-Arts style and rests on cut-stone foundations. Designed by Joseph Venne, it features tall, narrow windows, two bell towers, and a Neo-Baroque interior . This magnificent building can accommodate 1,200 people and offers the ideal setting to celebrate some of the most influential compositions and hits of all time.
The Cartier Theater is housed in the former Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Church, which has been meticulously restored and transformed into a spectacular event venue. Located just a stone’s throw from the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, this historic site perfectly blends the prestige of its sacred origins with modern elegance. When the nave and ballroom are illuminated by the glow of thousands of Candlelight candles, the theater’s magnificent acoustics and intimate atmosphere provide a stunning setting for a musical experience of rare intensity.
The Théâtre Cartier is located at 2330 Sainte-Catherine Street East, Montreal, QC H2K 2J4.
Candlelight Reviews in Montreal
Candlelight’s 5-star reviews highlight the beauty and incredible acoustics of Montreal’s most stunning venues by candlelight. Here are a few of their comments:
“Gorgeous location!” – Candlelight: Tribute to Phil Collins, Le 9e
“Magnificent!! We had a wonderful time. The musicians’ performance was incredible, and the setting was absolutely beautiful.” – Candlelight: Tribute to Adele, Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs Church
“The serenity of a church, a magnificent string quartet, and the glow of the candles make this a magical moment.” — Candlelight: Tribute to Leonard Cohen, Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs Church
The Maison symphonique de Montréal: A modern, centrally located venue renowned for its remarkable acoustics. It hosts the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, the Orchestre Métropolitain, Les Violons du Roy, and other renowned ensembles.
La Chapelle musicale du Bon-Pasteur: An intimate venue dedicated to chamber music and a launching pad for young classical artists, with a program accessible to all.
Salle Pierre-Mercure: Often used by the Montreal Classical Orchestra and other ensembles, this venue offers a variety of concerts in an environment well-suited to classical music.
McGill University: Hosting numerous chamber music concerts and recitals by students or guest musicians, it is well known for its classical programming and orchestral concerts.
The Pierre-Péladeau Center: A venue used by local and international orchestras, often for major works from the classical repertoire.
With thousands of flickering candles illuminating each unique venue,Montreal’s Candlelight Concertswill inspire audiences with a mix of timeless pieces and modern hits during 60 to 65 mesmerizing minutes.The candlelight concerts have received countless 5-star reviews, and guests have described them as a “creative, enchanting, and fresh concert experience” and noted that “the performers were fantastic!”
Note: For the safety of our audience, all candles will be lit using flameless candles.
