Montreal is not only home to many game studios, it also hosts a plethora of video game events. Here’s your handy lists to some of the biggest gaming conventions and esport events this city has to offer.
Author note: This list is meant as a general introduction to the events happening in Montreal. Dates and locations are subject to change from year to year so make sure to check official websites to get the most up to date information. Links are provided below.
Conventions
We love a good convention where we can try new games, buy some sweet merch and be blown away by the amazing cosplay.
Montreal Comiccon
One of the biggest geek events in the city, if not the biggest. Montreal Comiccon is a three-day celebration of all geek fandoms including video games. Try new games at many of the show’s floor booths, meet celebrities and content creators, purchase a one of kind souvenir in the artist alley, attend one of the many panels and enjoy amazing cosplays.
First weekend of July
Palais des Congrès
montrealcomiccon.com
Otakuthon
If you also love anime, this is the convention for you. Don’t be fooled by the name, Otakuthon has a great video game room where you can play games and take part in tournaments.
early or mid August
Palais des Congrès
otakuthon.com
MEGA Expo
The Montreal Gaming Arcade Expo, MEGA for short, is a celebration of the indie scene and the new home of the Montreal Independent Game Awards. Even if it’s one of the city’s smaller and more affordable events, it is THE place to be if you want to play a great variety of games.
early or mid November
Grand Quay in the Old Port
mega-mtl.com
Geek-IT!
A newcomer to the scene, Geek-IT! takes place outside in Montreal’s famous Old Port. Geek-IT! promises cosplay events, arcades and gaming competitions.
early April
Grand Quay in the Old Port
geekitcon.com
Esport Competitions
Streams are great but nothing beats the electric ambiance of being in the crowd, cheering for your favourite players.
LAN ÉTS
One of the biggest LAN party on the East Coast, where more than 2000 gamers compete for over $40,000 in prize money. Take part in one of the many competitions or come as a spectator. LAN ÉTS also offers other activities like cosplay competitions and an exhibitor floor.
early February
Palais des Congrès
lanets.ca
Dreamhack Montreal
One of the biggest global esport festival has landed at the Big O. Dreamhack is home to many finals including the StarCraft II World Championship Circuit. Enjoy the competitions, take part in a BYOC tournament and check out the many booths in the exhibition zone.
early September
Olympic Stadium
dreamhack.com/montreal/
Six Invitational
A celebration of Rainbow Six Siege in its hometown of Montreal. Come see some of the best Rainbow Six Siege teams compete for a major prize pool and get a glimpse of what’s to come in the game in the new season.
early February
Place Bell
rainbow6.ubisoft.com
Industry Events
Since Montreal is home to a thriving video game scene, it also hosts key industry events.
MIGS
The Montreal International Gaming Summits (MIGS) is the city’s biggest industry event. It offers panels, networking events, a job fair and an exhibitor zone.
early or mid November
Grand Quay in the Old Port
migs18.com
Effects MTL
Effects is one of the largest Animation and VFX conferences on the North American East Coast. Similar to MIGS, Effects caters to animation and special effects professionals from the media and gaming industries.
early June
Marché Bonsecours
effects-events.com
The Bonus Round: Workshops and Meet-Ups
Because it’s not all about the big events, check out these groups organizing gaming and industry workshops or events in Montreal.
Pixelles
A non-profit looking to empower women to join and spark change in the gaming industry. Pixelles organizes various gaming workshops, panels and mentorship programs.
pixelles.ca
Gang de Devs
Gang de Devs organizes monthly meet-ups to promote mentorship and sharing of knowledge for students and professionals of the video game industry.
facebook.com/GangDeDevs/