Montréal International Jazz Festival

One of the highlights of the Montréal calendar is the annual International Jazz Festival, which this year runs from June 25 to July 4. Past headliners have included Tony Bennett and Dave Brubeck; among those on the schedule this year are Diana Krall, Pink Martini, Sade and Madeleine Peyroux. While the admission fees for the big names can be hefty, dozens of free outdoor concerts take place on a fair-like collection of stages just an easy walk from Vieux-Montréal. There are food stands and drink venues aplenty, and on a warm summer day, we were reintroduced to the refreshing combination of white Port and tonic. For a complete schedule and to buy tickets, consult the official website.