When Yan Laporte isn’t working at Duel, chances are you’ll find this energetic waiter at any number of hotspots in the Gay Village, a slice of town that is synonymous with serious fun. Yan likes to meet people, have a good time and get noticed. That’s why, when planning his social calendar, weekends extend from Wednesday to Sunday!
His epic journey begins at Sky, a Village institution of sorts spread out over several floors with ample room to accommodate an inconceivable number of people. Pool tables, theme rooms, an immense rooftop terrace – everything here inspires the desire to party, be you straight or gay.
Yan is also a big fan of Parking, considered to be the avant-garde of quality dance music in the Village. Multiple rooms, a variety of vibes and always a blast, you’ll be hard-pressed to leave before 3 a.m. Attendance is mandatory.
Mado is nothing short of an icon in Montréal’s gay and lesbian community. Flanked by her acolytes, this queen of drag queens welcomes one and all to her musical cabaret, Chez Mado, a splashy space made in her own image: big on colour, super friendly and undeniably fabulous!
Yan also indulges in a number of outdoor events in the Village that pack the streets every summer. At the top of his list is the Divers/Cité Festival, an eclectic week-long event that combines art, dance, music and events for everyone. Most are free, outside and accessible to all! Let the street be your dance floor.
For Yan, from spring to early autumn, Piknic Électronik is the Sunday mass of choice, where congregants dance underneath Alexander Calder’s impressive Man sculpture. This is the hallowed spot where thousands of visitors of all ages come to groove or just relax under the trees of Île Sainte-Hélène, a mere 15-minute drive from downtown Montréal! Sermons are delivered by local and international DJs, serving up plenty of bass, beats and good vibrations.
Follow Erin Mahoney to her favourite Montréal nightclubs
Pamper your palate at upscale restaurants alongside Éric Longval
Explore some cutting-edge festivals with Noelle Sorbana
Hang out on Montréal’s trendiest rooftop terraces with Martine Desjardins
Look tempting? Then check out these great hotels and Sweet Deal offers and come on over!
