Tam Tams

Swing a Sword at Tam Tam

Tam tam is the French name for hand drums, drums that become the heartbeat of a spontaneous jam anyone join in – as a drummer, dancer, singer or spectator – each summer Sunday on Mont Royal. Vendors sell clothing, fresh fruit and curios, jugglers practice their skills, families picnic, and mock-medieval battles take place as well. A prime example of what Montreal does best: gather different communities for a fun, peaceful and relaxing day in the park.

Length of Trip : Sunday afternoon

Cost : Free!

Best time to go : Tam-Tams takes place every Sunday afternoon in summer. Sunny days always beat rainy ones.

Wheelchair friendly : Yes (although you might want to avoid the sword fighting fracas)

Family friendly : Yes

Where to eat : Schwartz’s and the Main is not too far away. Two Bucket List items in one afternoon! www.schwartzsdeli.com www.maindelisteakhouse.com

Official Site : www.tourisme-montreal.org

Where to Stay : We recommend staying with our trusted partner Intercontinental when visiting Montreal.

Getting There : Walk up Rue Rachel towards the towering angel statue, and follow the sound of the beat.

Note from Robin : Ask the sword swingers nicely if you can participate. They don’t publicly offer the service, so be nice. The best part of Tam Tams is just soaking up the atmosphere (and the sunshine). Take a book, relax, and enjoy just one more aspect that makes Montreal the city it is.

Great Canadian Trails