Igloofest: Montreal’s Winter Dance Party

Yup, it was minus 30 last week and what better way to embrace the cold than to attend Montreal‘s epic outdoor music festival? I know you probably think I’m crazy, but Igloofest is one of the best festival experiences I’ve ever had! And as long as you bundle up (I’m talking layers upon layers), you will be so happy you braved it out. From ice castles and mulled wine to outdoor campfires and mini curling tables, the organizers have managed to create a winter wonderland that makes for an unforgettable experience. Here are the highlights:

1. The Music – The most important part. Igloofest brings over 70 local, national and international DJs together under one “roof” (i.e. the sky). This year they have their most ambitious lineup yet: Skream, Art Department, Sharam, Mistress Barbara, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs and Pete Tong to name a few. That’s 210 hours of electronic music by some of the world’s most talented DJs.

2. The Fashion – To give you a visual: think retro snowsuits, unique costumes, wigs and all the rave gear from the 90s. Anything and everything goes at Igloofest. They even host a “one-piece” contest every year.

3. Ice Sculptures, Bars and Castles – Igloofest is a 50 000 sq. ft. winter playground. A magical place where you can slide down an ice castle after warming up with a shot of Jägermeister at an ice bar. Epic.

4. The Mulled Wine – I’ve never had mulled wine before and this was definitely the place to try it. Nothing like a warm cup of spiced wine when you’re dancing outside in the cold! It put a big smile on my face…

5. The Drum Game – Sapporo set up a brilliant guitar hero-esque game that will get you and your friends banging on barrel drums like there’s no tomorrow. Nobody left this game without a perma-smile.

6. The Campfires – With marshmallows on sticks, everyone gathers around the fires to warm up and indulge in a little treat.

7. The People – The energy at Igloofest is unreal. And even though it’s ridiculously cold out, everyone is super friendly and there to have a good time. You feel like you’re truly taking part in something special. Perhaps that’s why so many people from around the globe gather at Igloofest to dance in their winter gear each year.

Here are a few tips before you head over:

• Dress warm! One or two layers of pants (topped with snow pants if you own them), three or four layers of socks, proper winter boots, a warm winter jacket (I was wearing my Canada Goose Montebello Parka), hats/earmuffs and gloves are a MUST. Layer, layer layer!
• Buy your tickets beforehand if you can (only $17 online). If you’re feeling spontaneous, you can also grab them at the door ($20), based on availability.
• There are heated areas to thaw in: make use of them so you don’t get hypothermia!
• All that dancing, drinking and cold weather will make you hungry! Not to worry: they sell food onsite (I spotted poutine and pizza).
• If you don’t want to wait in long line-ups, head to Igloofest slightly after they’ve opened the gates!

I hope you get a chance to experience this incredible festival. It’s their 8th edition and it runs until Feb 8th. I’ll leave you with a little teaser…