Summer in Montreal

Spent a few wonderful days in Montreal this summer. On the first evening, I was thrilled to stumble upon a short street between Guy and St. Mathieu where musicians were playing and passers-by dancing. Not sure whether the street was permanently closed off from traffic, but its vibrancy was so inspiring.

I think we should do the same in Toronto and close off Baldwin street, my favourite short street. And even better, we could send our musicians there and bring theirs here so there's a creative and enriching exchange between these two cities. And while we're at it, why not start a high-speed train service between Toronto and Montreal?

I also happened to be there during the St. Catherine Street sidewalk sale. There were plenty of clothes, but also musicians in every corner. Montreal seems ready to make music, and party at every opportunity. Bands of drummers performed along the street, getting everybody's feet moving to their powerful beats. Jazz, world music, rock, you name it, they were all there ...

The creativity continues on the walls of many buildings along St. Catherine. I love that city. A bientôt Montréal ...