Sugar Bear Festival
About This Event
Sugar Bear is Montreal's spring bear weekend, run by Bear-It, the local company behind the yearly Mr. Bear Montréal contest. It pairs the Village bar scene with sugar-shack season, so expect flannel, maple syrup and a lot of beards.
The program is spread over the Village's own bars rather than one site. In 2025 (April 10 to 13) it opened with a meet-and-greet at the Black Eagle, held the Mr. Bear Montréal contest at Stock Bar on the Friday and sent people on to the Stud for the after-party. Saturday split the crowd between a social at the Aigle Noir, a bathhouse party at G.I. Joe and Pitbull's Bear Playground at Lion d'Or. Sunday closed with a sugar-shack brunch and a drag show at Cocktail.
Some events are free, others are ticketed one by one. In 2025 the contest cost $25, Bear Playground $40 and the brunch $50. Stay in or near the Village so you can walk between venues.
Bear-It has announced the 2027 edition for April 7 to 11. We couldn't confirm the exact dates of the 2026 weekend.
Where to stay during Sugar Bear Festival
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Practical Tips
Book Early for Accommodation
As a popular event, hotels and accommodations in and around the Village tend to fill up quickly. It's advisable to book your stay well in advance, especially if traveling for the entire festival.
Check the Specific Event Schedule
Sugar Bear Festival encompasses various parties and events. Visit the official website to get the detailed schedule, including specific venues and timings for each party, to plan your weekend accordingly.
Embrace the Bear Culture
The festival is a celebration of bear culture. Come prepared for a friendly, inclusive, and often playful atmosphere. It's a great opportunity to connect with the community.
Videos
I Went To A Beer Festival!
