Montreal’s borough of Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension is preparing for a weekend of sport, fun and community engagement as it hosts the Festival Sportif de Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension on Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15, 2026. The annual event, now a fixture in the borough’s winter calendar, brings together young athletes and families for two days of physical activity, friendly competition and neighbourhood celebration.
Organized for children aged 6 to 12, the festival offers a chance for participants to compete across a range of sports disciplines. From speed skating and soccer to handball, karate and swimming, more than a dozen activities will take place at multiple sites throughout the territory. Free snacks, promotional giveaways, interactive entertainment and even “bike smoothie” animation stations are among the extras designed to make the festival an experience for all ages. A mascot named Frimousse will also be on hand to energize the young crowd, and medals will be awarded to all participants.
Participation in the Festival Sportif requires registration in one of the sports activities offered in the January session by local partner organizations, in collaboration with Loisirs Montréal.
Since its inception in 2007, the event has drawn more than 1,000 motivated young athletes annually, giving children the opportunity not only to compete but to represent their communities within the framework of the preliminary competitions of the Jeux de Montréal.
Sport and recreation play a vital role in the borough’s community life. Local facilities, parks and programs create opportunities for residents of all ages to stay active year-round. From soccer and ball hockey to community swim programs and neighbourhood fitness activities, recreational engagement is woven into the social fabric of the area.
Events like the Festival Sportif highlight this emphasis on community activity, offering not just competitive sport but a chance for families in Parc-Extension and neighbouring Villeray and Saint-Michel to connect, celebrate youth involvement and promote healthy lifestyles.
As Montreal continues to promote inclusive and accessible sport programming across its boroughs, festivals like this one demonstrate how local initiatives support both physical health and community cohesion during the winter months.
