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Le Grand Apéro SAQ
SATURDAY, AUGUST 30 FROM 2 TO 10 P.M. | SUNDAY, AUGUST 31 FROM 2 TO 8 P.M.
Over 250 products to taste and tons of activities to end the summer in style.
Learn about all the big names on the local and international wine scene and sample their products.
Mix colours and flavours to the
rhythm of the waves and the music
in the cocktail area.
Meet us on the terrasse by the water to dance, eat, drink, and enjoy all kinds of unique festivities in the city.
Ticket sale is via a partner website.
You will be redirected to an external ticket office.
Treat yourself to a masterclass in the magnificent Port of Montreal Tower.
Go from amateur to connoisseur by taking a masterclass with passionate and exciting producers. Limited spots.
Saturday, August 30 | $49 per class*
2:30 to 3:30 p.m.: Wines of South Africa and New Zealand
4 to 5 p.m.: Glenfiddich
5:30 to 6:30 p.m.: Wines of Rioja DOC
7 to 8 p.m.: Wines of France
Sunday, August 31 | $49 per class*
2:30 to 3:30 p.m.: Wines of Italy
4 to 5 p.m.: Soju Good Day
5:30 to 6:30 p.m. : Wines of D.O. Rueda
*A general entry ticket is required to purchase a masterclass. New classes may be added to the schedule.
Ticket sale is via a partner website. You will be redirected to an external ticket office.
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to your questions!
General
- Where is the festival taking place?
LE GRAND APÉRO SAQ will be held at the Grand Quai of the Port of Montreal in Old Montreal.
We recommend using alternative transportation (public transit, taxi, etc.). Visit the STM website for more info on public transit access. The site is accessible via Square-Victoria or Place-d’Armes metro stations and bus lines 715, 35, 61, and 75.
- When is LE GRAND APÉRO SAQ?
The festival will take place on August 30 and 31, 2025!
- What time does the site open?
The festival site will be open from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on August 30 and from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on August 31, 2025.
- Is the festival open to people under 18?
To comply with Quebec alcohol laws, the event is for guests 18 and older. ID may be required for those appearing 25 or younger.
- What happens if it rains?
The festival takes place rain or shine!
We recommend checking the weather forecast and dressing appropriately. Severe weather may temporarily suspend programming on the Inspire Stage.
Follow our social media for updates.
- Can media and photographers request accreditation?
For any accreditation-related requests, please contact us at: evenementsaqinspire@saq.qc.ca
Tickets
- How do I buy tickets?
Tickets are available now on SAQ.COM!
Select your ticket and double-check your cart—sales are final (no exchanges or refunds).
- What’s included with a day ticket?
- 1 wristband granting one-day access
- 10 tasting coupons ($10 value)
- 1 food coupon
- 1 festival cup
- What’s included with a weekend pass?
- 1 wristband granting two-day access
- 20 tasting coupons ($20 value)
- 2 food coupons
- 1 festival cup
- Can I buy a ticket from a reseller and verify its validity?
Only tickets purchased through our official platform (Weezevent, SAQ’s partner) are guaranteed valid. We do not support or verify tickets bought from third parties.
The validity of unofficial tickets can only be confirmed when scanned at the entrance each day. Adding a ticket to your mobile wallet doesn’t guarantee it’s valid.
- When and how do I get my wristband?
Present your ticket at the entrance to receive your wristband.
NOTE: You may add the event to your calendar and digital wallet (Apple Wallet or GPay) after receiving your ticket. Please do so in advance to speed up entry and avoid technical issues.
- Can I attend only one day of the festival?
Yes! Day tickets for Saturday, August 30, and Sunday, August 31, are available.
- Do I need a day/weekend ticket to attend a Masterclass?
Yes. A valid day or weekend ticket is required. The $49 Masterclass ticket is in addition to your general admission ticket.
- Inspire Points
Get 2x the Inspire points when buying tickets for SAQ Inspire Events.
Use the same email linked to your Inspire account to earn points.
Points are calculated before tax and will appear in your account within two weeks following the event.
- Tasting coupons
Tasting coupons are loaded onto your wristband and are worth $1 each.
- Can I buy more coupons?
Yes. You can top up your wristband in two ways:
- On-site at designated coupon recharge counters
- By scanning the QR codes displayed around the festival site
- Can I get a refund for unused coupons?
No, but you can use leftover coupons at several merchandise booths on-site.
Accessibility
- Is the site accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Yes. The Grand Quai is fully accessible and meets most accessibility criteria from Kéroul. Activities and services are accessible to everyone.
- What are the rules regarding companions and animals?
Only certified service animals with valid documentation are allowed.
- Is there accessible parking?
Yes, though limited and paid. Designated spaces are available at the Grand Quai.
- Are there accessible washrooms?
Yes, accessible restrooms are available and clearly marked.
Festival services
- Where can I refill my water bottle?
Water stations will be located throughout the site to refill reusable bottles.
- Is LE GRAND APÉRO SAQ an eco-friendly event?
Yes. Measures include limited printing, reduced use of single-use items by caterers, local suppliers, and encouraging public transit.
- Food Banks of Quebec
$5 per ticket or will be donated to Quebec’s food banks.
- Food Recovery
The SAQ has partnered with La Tablée des Chefs for over 20 years. Click here for more info.
Transportation
- How do I get there?
The festival is located at the Grand Quai of the Port of Montreal in Old Montreal.
We recommend public or shared transportation. See STM for transit options (metro Square-Victoria or Place-d’Armes; buses 715, 35, 61, 75).
Buy your round-trip fare in advance to avoid lineups.
- Can I come by car?
Public transit or carpooling is preferred. The Grand Quai parking lot holds up to 150 cars. There are accessible spots, bike racks, and EV charging stations.
No trailers or RVs allowed. Paid parking is also available nearby, including near the Science Centre at King-Edward Pier.
Rules & safety
- Can I leave and re-enter the site?
No re-entry is allowed. Once you leave, you cannot return. You may exit permanently at any time.
- What items are allowed on-site?
Allowed bags:
- Backpacks or bags up to 16" x 12" x 6", preferably transparent (plastic, vinyl, or PVC)
- Fanny packs, pouches, belt bags (with or without strap)
- Small purses or zippered clutches (ideally clear), up to 6" x 9"
Exceptions may be made for medical needs, subject to inspection.
All bags will be inspected at entry.Other allowed items:
- Cameras without detachable lenses
- Empty reusable or plastic water bottles
- Non-aerosol sunscreen (max 100 ml / 3.4 oz)
- What items are prohibited on-site?
- Bags:
- Camping backpacks
- Bags larger than 16" x 12" x 6"
- Non-compliant bags
- Hydration vests or packs
- Coolers (unless medically necessary)
- Products/containers:
- Aerosols (including sunscreen or cosmetics)
- Glass containers
- Outside food or drink (including alcohol)
- Equipment/devices:
- Professional cameras with detachable lenses
- Pro audio/video gear
- Tripods, monopods, selfie sticks
- Drones
- Speakers, musical instruments
- Binoculars
- Miscellaneous:
- Hammocks
- Umbrellas, tents, awnings, shelters
- Helmets
- Skateboards, scooters, bikes, personal motorized vehicles
- Wagons, carts, frisbees
- Weapons, explosives, fireworks
- Large chains, spiked jewelry
- Cannabis products (even legal)
- Illegal substances
- Unauthorized promotional materials (flyers, stickers, giveaways)
- Unauthorized vendors or soliciting
- Are bags allowed on-site?
Yes, but only certain formats are accepted. We highly recommend transparent, reusable bags (plastic, vinyl, or PVC) under 16" x 12" x 6".
All bags will be inspected.
Permitted bags include:
- Backpacks up to 16" x 12" x 6" (ideally clear)
- Fanny packs, pouches (with or without straps)
- Small purses or zippered clutches (ideally clear), up to 6" x 9" or 1-gallon size
Medical exemptions may be granted after inspection.
All bags are subject to search. - Will there be security checks?
Yes. Searches are a condition of entry and may occur at any time on-site.
We may confiscate any item reasonably considered dangerous, offensive, or disruptive.
Anyone suspected of illegal activity or carrying prohibited items may be handed over to police, denied entry, or ejected without refund.
- Will medical staff be present?
Yes. Medical staff will be on-site.
Please bring your medications and avoid health risks. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and drink responsibly.
- Cannabis Policy
No cannabis products from SQDC or other legal sources are allowed.
No cannabis use or sales are permitted on-site.