Join the Montreal Tikkun Circle for Discovering Canada’s First Jews, a special day exploring the Jewish history of Montreal’s Old Port and sharing lunch together afterward.

You can RSVP for the walking tour, lunch, or both.

Canada’s First Jews Old Port Walking Tour

Step back in time to the 18th century and discover the formation of Canada’s earliest Jewish community.

From the disputed “first Jew in Canada” through epidemics, rebellions, and revolutions, discover the fur traders, politicians, and merchants who helped form Canada’s first Jewish community.

Explore how early Sephardic arrivals navigated the changing worlds around them, established Canada’s first congregation, and helped build a foundation for future Jewish immigrants to Montreal.

Along the way, we’ll explore beautiful sites throughout Old Montreal, from Place d’Armes to Marché Bonsecours, and discover their unexpected connections to Jewish history.

You’ll hear hidden stories on rarely visited side streets and alleyways while learning about the complex role Jews played in Canada’s early history. The tour will conclude along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, which has inspired Jewish painters and poets for generations.

Our friendly and knowledgeable guide is a university level researcher who will answer questions and lead discussions throughout the experience.

Tour Details

Date: Sunday, August 30
Start: 10:00 AM
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Cost: $30

*** The tour requires approximately 2 hours of walking, so participants should be comfortable walking for that length of time.

The exact meeting location will be shared with registered participants 2 days before the event.

Lunch Together

Following the walking tour, we’ll gather for lunch at 12:30 PM.

Lunch is pay-your-own, but due to limited seating, we need you to RSVP. Everyone registered will simply order and pay for their own food. 

Please Note: You can join us for lunch even if you are not participating in the walking tour. You just need to let us know that you’re coming as seating is limited.

Choose What Works for You

When registering, you can choose:

Tour only: $30

Lunch only: Free to RSVP. Order your own food.

Tour + Lunch: $30 for the tour, plus pay for your own lunch.

Who Is This For?

This gathering is open to anyone interested in:

• Jewish history and Montreal history
• Exploring Old Montreal
• Jewish community and learning
• Sephardic Jewish history
• Meaningful conversation and connection
• Discovering the Jewish stories hidden within the city
• Delicious Vegan food shared with lovely, compassionate people.

About the Montreal Tikkun Circle

The JVL Montreal Tikkun Circle brings people together to explore Jewish wisdom, history, veganism, compassionate living, and community through meaningful experiences and gatherings.

Whether you join us for the full day or just one part of the event, we hope you’ll come explore, learn, and connect with us.

RSVP

Please register for the tour, lunch, or both.

The exact locations will be shared with registered participants 2 days before the event.