Every year, Complex Desjardins sets up its Christmas village, which is a super destination for families with children from one to five years old. In 2011, the Santa Claus Parade ends very close to Complex Desjardins at St. Urbain and Ste. Catherine St., so it makes for a good pitstop after the parade.
Going beyond the typical line-up-for-Santa-at-the-mall scenario, Complex Desjardins offers enough activities – targeted at different ages – that you can spend an hour or two there. Plus, it’s free.
For the littlest ones, there is a toddler play area, supervised by costumed elves. Older kids aren’t allowed in, so they get to romp around safely in a small area with mats to climb on and jump off, and a tunnel to crawl through.
For children around age three (they have to be over a certain height), there’s a small maze that ends with a double slide.
For kids around age four and up, there’s a giant, inflated slide. Yeee-haw!
Expect a lineup for the face-painting and, of course, for Santa, who gives out a small gift to each visitor. On the weekends, you need to make an “appointment” with his secretary when you get there.
The other highlight of the Christmas village are children’s shows, which are held on weekdays and weekends. There are shows starring Shilvi on Saturday afternoons at 1 p.m. from Nov. 19 to Dec. 24. There is also a show called Les plus beaux des Cadeaux, plus several performances of holiday songs. See full schedule.
The village area is on the same level as the food court, so it’s convenient to get a snack or lunch before or after the Christmas village visit. Also, Complex Desjardins has a nice fountain that shoots water straight up to the ceiling of the shopping centre. Kids will be impressed!
Complex Desjardins Christmas Village
Dates: Nov. 21 to Dec. 24
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends, hours vary during the week. Check the schedule.
Address: 150 Ste. Catherine St. W. or 175 René Lévèsque St. W.
Parking: Metered parking on surrounding streets, underground lot $10 per day.
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