Every Sunday from late May through September, a large clearing at the base of Mount Royal near the George-Étienne Cartier Monument transforms into Montreal's most democratic social event. Hundreds of drummers — djembes, bongos, frame drums, anything percussive — set up in a loose circle and play from mid-morning into the afternoon. Around them, thousands of Montrealers lay out blankets, spin hula hoops, juggle, practice contact improv, sell handmade jewellery, and simply sit in the sun.
The Tam-Tams are entirely spontaneous — no permits, no organization, no stage. They have been happening this way since the 1970s and show no signs of stopping. Alongside them is an informal medieval combat re-enactment group (the same crowd, different hobby) that fights with foam weapons in the park. The combination is very Montreal: slightly anarchic, good-natured, and utterly distinctive.