FAQS
Regarding the Basilica
In what year was the Basilica built?
The Notre-Dame Basilica was built between 1824 and 1829. Its towers were completed later in 1841 (west tower, named Perseverance) and 1843 (east tower, named Temperance).
Can I get married at the Basilica?
Yes, it’s possible to get married in the nave of the Basilica itself or in the Notre-Dame du Sacré-Cœur Chapel. For more information, visit the Marriage page.
Who owns the Basilica?
The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal belongs to La Fabrique de la paroisse Notre-Dame de Montréal, a non-profit organization that also manages the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery.
Are there any concerts at the Basilica?
Yes, please consult the Music page for more information.
Why do we have to pay to enter the Basilica?
The Notre-Dame Basilica is managed by La Fabrique de la paroisse Notre-Dame de Montréal, a non-profit organization that has full responsibility for its maintenance and restoration. The entrance fee is a key part of what allows the event organizers to do the required maintenance and restoration work to ensure that Notre-Dame will be around to visit and admire for future generations . We are grateful for any contribution you can make by donation. Thank you!
What is the difference between a Cathedral and a Basilica?
A cathedral is the Church of a bishop or archbishop, who is responsible for the administration of a diocese. A basilica is a title given to a Church in recognition of its religious, historical, architectural and artistic value. Pope John Paul II raised the Church to the rank of basilica in 1982. A cathedral can also be designated a basilica, as is the case for the Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde in Montréal. There are two other basilicas in Montréal: Saint Joseph's Oratory and Saint Patrick's Basilica.
Is this where Céline Dion got married?
Yes, Céline Dion was wed in the Notre-Dame Basilica on December 17, 1994, during a ceremony with about 500 guests. Her son, René-Charles, was baptized in the Notre-Dame du Sacré-Coeur Chapel on July 25, 2001, with about 250 guests. The funeral for her husband, René Angélil, was also held at the Basilica on January 22, 2016, with approximately 1,500 people in attendance. His grave can be found at the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery, which is part of the same organization as the Basilica.
When can I hear the Casavant Organ?
Sightseeing visits include an organ performance, by M. Pierre Grandmaison, on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 1 p.m. Mass on Saturday and Sunday is also accompanied by organ music. See the Music page for more information.
Is the Basilica accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The Notre-Dame Basilica is rated as partially accessible by Kéroul. There is a mobility ramp granting easy access to our main entrance. For more information, please read our page on the Kéroul website.
Is Notre-Dame de Montréal a replica of Notre-Dame de Paris?
No. Critics associated the style of Notre-Dame de Montréal with that of Notre-Dame de Paris when it was built. That was a mistake. Notre-Dame de Montréal is in the English Gothic Revival style: its towers are very slender in relation to its central core, its volume emphasizes verticality, and its façade has little ornamentation.
During a trip to France, pastor Rousselot was impressed by the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris because of its style and symbolism. He suggested that architect Victor Bourgeau, who designed the interior of Notre-Dame de Montréal, take inspiration from it. The Basilica’s interior decoration is reminiscent of the French neo-Gothic style: the blue vault decorated with golden stars and the decorative motifs on the columns are reminiscent of the interior of the lower chapel of the Sainte-Chapelle.
Regarding The AURA Experience
What does the COMBO offer include, and what are its benefits?
The combined offer at the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal allows you to fully explore this heritage gem. Take part in a sightseeing visit to admire its numerous artistic treasures such as magnificent stained glass windows and the Casavant Organ. Continue the pleasure with the immersive AURA sound and light experience which, thanks to cutting-edge technology, allows the basilica to put on its costume of light to make you experience a moment of great intensity. Enjoy a 12% discount on your tickets with the combo offer
Where is the experience taking place?
110 Notre Dame Street West Montreal, Quebec) H2Y 1T1 Canada
What is the order for the visit and the experience?
The Sightseeing Visit of the Basilica and The AURA Experience will be done in the order of your choice but must be done on the same day. Please check the Sightseeing Visit opening hours.
How long is the whole experience (Sightseeing Visit and The AURA Experience)?
The AURA Experience is approximately 45 minutes long, divided into two parts: an open exploration of illuminated stations and an immersive multimedia experience. Doors open 30 minutes before the scheduled time of the event.
The sightseeing visit takes approximately 1 hour.
Regarding the venue
Where is the experience located?
110, Notre-Dame Street West
Montréal (Québec)
H2Y 1T1 Canada
Will restrooms be available on site?
Yes restrooms are available on site.
Is the venue accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The Notre-Dame Basilica is rated as partially accessible by Kéroul. There is a mobility ramp granting easy access to our main entrance. For more information, please read our page on the Kéroul website.
Is there parking available?
There is meter parking along the streets of Old Montreal as well as and paying parking lots.
Regarding access to the event
Can children take part in the experience?
Yes, The AURA Experience is suitable for all audiences, including children. It should be noted, however, that some of the visual and sound effects can be overwhelming for younger children. We recommend that you protect toddlers’ ears with earphones or noise-reducing headphones. Laser visual effects are not recommended for babies.
Can I attend The Aura Experience if I have epilepsy?
We prefer to warn photosensitive people that flashes of light are used for a few seconds.
Do I need to arrive at the start of my scheduled session?
We recommend arriving no more than 15 minutes in advance. Arriving earlier does not offer any advantage, and you may have to wait outside, rain or shine.
What happens if I arrive late?
Visitors who arrive after the start of the experience will be seated at the back of the Basilica.
What are the prohibited items at the experience?
Flash photography, alcohol, or anything which may disturb the other visitors.
Can I bring animals?
Animals are not allowed, except for service animals. Please present valid proof of certification upon entry.
Tickets
Where can I find my ticket?
You can find your ticket in the "Tickets" section of the Fever app (you can download it from the App Store d'Apple or Google Play). Remember to log in with the same email address you used to purchase the tickets.
The QR code that you will have to present on the day of the concert will also be in the confirmation email.
What are the different types of tickets?
Regular and VIP.
Can I purchase tickets on site?
Tickets are not available for purchase on site. All tickets must be purchased on the app or website www.feverup.com prior to arriving at the event.
Where can I get tickets?
- On the Fever App, available on Google Play and Apple Store
- On the Fever website
Can I book a ticket for my carer?
If you need assistance throughout the experience, your carer can access for free.
Are refunds allowed?
Tickets are generally non-refundable. Ticket non-refund terms and conditions are agreed to before purchase. However, under special circumstances, you can contact us and our user support team will process your request. Make sure to include your ticket order number.
Can I reschedule my tickets to another date/time, or upgrade/downgrade my ticket?
We may be able to help reschedule or exchange your ticket for another date, time or ticket type that has not already sold out up to 48 hours prior to the concert start time indicated on your originally purchased ticket. Please contact us for more information. Make sure to include your ticket order number.
Can I transfer my tickets to another person?
Yes, you can transfer your tickets to anyone for free. It is as easy as clicking "Transfer Tickets" on your ticket on the Fever App. Please contact us for additional help. Make sure to include your ticket order number.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No, your contactless tickets will be validated directly in the Fever App.
What are the official sellers for this experience?
Official tickets for Piano Renaissance can only be purchased on Fever. Tickets are not available on any other website or ticketing platform.
I can't find my ticket. What can I do?
You can find your ticket with the QR code in the Fever app, within the Tickets section. If you don't have it installed, you can download it from the Apple Store or Google Play. Remember to log in using the same account that you used when buying the tickets. If you still cannot find your ticket, please contact us.