‘I came because the métro is open': Crescent St. booms with fans for Grand Prix Festival

Montreal Gazette

15-06-2025

News
Rob Jenkinson arrived in Montreal before 9 a.m. Friday, but the early wake up didn't stop him from attending the Grand Prix Festival on Crescent Street.
It's the Buffalo, N.Y., native's third time at the event. He plans to take it all in, from practice to the big race on Sunday.
But it isn't just the sport that he loves, it's also the city. In the past, he and his family visited Atwater Market and walked along the Lachine Canal, and took in the sights in Old Montreal.
'Montreal is such a city cool city to begin with and then how much more international it is, it's really fun,' he said Friday. 'And our kids enjoy it, too.'
Jenkinson said for how close Montreal is to his own city, what he appreciates is that 'it's so different.'
He did notice a few more questions when entering the Canadian border this time, he said. When asked about possible tensions from locals over the tariff war, he cheekily pointed out that he's not the president.
'I haven't found anything too different from in the past. I found they always welcomed Americans,' he said.
Crescent was already bustling by noon Friday, where energy drinks, alcohol samples and free ice cream were being handed out. Fans decked out in jerseys and F1 merch took photos next to splashy cars on display, while others took part in games.
'We're very excited,' said Steve Gloyd, who came in with his friends from Maryland and is staying in Griffintown.
'We wanted to see all the activities, the cars and hear the live music, and experience all the shops' downtown, he said.
Locals also checked out the scene. Shaun Hughson, who lives on the south shore, enjoyed seeing tourists and getting free ice cream.
'I came today because the métro is open,' Hughson said, referring to the STM strike that impacted service earlier in the week.
The city's public transit system will be operating at full capacity throughout the weekend while maintenance workers are on a nine-day strike. Bus and metro service will be maintained throughout F1 as masses flock to Jean-Drapeau Park.
'A happy time'
The Grand Prix is a boon for businesses, generating an estimated $100 million in revenues.
Ziggy Eichenbaum, owner of Ziggy's Pub, said this weekend brings in about a month's worth of business. His staff is doubled for the period.
Not only is it good for his pub, but he said it's great for Montreal. He also gets to meet people from all over the world, including Spain and Japan.
'It's a happy time,' Eichenbaum said.
Outside, a few regulars who have been coming to the pub for Grand Prix for more 20 years were taking in the sunny day and each other's company.
Paul Brisebois was among those having a beer, saying he liked the atmosphere and people the most.
'Today's a good day because I get to meet the boys and the friends,' he said.
More security
Montreal police and security guards will also be present throughout the weekend, including at the festival where the department had a tent set up.
Police said Friday that officers will be at F1 race site 'to ensure everyone's safety' though it didn't specify the number of officers on the ground, citing security reasons.
'We adapt our operations according to each situation and people's behaviour. Our officers are always ready to intervene should there be any excesses or violations of laws and regulations,' a police statement said.
Police also met with hotel mangers and employees from transportation companies in hopes of 'preventing and raising awareness about sexual exploitation.' Brochures were also distributed at different venues, according to the SPVM.
'Community outreach officers also manned information booths in certain central neighbourhoods before the festivities began.'
This story was originally published June 13, 2025 at 4:37 PM.