Mission - Atwater Market

« To give Montrealers access to local produce in their public markets that relate to their values »

Atwater Market, well-known for its tall clock tower along the Lachine Canal, is a popular and sought-after destination. How can you resist when there are more than nine butchers, three cheese shops, a fishmonger and a dozen specialty shops. In 2011, the market expanded outside on the north side with the addition of ten kiosks representing vendors of all kinds. Atwater market is well-recognized in the spring for the abundance of flowers and plants offered by its horticulturalists, its overflowing stalls filled with lots of fruits and vegetables, often picked the same day, from its local farmers, and in December, for the forest of Christmas trees, which arrive for the holiday season, this market is radiant and inspirational! Since the late 1990s, the Atwater Market has a winter mall which includes fruit and vegetable vendors, artisans and florists. Summer and winter alike, you’ll find what you’re looking for!

The Atwater Market was constructed in 1933 from the architectural plans of “Ludger et Lemieux.” Its construction cost more than a million dollars. Its long structure houses two shopping levels with 25 boutiques offering various products. On the third floor there is a large room for events that can accommodate up to 10,000 people. Also of note, the upper level of the market contains two apartments that were originally built for the janitor and the market administrator. At the end of the 70’s and the beginning of the 80’s, a major part of the third floor became a gymnasium and the two apartments served as administrative offices.

The Atwater Market, the most luxurious establishment of its kind in Montreal, replaced the old St-Antoine Market. The new name “Atwater”, was named after the municipal councillor who was renowned for his expertise in servicing the aqueducts of Montreal.

A Rich History

The Atwater Market has hosted many political, social and sporting events. Great politicians like Camillien Houde and Maurice Duplessis shook the walls with their heated debates which also attracted thousands of spectators.

On April 14, 1936, the mayor presided over the official opening of the « Industrial Exposition » at Atwater Market. Nearly 50 companies exhibited all kinds of products on the third floor of the market. On September 6, 1939, it was announced that the Canadian Military Authorities had requisitioned the Atwater Market Building.

In the 60’s, the butcher’s stalls on the 3rd floor disappeared due to regulation changes for selling live and slaughtered animals. In 1968, thanks to the efforts of the Municipal Administration, the residents of St-Henri succeeded in preserving the Atwater Market despite the decision of Mayor Drapeau to close it.

In June of 1982, the president of the city’s executive committee, Yvon Lamarre, presided over the official re-opening of Atwater Market after $1.2 million worth of renovations were completed.