Weekly Montreal gatherings help neighbours become friends

In Montreal’s NôtreDamedeGrâce neighbourhood, residents Jenny Donovan and Andy Froncioni have started a weekly event called NDG Neighbour Nights to help people living nearby get to know one another. The informal gatherings, held on King Edward Avenue, bring together about 20 adults at a time, including many who are meeting for the first time. Neighbours chat, share drinks and music, and often invite passersby to join in. Donovan said the idea came from a desire to rebuild everyday social connections, which she feels have weakened in recent years, especially after the pandemic. Participants said the events have made it easier to recognize neighbours, say hello while walking, and feel more comfortable asking for or offering help. Donovan hopes the model will inspire similar efforts in other communities.