McSweeney’s List (25 March 2026)
STEPPING IN RIVERS
Shuffling papers and searching my notes app furiously; a bulletin board is behind me with scribbled thoughts and multiple pictures. Rainbows of thread connect them - springboks to selkies, floral country dresses to faded western boots, Travis Barker to the Rolex store (that time he went shopping on his reality show in a white tank top with shorts and his white socks pulled up high).
“What are you doing?”
“I have to make sure my essay’s done early, because we're going to a concert Tuesday night.”
“I thought that was last month.”
“Last month was Gogol Bordello with Puzzled Panther and Boris and The Joy. This week is Prof with Yelawolf and That Mexican OT. Wait! I just figured out the essay!”
The Gogol Bordello show marked the third time I'd seen them. We were there early, and I watched the people who sat on the floor leaning against the stage -- amusing each other, digging for trinkets in their small bags -- remembering when I was them, the unpredictable night still ahead. This time I stood at a table with a $4 bottle of water, waiting for my edible to kick in. Our coats were checked, the car parked conveniently underground, and I was already wearing my new Gogol Bordello shirt, purchased right away to take advantage of the fresh stock and lack of lines. At that moment, I felt so very old, and so very young, at once.
We went out to vape and smoke a joint before the show, leaving our jackets inside. The cold wind made me giddy (uncomfortable, but giddy). It felt like cigs in high school when I didn't want to get my jacket from my locker. It felt like late nights I hoped wouldn't end that had started as early days, and I was dressed for the sun. Let me freeze in this feeling and keep it.
When my parents were my age, they'd long ago given up on giddiness and adventure. They didn't have hobbies or date nights, they didn't go to new places or socialize. Years before she was my age, my mother had given up on getting down on the floor (“I won't be able to get back up”, she said), and I was simultaneously scared of getting old, and convinced I could probably do so differently.
Inside, the venue was filling up, and the people watching was excellent. Punks, hippies, someone in clown makeup; it was like TamTams with a mosh pit. There were a few kids with their parents, the youngest about 6 years old, and I wished my parents had been like that. (My own Kiddo was not a fan of the way big speakers vibrated in her chest the first time I brought her to an outdoor show. She was a fan of TamTams for a minute there.)
As the bands took the stage and the music played, I forgot myself in glorious fashion, realizing (as I do freshly at every show) that this is what I'm chasing. The freedom to dance and stomp, to scream at the good parts and wave my arms as part of the collective whole, letting the performers know that we are catching all that they are sending. It's transcendent. The mosh pit kept getting bigger, and we kept moving back. The crowd surfers were older than us, and that filled me with faith that adventure is always available to those willing to grab it and go for the ride.
The night wore on and my feet began to hurt from the standing and stomping, my arms from the waving, and I was tuckering. Still, I was present -- in the space, in the moment, in my body -- and wouldn't have traded it for comfort. There were times years ago when the soreness wouldn't have set in until the next day, waking up feeling like I'd done hard work, my neck aching from headbanging, but here we are.
I talked to Boris from Boris and the Joy; told him I hadn't heard of him before, but now I was a fan, and that I hoped he came back soon. It reminded me of the first time I saw Prof, in 2014. He'd been opening for Atmosphere, and I hadn't heard of him before either, and I became a fan on the spot. He gave out CDs to everyone who wanted them, and I made sure to get a fist bump too, because suddenly it mattered: he was awesome, and he'd only get awesomer, and I was eager to be on board for the ride. By the time you read this, I'll be wearing my new Prof T-shirt, reliving the night, wondering how 12 years can fly so fast while waiting for the bus can feel too long.
I bought a compilation CD and a Boris and the Joy shirt, overthinking it immediately. I've never bought two shirts at one show, and it felt like a grand indulgence. After so many years where tickets themselves were a financial strain, this was hedonistic luxury. Spiralling with second thoughts and shitting on myself for such an impulsive move, I remembered that I never regret these things once the moment passes. I will wear these shirts for years, and yes, every time I put a concert tee on, I briefly think about the concert itself, and get a little pep in my step. It's worth it every time (and I'm an adult who only has to answer to myself, and frankly, it's all fine, but I freaked myself out for an unnecessary moment).
In the end, I was buzzing with vibes, and happy to have my new goodies. The night was a poignant reminder that adulthood changes the experience, but that doesn't mean it diminishes it. The first time I saw Gogol, I got blackout drunk and missed most of the show, chain smoking outside, talking to strangers. The second time, I went alone. This time I came and went with my love, new treasures in hand, memory intact. Things change; we change. The grand adventure of following the things you love changes as your perspectives change. Priorities shift, and feelings move from the high pitched urgency of youth to the profound bass of something quietly vital. True that we can't step in the same river twice, but the key is to keep stepping in rivers for as long as you possibly can, and to savor each sweet dip.
FIGHT LIKE A GIRL
Pit Fight Wrestling is back for round 2!
March being the official women's history month, we wanted to honour it by celebrating with amazing and talented women from all around.
The main event will be a fatal 4 hardcore qualifying match for a chance to become the 1st PFW Women's Champion!
also, making her Montreal debut, from Chicago, BLAIR ONYX!!!
Onyx will be debuting against Maria Belmont in a Hardcore I Give the F@#& UP match! This one will be for the books!!
Kable will once again be defending his Nerdstock title against Josh Angel in a Nerdcore match! Can Kable keep his extremely long winning streak going?!?!
last but not least, Maniacal Maredes is pissed and wants Frank Milano in a grudge match for costing him the Nerdstock title. This might get violent!
Musical guests: Neurotoxic Cocktail
🎟️ $20 now, $30 at the door.
WHAT: PFW Celebrating Women's History Month
WHERE: Piranha Bar, 680 Rue St. Catherine St. W., Montreal, H3B 1C2
WHEN: Thursday, March 26, Doors @ 7 PM
METRO: McGill (Green)
TICKETS: ThePointOfSale
SPRING CELEBRATION
Ostara is the Pagan celebration of the spring equinox. We welcome the Goddess as she wakes up from her wintery slumber, and we exalt all the growth and wonder she brings with her!
And so we candidly invite you to join us for an interactive Ostara ritual, whether you are new to Paganism or a seasoned practitioner!
Please use the door on the right of the building to access the space. Guests will be given a half hour period from 6:45-7:15 to arrive before the ritual starts. The door will be locked at 7:15 to avoid interruptions to the ceremony, so please arrive on time! After the ritual, there will be a potluck, so you are encouraged to bring food to share with the other guests!
Hosted by Montreal Pagans.
WHAT TO BRING:
A drum or other percussive instrument
Food to share for the ritual & potluck. We're going to put a post with food ideas. We'd appreciate you commenting what you're bringing so we don't have 17 potato salads...
A cup, chalice, bottle, or other drinking vessel
$5 per participant (to cover the cost of renting the space and buying the materials)
Anything you would like to bring to decorate the altar (you will be returning home with your decorations)
The ritual will be bilingual for the convenience of all participants.
We look forward to your attendance!
TRIPPY
Back by popular demand! Welcome the return of the most phenomenal mashup in the history of cinema and music. Imagine the projection of 1939’s The Wizard Of Oz on 35mm film accompanied by a DJ spinning vinyl records by Pink Floyd. (Guest DJ: SARCASTIC) Expect the most WICKED trip to the movies you’ve ever had! With BIG screen and BIG sound.
It all takes place in the stunning architectural splendor of St. George’s Anglican Church where organist Shayne Gryn will warm up the audience with a short medley of your favourite rock anthems on the church’s ancient pipe organ. Then the lights go out, the reels and records start spinning…. and the strange journey begins. (18+)
Hosted by the Le Ciné Club: The Film Society.
Popcorn, sweets and drinks available.
18+
🎟️ 29$ / 24$ (students & 65+)
WHAT: The Dark Side of Oz - Wizard of Oz 35 mm X Pink Floyd Vinyl
WHERE: St. George’s Anglican Church, 1001 Canadiens-de-Montréal Ave., Montreal, H3B 3B3
WHEN: Saturday, March 28, Doors @ 6 PM, Show @ 7 PM
METRO: Bonaventure (Orange) & Peel (Green)
TICKETS: CineClubFilmSociety
PUTTING THE FUN IN FUNERAL
A Funeral. A Ritual. A Rebirth.
Have you ever wanted to attend an exclusive media launch party?
For the past few years, our indie press The Stygian Society has quietly published books, zines, and strange stories from the edges of horror and the paranormal.
On March 28, we’re laying it to rest.
But the thing is, good stories don't stay dead.
Join us at Studio 415 for a theatrical funeral where we say goodbye to the press as it has existed… and welcome the birth of Montreal’s newest horror media company.
Hosted by the notorious Andrew Jamieson, this immersive evening blends performance, storytelling, music, and a touch of the paranormal in a ceremony that is equal parts wake, séance, and launch party.
Throughout the night you’ll experience:
Eulogies and farewell tributes to the press
A ghoulish acoustic set by Derek Delaronde
Tarot readings and medium insights
A mini paranormal investigation experience
A ceremonial ritual marking the end of one era and the beginning of another
The official reveal of our new horror media company
The first public reading from our upcoming serial Mortal Things
A night that begins in mourning will end in celebration!
Whether you’ve followed our work for years or are discovering us for the first time, this event is designed to be welcoming, theatrical, strange, and memorable.
Come dressed for a funeral, a ritual, or somewhere in between.
We’ll handle the rest.
Wine available. BYOB welcome. All attendees will receive a special FOUNDING WITNESS package on arrival.
Let’s bury the past and raise something new.
🎟️ $15 now / $20 at the door.
WHAT: STYGIAN: Last Rites
WHERE: Halbro Building, 10 des Pins Ave. W. #415, Montreal, H2W 1P9
WHEN: Saturday, March 28, Doors @ 630 PM, Ritual @ 7 PM, Event Ends @ 1030 PM
METRO: Sherbrooke (Orange)
TICKETS: Eventbrite
World’s Smallest Comedy Night has so many cool things happening, so here are their events this week in order!
What Do You Know? Like, Seriously…
Tonight! Come to Hurley's for Trivia Night, and get bonus laughter! Enjoy delicious pub fare, and get ready to show off your trivia skills. Grab your team, and enjoy this night of comedy, friendly competition, and great company!
This edition is hosted by Vance Michel.
WHAT: Trivia Night at Hurley's
WHERE: Hurley's Irish Pub, 1225 Crescent St., Montreal, H3G 2B1
WHEN: Every Wednesday @ 8 PM
METRO: Lucien l'Allier (Orange) & Guy-Concordia (Green)
RSVP: Eventbrite
KINDNESS & CACKLES: ON SALE NOW!
After a successful Ladyfest debut, Toast’Er returns for a second edition!
This all lady night of laughter is a show like no other! Comedians pair off for toast battles, raising each other (and the vibes) to new heights! The compliment-offs are interspersed with comedy sets by this talented lineup, and the laughs are guaranteed!
Dawn McSweeney hosts, featuring Flo Penicaud, Julie Santini, Dayna Lieberman, Saanya Nanda, Elspeth Wright, and Abby Stonehouse.
Come out and enjoy a night of positivity, kindness, and cackles!
🎟️ $10, but no one turned away for lack of funds.
WHAT: Toast'er - Compliments Are Popping Up!
WHERE: Hurley's Irish Pub, 1225 Crescent St., Montreal, H3G 2B1
WHEN: Monday, March 30 @ 8 PM
METRO: Lucien l'Allier (Orange) & Guy-Concordia (Green)
TICKETS: Eventbrite
Dirty Monday
The Monday Night Dirty Mic is the place to be! Hosted by Vance Michel, every show is an unpredictable and unique experience as a hilarious collection of comedians from newbs to pros take the stage. See the best before anyone else, and catch seasoned locals doing their freshest funnies!
Comics: show-up, sign-up
WHAT: Monday Night Dirty Mic
WHERE: Hurley's Irish Pub, 1225 Crescent St., Montreal, H3G 2B1
WHEN: Every Monday, Sign-up @ 10 PM, Show @ 1030 PM
METRO: Lucien l'Allier (Orange) & Guy-Concordia (Green)
DETAILS: Facebook
