La Tulipe owners say venue still at risk despite city settlement
Posted February 5, 2026 9:11 am.
Last Updated February 5, 2026 9:51 am.
The owners of La Tulipe say the historic Montreal performance venue remains in a fragile position, despite a newly announced settlement between the City of Montreal and a neighbouring property owner.
City officials acknowledged a bureaucratic error that had allowed a nearby commercial space to be converted into residential use, triggering years of noise complaints, police visits, fines, and legal battles for the century-old venue.
While La Tulipe’s owners welcomed the city’s move to correct the situation, they say the damage has already been done.
The dispute, which began in 2019, led to court proceedings that ultimately forced the venue to halt operations, a situation made worse by pandemic-related closures.
The owners say they spent significant sums on legal fees, lost operating revenue, and were left with costly upgrades now required to reopen, including soundproofing, staff rehiring, programming, and restoration work on the heritage building.
They also note that while the neighbouring property received financial compensation, La Tulipe did not. The owners say they are now appealing to multiple levels of government for support to ensure the venue can reopen and reclaim its place in Montreal’s cultural landscape.
