20 Vivaciously Vibrant #MTLMOMENTS In Autumn

Come fall, the lush greenery of Montreal turns to a stunning explosion of yellow, orange, red, and even purple. But why? Scientifically it’s because the chlorophyll in the leaves have started to break down, due to the shorter days and colder temperatures. This reveals the yellow and orange colours. After a little bit of time, a chemical process creates the red anthocyanin pigments. Science aside, this flash of vibrant colours illuminates the city for its most photogenic moment. Here are 20 vivaciously vibrant #MTLMOMENTS taken by locals and visitors all over the city…

Leaves mingle in the air around the Basilique Marie-Reine-du-Monde Cathedrale in downtown Montreal. (Photo by tobrook)

With over 100 “likes” – this beautiful maple leaf gets its 15 minutes of internet fame. Can’t wait for the “Where Are They Now” special on VH1. (Photo by paulineetbounty)

Summer flowers slowly make room for the seasonal Cucurbita, from the Cucurbitaceae family of fruits. (Yes, you just got taught the name for the plant family that includes pumpkin, squash, and zucchini.) (Photo by jackieruedaphotography)

Rooftop view of downtown Montreal on a dreamy fall afternoon. (Photo by fred514)

The little alleys of the Mile End look quite quaint dressed in fall colours, don’t you think? (Photo by alexrousseau)

Wish these trees could stay this shade all year… But I suppose the temporary flare is what makes it beautiful. (Photo by gutoveneno)

Pumpkins vying for attention at the Atwater Market. We have to admit, pumpkin wigs are GENIUS. (Photo by kevbothomp)

The hashtags say it all: #farine #fiveroses #mtlmoments #bixi #love #perfectday #canal #lachine. (Photo by alexiavlnz)

A classic view from the top of Mount-Royal with some hints of fall poking through the trees. (Photo by felipecollado)

Blogger’s note: After scrolling through what seems like a thousand #MTLMOMENTS on Instagram to curate photos for this article, it’s official: Feet selfie standing in leaves is the trendiest pose of the season. Also, normcore is so in right now. (Photo by maya53)

Thousands line up on the Jacques-Cartier bridge for the Montreal Marathon. (Photo by pjjmendoza)

Lanterns illuminate the gorgeous Botanical Gardens at Espace Pour La Vie.  (Photo by dserradji)

One last frolic through the fountains in the Quartier des Spectacles on a summery fall day. (Photo by rmhalland)

The iconic red street signs in Old Montreal camouflaged in the fall foliage. (Photo by littlestar04)

Light diffuses delicately through the picturesque scene at Square Victoria. (Photo by dhimbert)

A golden puppy models next to Canal Lachine. Certain knows its angles! (Photo by askalsky )

A loving sunset over Montreal. (Photo by valerystate)

A sunrise silhouettes the Clock Tower and the Biosphere over the Saint Laurence. (Photo by catchthepaperplane)

Another gratuitous picture of seasonal squash. (Photo by lea_raciop)

Quintessentially autumn in Montreal. (Photo by freddomtl

Take advantage of your stay in Montreal with this Sweet Deal package!