During a recent trip to Montreal, amidst the charming cobblestone streets and vibrant arts scene, I stumbled upon a truly unique and utterly fascinating attraction: the Barbie Expo.
Tucked away within the Les Cours Mont-Royal shopping center in downtown Montreal, this permanent exhibit offered a surprising and nostalgic detour from my usual city explorations. (And I found out it's been around for more than 10 years!)
I initially heard about it through a local friend and, intrigued by the idea of an entire exhibition dedicated to Barbie, decided to dedicate an afternoon to it. What I discovered was far more impressive and artistic than I had anticipated.
The Barbie Expo boasts the largest collection of Barbie dolls in the world, with over 1,000 unique dolls on display. And perhaps the most surprising detail of all? Admission is absolutely free.
Stepping into the exhibit, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale and variety. The dolls are meticulously arranged in expansive glass cases, each one a miniature masterpiece. It wasn't just a collection of toys; it was a vibrant showcase of fashion history, pop culture and global diversity. I found myself wandering from one display to another, captivated by the intricate details of each outfit and the imaginative scenarios depicted.
The collection features an astonishing array of designer Barbies, dressed in haute couture creations by legendary names like Oscar de la Renta, Vera Wang, Christian Dior and Bob Mackie. These weren't the Barbies my generation grew up with; these were runway-ready divas, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and artistic vision.
Beyond the high fashion, there were celebrity look-alike dolls, from Marilyn Monroe to Beyoncé, each perfectly capturing the essence of the icon. I also loved seeing the international collection, where Barbie celebrated cultures from around the world in traditional attire and the historical figures, reimagining Barbie as famous women throughout history.
My inner child rejoiced, but my adult self was equally impressed by the artistry and the unexpected cultural commentary woven throughout the exhibition. It felt like walking through a miniature museum, celebrating creativity and imagination.
Before you judge: I never owned a Barbie, I never had an interest in them, but this surely gives you a new appreciation for the doll as a piece of art.
Whether you're a lifelong Barbie enthusiast, a fashion aficionado, or simply looking for an unexpected and free attraction in Montreal, I highly recommend a visit. It’s a truly unique experience that manages to be both informative and incredibly fun.