You’re planning an event in Montreal and want something guests will actually remember. Maybe the venue is already booked and the catering sorted, but you’re still looking for entertainment that stands out. That’s where a magician or mentalist can make all the difference.

Whether it’s a corporate gathering, wedding, or private party, live entertainment adds something unique. It gives people a shared moment to connect over. But one of the most common questions people have is simple: how much does it cost to hire a magician in Montreal?

Let’s break it down.

Why There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Price

There’s no fixed rate for hiring a magician or mentalist. That’s because every event is different. What you’re really investing in is the overall impact the performance will bring to your event.

Hiring a magician is similar to booking a DJ or photographer. Some are just starting out. Others are seasoned professionals. Some offer customized, high-touch experiences. All of that affects pricing.

What Influences the Cost of a Magician or Mentalist in Montreal?

Type of Performance

Not all performances are built the same. The format of the show plays a big role in the overall investment.

A mingling performance, also known as walkaround magic, is ideal for cocktail hours or receptions. The magician moves through the crowd and performs close-up illusions for small groups. It’s informal, interactive, and doesn’t require staging.
A close-up or stand-up show is a more structured performance delivered to a seated audience. This works well for after-dinner entertainment or as a featured part of your program.
A stage show for a larger crowd brings added complexity. In these cases, your magician or mentalist will likely need to work with your AV team to coordinate microphones, lighting, or projection so the performance reaches everyone in the room.

The larger the audience, the more technical requirements are involved, and that will factor into planning and pricing.

Type of Event

The style and purpose of your event can shift what’s needed. A luxury brand launch, a company holiday party, and a private dinner with 12 guests all have different goals and expectations.

More formal or high-stakes events often come with a need for more customization, planning, or production value.

Duration

The length of the performance will naturally influence the cost. A short appearance during cocktail hour is very different from a full evening of entertainment, especially if the magician is performing in multiple blocks or for different groups throughout the night.

Seasonality

The time of year can influence availability and how flexible performers can be with their scheduling. Certain periods, like December or peak weekends, tend to fill up quickly due to the high volume of corporate and private events.

While rates typically remain consistent, these busy dates often come with minimum booking requirements or less flexibility in pricing and duration. Performers may prioritize full-scale events during this time, and shorter engagements are harder to accommodate.

If you’re planning an event during a high-demand season, it’s a good idea to reach out early to secure your preferred date and discuss options that fit your event.

Travel and Location

If your event takes place outside of the Greater Montreal area, travel fees may apply. This could include transportation, accommodation if needed, and time spent in transit. These costs are typically added on top of the performance fee and vary depending on the distance and complexity of travel.

Experience and Recognition

Magicians and mentalists come at different levels of experience, and that plays a big role in what you’re investing in. Here’s how to understand the main categories:

Amateurs or Emerging Performers. These are newer performers who may still be part-time or building their skills. You might find them at small community events or doing shows on the side. While they can be enthusiastic and affordable, they may not have the consistency or polish of a more experienced professional.
Full-Time Professionals. These are seasoned performers who do this for a living. They’ve worked hundreds of events, know how to read a room, and bring a high level of professionalism. From communication to performance delivery, you can expect a smooth, refined experience that fits your event.

Public Figures or Celebrity Entertainers. These are magicians or mentalists who have been on TV, gone viral online, or are known by name. Booking them is not just about the show, it’s about the experience of having a recognizable face at your event. Their rates often include an appearance fee on top of the performance itself.

Customization

Some events call for a tailored approach. A mentalist might write a custom script based on your company values. A magician might incorporate your brand directly into a trick.

This kind of work takes time and creativity. While it’s not necessary for every event, it can elevate the experience when done right.

Should You Hire a Magician or a Mentalist?

It depends on the kind of atmosphere you want to create.

A magician brings energy, visual surprises, and interactive moments that get people laughing and reacting. Think sleight-of-hand, objects vanishing or transforming, and tricks that happen just inches from your guests.

A mentalist focuses more on the mind, reading thoughts, predicting choices, and creating moments that feel impossible. The tone is more intimate and mysterious, often leaving guests in stunned silence.

Some performers, like Bao, combine both styles to create a well-rounded experience that is exciting, surprising, and emotionally memorable.

If you are unsure which option fits best, a professional can guide you based on your audience, your goals, and the overall flow of your event.

What You’re Really Paying For

You’re not just paying for the time someone spends on at an event. You’re investing in:

Creative development and rehearsal
Pre-event coordination and communication
Travel, setup, and equipment
The ability to read a room, manage energy, and connect with your audience in real time
The long-term impression your guests will leave with

In the end, you’re paying for an experience that guests will talk about. That kind of memory often sticks with people far longer than the food or décor.

Why Going With the Cheapest Option Can Backfire

A low price might look good on paper, but it often comes with trade-offs. The performer might not have much experience or may rely on the same material at every event.

When the entertainment is one of the most memorable parts of your event, it’s worth making sure you’re working with someone reliable, professional, and engaging.

The Best Way to Get an Accurate Quote

The best way to get a clear and accurate quote is to speak directly with the performer.

A professional will not send you a long list of standard packages by email. Many of those options might not even suit your event. For example, a full night of mingling magic would not be the right fit for a small group of 25 people. On the other hand, a one-hour stage show is not ideal for an awards gala where the focus is on the speeches and presentations.

Instead of trying to fit your event into a pre-set package, a professional will ask about your goals, your guests, the flow of the evening, and the kind of experience you want to create.

From there, they can recommend the right format and give you a quote that reflects what your event actually needs.

If you want something that truly fits your event, the best way to start is with a quick call.

Let’s Talk

Hi, I’m Bao Hoang. I’m a professional magician and mentalist based in Montreal. I’ve had the chance to perform at corporate events, private parties, and brand activations across Canada, helping guests connect through shared, unforgettable moments.

If you’re planning an event and want to create something people will truly remember, I’d love to hear more.

For the fastest response, reach out through our contact page.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Magician or Mentalist in Montreal?