Canada’s national stamp show, Royale 2025 Filex, opens this Friday, April 25, at Plaza Universel in Montreal with a robust two-day program for collectors of all ages and experience levels.
Hosted by the Fédération québécoise de philatélie (FQP) in celebration of its 60th anniversary, the event promises an engaging lineup of exhibits, expert-led talks, youth workshops, and exclusive souvenirs. Doors open at 9 a.m. Friday, and the show runs through Saturday afternoon.
The opening day features several philatelic presentations, including Yves Drolet’s look at Montreal’s 1925 exhibition, an introduction to auxiliary markings by Gregg Redner, and sessions by Luc Fèvre and Gilles Morel. The Friday evening Presidents’ Reception, a long-standing show tradition, will offer a relaxed, social setting for philatelists, hosted by FQP president Louis Cantin and Royal Philatelic Society of Canada (RPSC) president Gregg Redner.
On Saturday, April 26, highlights include Yan Turmine’s updated research on early cross-border mail, and Ingo Nessel’s session on 1980s Canadian booklet stamps. The formal awards banquet will cap off the event that evening, honouring exhibitors and marking the FQP’s milestone year.
Throughout the weekend, collectors can explore a diverse dealer bourse, view competitive exhibits, and meet with experts from across Canada and abroad. The Académie québécoise d’études philatéliques will debut its latest Opus publication, while François Brisse will launch a new bilingual reference on Quebec postal markings. Brisse’s custom-designed special cancellations and Jean-Charles Morin’s limited-edition vignettes celebrating the beaver will be available as show souvenirs.
A highlight for design enthusiasts will be a presentation by Pascal Rabier, president of L’Art du Timbre Gravé, who is travelling from France to discuss the craft of engraved stamp art. His organization is also donating engraved prints for hourly prize draws.
Admission and parking are free. The venue, 5000 Sherbrooke St. E., is a short walk from Montreal’s Viau metro station. Show hours are Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information, email filex2025@outlook.com or visit philatelie.qc.ca/royale-2025-filex.