French Fest - Let’s celebrate francophonie in all its forms!

Get ready to experience an exceptional day: French Fest, a francophone festival that celebrates all the nuances of Sudbury’s francophonie. More than just an event, French Fest is a true reflection of the cultural richness of our community—an invitation to come together, to engage in dialogue, to feel deeply, and to be moved as one.

At the heart of this festival: an inclusive and contemporary vision of francophonie. In Sudbury, speaking French is a matter of the heart, of roots, of heritage, but also of choice, openness, and encounters. That’s why French Fest highlights a plural francophonie—made up of local francophones, francophones from immigrant backgrounds, curious and engaged anglophone francophiles, and not to forget the families who are shaping the future of our culture.

This year, French Fest offers a program that is bold, unifying, and deeply rooted in the francophone experience. Whether you’re franco-curious, franco-proud, or simply looking for a moment of connection and culture, French Fest is your not-to-be-missed event of the season. Come celebrate your francophonie, as it is, as it lives, in Sudbury.

A vibrant stage pulsing to the rhythm of a diverse Francophonie!

First up, head to the theater with Mourir de trop gueuler by Créations In Vivo, co-presented with Théâtre du Nouvel-Ontario. A physical and comedic play, blending raw emotions and intensity.

Then, it’s time for the Bilinguish Boys! Featuring Stef Paquette, Dayv Poulin, and Édouard Landry, this unique show combines covers, humor, and audience participation.

Finally, in co-presentation with the Northern Lights Festival Boréal, French Fest welcomes Djely Tapa, a modern griot and Quebec artist of Malian origin, who will transport the audience with her powerful melodies.

The Foire familiale (Family Fair) is paradise for kids and fun for grown-ups!

Games, activities, challenges, and attractions enliven the space, specially designed by Carrefour francophone’s Children’s Services. Every family can venture in and discover games suitable for all ages.

Nicholas Dupuis will love this festival of colors, where music and creativity take over the streets! With youth activities, artistic discoveries, and a carnival atmosphere, there will be plenty of fun to be had. The party promises to be memorable.

It’s a great opportunity for children to have fun and for parents to share a unique moment. Don’t miss it!

A culinary journey… around an ear of corn!

Here, we like it with butter. In Mexico, they add lime and cayenne pepper. In Cameroon, roasted peanuts make your taste buds dance.

The French Fest Dessert Bar is much more than just a treat: it’s a meeting of cultures, an invitation to taste the French-speaking world in all its flavors. All grilled over a campfire, just like in the good old days.

Under the watchful eye of our friend Stef Paquette,

A cornhole court will be available throughout the day: come and play for free, alone, with friends, or with family.

Then, it’s time for the challenge! Carrefour francophone will face off against its partners in a friendly tournament that promises epic moments and lots of laughter.

Who will hit the mark and claim victory? Come watch this festive competition and cheer on your favorites!

When the flame brings people together…

The French Fest campfire becomes the beating heart of the evening. Stories and oral traditions are shared, sing-alongs are sung, and warm treats are enjoyed.

  • By day: sweet corn and potatoes cooked over hot coals.
  • By night: s’mores, bannock, and flambéed plantains.

Stories, laughter, music, and delicacies: everything tastes better “around the fire.”

Make way for local discoveries!

The French Fest’s “petit marché” (mini market) brings together artisans and merchants from the region, proud to share their creativity and expertise. Jewelry, accessories, beauty products, decorative items… so many handmade treasures to explore.

It’s the perfect place to stroll, chat with passionate artisans, and leave with a unique and authentically local souvenir.

French Fest evening is also a magical evening specially designed for children!

On site, on level 2 of Place des Arts, the beautiful Place des tout-petits daycare centre will welcome 15 children aged 0 to 12 for an evening just for them from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. On the program: creativity, fun, and relaxation in a safe and welcoming environment while the grown-ups enjoy the festival.

A great opportunity to have fun with friends and fully enjoy the festive spirit of French Fest!
Sign up your little ones now!

French Fest is 100% free to attend, and even transportation is free with GOVA Transit! Just indicate that you are participating in a non-profit event, which French Fest is!

In case of rain, don’t worry! We will meet at Place des Arts to continue the festivities in the dry and in good spirits!

La Slague thanks its sponsors!

A special thank you to our French Fest sponsors!

Your contribution is greatly appreciated.

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