Lets celebrate la Francophonie together!

– Saturday March 7th 2026 –

The qathet Francophone Festival returns in 2026 for its 16th edition! This spring, dive into the heart of Francophonie with bilingual music by Beau Nectar, maple taffy on snow, cultural discoveries, and moments of connection. A celebration not to be missed!

This festival is funded by the Government of Canada

A traditional sugar shack brunch will be served, featuring crepes, omelettes, bacon, sausages, baked beans, pea soup, fruit salad, and unlimited maple syrup! There will be two seatings: 10:00 am and 11:00 am. 

Maple taffy on snow will also be prepared with organic Quebec maple syrup from Cosman & Webb..

$20.00 | adult

$14.00 | child 12 and under

free | child 4 and under

Beau Nectar is a bilingual collaboration between two singer-songwriters, Marie-Clo and éemi. The duo creates intimate and vibrant synth/pop/folk music, drawing inspiration from flora and fauna, and inviting audiences into a deep sense of empathy for the natural world.

Learn more about Beau Nectar here.

The evening will open with Vincent “DIO” Deslauriers, an author, poet, rapper, and creativity facilitator known for his unique approach that blends writing, introspection, and personal transformation. At the 2026 Francophone Festival, Vincent will present singing and rap that also share the story of the francophone community in the qathet region.

To close out the festival day, DJ Blaise & Elm will deliver a festive, dance-filled DJ set!

$20.00 | adult

$12.00 | 18 and under

free | child 4 and under

At 1:00 p.m., join us for a Family Rhythm and Drumming Workshop with France Gendron. With drums in hand, participants will create rhythms and move together using fun, mnemonic phrases. For school-aged children.

Following that, at 2:00 p.m., the Living Memories (Mémoires vivantes) booth will be facilitated by Vincent DIO. Come share your memories connected to Francophonie. Open to all ages.

Throughout the afternoon, enjoy:

– Children’s activity passport: scavenger hunt, balloon sculpting with Jean-Marc Ouellet, crafts, Orca Bus, and more
– Just Frys Food Truck: enjoy delicious poutine
– Fire and marshmallows

As part of the Francophone Festival, the public library is offering two Francophone storytelling sessions with Sonia Zagwyn, specially designed for young children and their families. A gentle and playful moment to discover the French language through stories, images, and imagination.

Wednesday, March 4
10:30–11:00 a.m.

Thursday, March 5
10:30–11:00 a.m.

Location: Powell River Public Library

Francophone Film Screenings, Friday March 6th: as part of Rendez-vous de la Francophonie 2026, we invite you to discover a selection of Francophone short films from NFB. These screenings offer a rich and diverse look at Francophone cultures across Canada. More information on the programs: https://events.nfb.ca/program/rendez-vous-de-la-francophonie-2026/

Program 5: On the Ice and in the Woods – Sport as Culture (Elementary students)

10:00–10:45 a.m.
11:00–11:45 a.m.
12:00–12:45 p.m.

Program 1: Urban Forests (Secondary students)
1:00–2:35 p.m.

Location: Powell River Public Library