Festival du Bois, the annual celebration of Francophone culture in British Columbia, returns to Maillardville’s Mackin Park on March 8-10 for its 35th anniversary.
“This year, Festival du Bois celebrates the history and culture of the community of Maillardville and 35 years of showcasing great francophone music and culture that spans geography, traditions, cultures and genres,” says festival artistic director Joanne Dumas in a media release.
The festival begins on March 8 with an all-ages free event featuring the Podorythmie gals’ music and dance followed by a “called” contradance with the Sybaritic String Band and caller Maureen Collier.
The celebration continues on March 9 & 10 with concerts by festival artists in the Grand Chapiteau (Big Tent), shows in the Petit Chapiteau, offering performances for kids, a showcase of Métis culture and history in The Métis Village Experience, and roving performers. Nearby Mackin House will welcome festival attendees to workshops presented by various festival artists throughout the weekend.
In recognition of the 2024 Acadian Congress, a gathering of the Acadian diaspora that occurs only every five years, the festival will shine a spotlight on the Acadian music tradition, presenting some of its finest artists.
“Our 2024 lineup welcomes amazing musicians from New Brunswick, PEI, Quebec, Washington State and from right here in BC,” says Dumas. “And we’re thrilled to again partner with the North Fraser Métis Association for the Métis Village Experience. Folks from every language and background are invited to come join the friendly, happy festival crowds on site. There’s so much to discover and enjoy.”
The 35th-anniversary Festival du Bois takes place at Mackin Park in Maillardville/Coquitlam from March 8-10. Visit festivaldubois.ca for more information.