Les Rendez-vous

March is recognized as the month of the Francophonie around the world. The 27th edition of Les Rendez-vous de la Francophonie (RVF) runs from March 1–31, bringing together Canadians, Acadians, Francophones, and Francophiles to celebrate and promote the French language across Canada and beyond, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and traditions. 

On PEI, the Francophone community has curated a vibrant, diverse, and educational program under the theme “Cultivate Your Roots!” Throughout March, Islanders will celebrate the deep-rooted traditions of Acadians and Francophones through a variety of activities, including performances, culinary delights, film screenings, outdoor activities, contests, and more.

Confederation Centre of the Arts (CCOA)—in collaboration with La Fédération culturelle de l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard, le Carrefour de l’Isle-Saint-Jean, Francofolies de Charlottetown, and Festival Route 11—will host a Mardi Gras concert and mask-making workshop on March 1. 

“We are honoured to partner with these organizations to co-host the launch of RVF, and to work closely with the community to bring quality francophone programming to the Island,” says Steve Bellamy, CEO at CCOA. “Last summer, the Acadian flag was added as a permanent fixture outside the Centre in recognition of the important contributions made by Acadians and Francophones on the Island. The Centre is proud to continue celebrating French-Canadian culture.”

The afternoon begins with the workshop at 2 pm in the Schurman Family Studio, honouring the centuries-old tradition—New Orleans’ Mardi Gras is North America’s biggest masked celebration. 

This activity will be followed by a Cajun two-step dance workshop with Philippe Billeaudeaux and Julie Aubé, hosted at The Guild (111 Queen St). 

That evening, at 7:30 pm, a concert at The Mack (128 Great George St) will feature a unique blend of traditional Acadian music from the Island and Cajun sounds from Louisiana. Featured performers include the Acadian group Vishtèn, alongside Louisiana’s Danser Collé, featuring multi-Grammy-nominated Roddie Romero, Kelli Jones, T’Monde, and Amelia Biere. 

“This event offers a unique opportunity to dive into the rich musical traditions of the francophone world, from the traditional sounds of the Island Acadians to the energetic rhythms of the Cajuns of Louisiana,” say Ghislaine Cormier and Émile Gallant, executive directors of FCÎPÉ and le Carrefour de l’Isle-Saint-Jean. “Come celebrate with us as we embrace the diversity and unity that make La Francophonie so unique and special.” 

Francophones and Francophiles on the Island and across Canada share their heritage with over 40 activities planned. Visit confederationcentre.com for concert tickets. Visit rvf.ca for the complete list of events and contests.