This release was issued under a previous government.
Les Rendez-vous de la Francophonie, an annual, national celebration, kicks off on March 6 with symbolic Franco-Albertan flag raising ceremonies in more than 20 municipalities across the province. These events will be followed by community gatherings, multicultural meetings, concerts, performances, contests, educational activities and more – all organized around the theme “La Joie de Vivre: Ça nous rassemble!”, which translates as “A love of life brings us together!”.
“Alberta’s growing francophone community is as diverse as it is vibrant. I encourage all Albertans, anglophones and francophones alike, to uncover their joie de vivre this month and take part in some of the many exciting events occurring during Rendez-vous.”
There’s plenty to do during Rendez-vous – including a public event hosted by the Honourable Gene Zwozdesky, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta on March 12 in the Legislature rotunda beginning at noon. Visit www.AlbertaCultureCalendar.ca to find out what’s happening in a community near you.
“The French speaking community of Alberta continues to experience impressive growth and March will be the perfect occasion for enthusiasts of the French language to come together and celebrate the vitality of Alberta’s Francophonie. Join us in experiencing our vibrant French cultures and discover our well-known joie de vivre during Les Rendez-vous de la Francophonie!”
Les Rendez-vous de la Francophonie is part of the events surrounding International Francophonie Day, which is celebrated by more than 50 countries on March 20. Approximately 10 million Canadians participate in the celebrations each year. Alberta has the highest Francophone net growth in Canada after Québec and Ontario, and the third largest minority Francophone population after Ontario and New Brunswick.