Celebrate Joie de Vivre on May 25
By Contributor
The West Kootenay Francophone Association (AFKO) is delighted to announce the long-awaited YÉ DAY FEST, an event featuring an interactive and family-friendly challenge zone themed around the Francophonie, a scavenger hunt through the shops of Rossland, a costume contest, live music, circus performances, and a European-style market. YÉ DAY FEST will take place on May 25, 2024, on Spokane Street and Esling Park in Rossland, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
“YÉ DAY FEST promises an unforgettable experience for participants. Picture a giant poutine catapult, a comedic duel with French baguettes, a maple syrup target challenge, a climbing tower resembling the Eiffel Tower, all while an accordionist plays in the park. You don’t need to speak French, just be ready to embrace the joy of living,” explained Mélanie Mercier, event coordinator.
“We are thrilled to bring together the community, Anglophones and Francophones alike, to celebrate what makes our culture so unique and joyful,” added Eloïse Speleers, also an event coordinator at AFKO.
The most unique and original element of the YÉ DAY FEST event consists of a three-part game. For each successfully completed part, participants have a chance to submit their team name for a chance to win a variety of prizes offered by partners.
The obstacle zone, open to all, from ages 6 to 99, regardless of language spoken is the heyday of the game. Teams of two members will have 10 challenges to complete! This part of the event costs only $8 per person, so you don’t necessarily have to pay to win!
Second part: search for the ten hidden clues representing the ten challenges in the shop windows of participating businesses starting from May 18. Your name will be entered into the lottery a second time. On the day of YÉ DAY FEST, come dressed in attire/costume/accessories that remind you of Francophonie! Dare to parade on our red carpet at 3:30 PM on May 25. Receive a third chance to slip your name into the draw!
Find all the rules on the YÉ DAY FEST official passport at participating stores (Curiosity Clothing Boutique, Mountain Nugget Chocolate company, Rossland Lumber, Revolution cycle, Rossland Beer Company, The Old Cellar, the Rooted Table Collective, Goldrush bookstore, Ferraro foods).
Register online at https://www.afko.ca/ye-day-fest-dare-to-embrace-joie-de-vivre-en/ or on-site on May 25 on Spokane Street starting from 1:00 PM.
The small French market where you can find local artisans, Quebecois or French-origin food, and performances of Francophone and local music from the West Kootenays is open to all for free from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM.The AFKO.Sérigraphie studio is also coming out to give you a live demonstration of this printing process, which can be used to personalize any flat surface. Bring a tee-shirt!
YÉ DAY FEST is a unique opportunity for the Rossland community and beyond to immerse themselves in Francophone culture. This event is not just about celebrating French language and culture; it’s about embracing art, sports, and joy. It’s a first edition of a one-of-a-kind concept not to be missed!
Join us at YÉ DAY FEST for a day filled with laughter, games, and French-style festivities.
