Gastronomy Takes the Virtual Stage at Seattle's French Fest: A Celebration of French-Speaking Cultures

Seattle Center Festál celebrates the tenth annual Seattle's French Fest: A Celebration of French-Speaking Cultures on March 20, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., presented by French Education Northwest. The free festival takes place virtually, including a robust program complete with virtual tours. This year's theme is gastronomy.

"French Fest is a fantastic opportunity to bring a little bit of France and the French-speaking countries to Seattle," said Executive Director of French Education Northwest Ariane Ogier. "This theme helps show just how important food is to the French culture."

Seattle's French Fest expands the representation of Francophone countries this year. Thanks to a partnership with the Consulate General of Canada in Seattle, Canadian Francophone TV personality Frederic Choiniere will serve as master of ceremonies for the day.

The festival draws its inspiration from "International Francophonie Day," an event organized in more than 100 countries every March 20 to celebrate the diversity of French-speaking cultures, traditions, ideas and dialects.

"French Fest encapsulates many French-speaking countries, giving Seattle communities the opportunity to celebrate and share in being One Seattle together," said Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell. "Through festivals like French Fest, we continue to embrace the city's many cultural traditions and customs."

The festivities will start with a virtual visit of the Goulaine castle near Nantes, organized by the Seattle Nantes Sister City Association. Participants will then have the opportunity to connect with the area's French schools and organizations through virtual games.

Festival participants can look forward to a variety of cooking demonstration from Seattle-based chefs. There will also be a virtual tour of the Lantern Brewery, a small independent microbrewery and tasting room in Greenwood which focuses on Belgian and French-style beers.

"Festál prioritizes the cultural diversity that makes Seattle what it is today," said Seattle Center Director Robert Nellams. "French Fest is one important piece that makes up the fabric of Seattle Center's many cultural events."

All French Fest activities are family-friendly, free of charge and open to all.