How sweet that there is a full return to the sugar shack, Sugar Shack, with new events in 2023 after pandemic restrictions have stifled the goodness and enjoyment of our social systems over the past few years.
The Association of Francophones and Francophones (AFFNO) will host the 13th Annual Traditional French Canadian Festival from January 26-29 in Prince Rupert, with Kitmes from February 23-26, followed by Smithers Festival on March 4.
The French non-profit advocacy and education association, which offers programs in the country’s second official language, is headquartered further north in Prince Rupert, where all-ages and family-focused events kick off January 26 (Thursday) with kick-off. Cowpuccinos’ Social Contract. Doors open at 7 pm. Entrance to the comfortable, intimate 30-seat venue is $5.00, with local entertainment.
Friday night dessert theater turns into sweet treats at 8pm with improvisation, laughter and mouth-watering desserts at Tom Rooney Theatre. Entrance to the 80-seat venue costs $15 and tickets sell out fast and are available at Homework, said Patrick Witwicky, executive director of AFFNO.
Piece de Restaurant is a Saturday brunch staple with pancakes, maple syrup, tortillas, sugar pie, maple candy on sticks, and traditional desserts. Andrew Goulet will insert dance and cultural songs to entertain the audience. The party celebrating the Sap Run and the beginning of maple syrup season begins at 12 p.m. in the Jim Ciccone Civic Center Auditorium, with doors opening at 11:30 a.m.
Tickets for the family event, where there will be live entertainment and festival experiences, are $20 for adults and $15 for ages 12 and under. Tickets for brunch can be purchased at Cooks Jewelers, through AFFNO online or by calling the office at (250) 627 1313.
“Ticket prices had to be increased slightly this year to offset inflation and rising costs,” Witwicky said, but added that there will be fun, amusement and surprises all around because the memories are worth it.
A new event added to the program this year is the traditional artists’ workshop promoting Canadian heritage on Sunday afternoons at the Prince Rupert Library. This free rice rose art workshop is open to anyone over 12 years of age. Registration is mandatory as places are limited.
“This event is a new addition especially for the promotion of First Nations art in a trilingual environment,” said Witwicky, adding that a French interpreter will be available for those who wish to use French and Sm’algyax will also participate.
The festive fun ends at the Sugar Wrap-Up Party, with an open mic session at Wheel House Brewing Company on Saturday. January 28, from 8 p.m. Admission is free.
“It’s great that we can return to normal business hours without restrictions,” said the CEO. “We can’t wait to see all the friendly faces we haven’t seen in a few years.”
