BANFF — An infamously French holiday will soon be hitting the streets of Banff with a special free concert at the Central Park gazebo.
The French Canadian Association of the Bow Valley (ACFA) is hosting Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, an annual celebration for French-Canadians across the country – marking the first time Banff has celebrated the occasion.
In a press release, the ACFA said the day was originally a religious holiday, but has become more of a celebration of the beginning of summer.
“For so many, Saint-Jean-Baptiste marks the beginning of summer, the end of school terms, and the time to start enjoying the outdoors with friends and family. But more importantly, it’s also a moment of great celebration,” the release said.
“It will be the first time that the ACFA régionale de Canmore-Banff will organize this event in Banff.”
The concert will see Banff’s own Francophone musician, John Michaelz alongside Cie, perform. As well, Les Rats de Swompe, originally from Ontario, will travel to the Bow Valley to perform their “new wave of traditional music.”
“This free concert will be a special occasion for the Francophone community to share the cultural pride and rich heritage of French-speaking Canadians with the community of the Bow Valley and visitors,” the release said.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day will be held at the Central Park Gazebo on Monday, June 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
