STREET performers, music, a pétanque competition and an open-air cinema are all part of a programme of events to mark Bastille Day celebrations, as Le French Festival returns for the fourth time.
The five-day festival promises to celebrate Jersey’s French connections and be an opportunity to develop ‘long-lasting relationships’, according to directrice of the Maison de la Normandie et de la Manche Christine Bonhomme.
The Norman Market is making a welcome return today, with traders in the Royal Square until Saturday.
Performers include the musical act Lyrisme de Rue, Breton musical trio Tapagwen and hula hoop performer Angèle.
Other highlights in the programme include open-air screenings in the Royal Square of the films La Panthère des Neiges, and the Opéra de Rennes’ performance of L’Elixir d’Amour.
Organisers chose the poster for the festival from 47 competition entries submitted by five schools, deciding on a yellow jersey-clad Jersey cow, designed by nine-year-old Michal from Ecole FLAM (Français Langue Maternelle) Jersey.
Ms Bonhomme said: ‘We are delighted to bring a Norman flavour to Le French Festival’s programme of events with artists and traders coming from Normandy.
‘In addition to highlighting the particular connection between Jersey and Normandy, Le French Festival is an opportunity for the Norman “cousins” not only to showcase their many talents but also to work towards creating and developing long-lasting relationships.
‘Maison de la Normandie et de la Manche’s involvement in Le French Festival is an extra way to show the commitment of Région Normandie and Conseil Départemental de La Manche to strengthen our cooperation with Jersey.’
For the French national day on Friday 14 July, Islanders can expect a vin d’honneur (complimentary drinks), La Marseillaise, and performances by Ballet d’Jèrri and French section Eisteddfod winners.
A full schedule is available at lefrenchfestivalci.com.
