Francophone Book Fair

Écrit par Marina Turbide

Special note – Francofest Book Fair

All Book Fair events are held in French, but this is a great opportunity to practice the language! With books for all ages, families — including children in French immersion programs — will find titles suitable for young readers. The Book Fair is perfect for discovering Francophone literature, practicing reading skills, and exploring French-language culture in a fun and engaging way.

Sponsored by Jules Chamberlain/ Estèle Jehan - Red Door Realty

Welcome to the Annual Francofest Book Fair!

Every year, this Book Fair opens its doors to the community, offering a French-language program for all: workshops, performances, live interviews, author meet-and-greets, and much more.

As the only French-language book fair in the province, it’s a unique opportunity to browse French books, purchase titles for the year ahead (and even for the upcoming holiday season), and meet authors who are sure to inspire you.

Francofest’s Book Fair is a true celebration of literature and the cultures that surround it. Beyond public activities, the Francofest team works with local schools to offer literary workshops led by authors from October 27 to 31, giving students a chance to explore literature from a fresh perspective and nurture their love of books.

Public Program Highlights:

Wednesday, October 29

  • 5:00–7:00 p.m. – École du Carrefour, George Cottreau Hall: Opening evening with Ensemble vocal Les Voix d’Acadie, followed by a cocktail with authors (books and signings on site)

  • 7:45–9:30 p.m. – Wooden Monkey, Dartmouth: Panel discussion “The Place of Women Through Time” with Julia Malye, Julie Pellissier-Lush, Julie Gagnon, and Benjamin Audoye. 16+, ticketed dinner

Thursday, October 30

  • 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. – Alliance Française Halifax: Brunch and meet-up with Julia Malye. 16+

  • 2:00–4:00 p.m. – Université Sainte-Anne, Halifax campus: In-person or online session with Julia Malye – presentation and Q&A

  • School visits at École du Carrefour and École de Bois Joli throughout the day

  • 3:00–5:00 p.m. – Invitation for early childhood educators, Francophone school teachers, French immersion teachers, and university professors. Light refreshments provided and an opportunity to meet the authors.

  • 3:00–5:00 p.m. – École du Carrefour: Book Fair opens to the public

  • 6:00–8:00 p.m. – Bulwark Cider House: LGBTQ+ literary evening with Benjamin Audoye, hosted by Brooke Rivers and Trinity Foxx. 16+, dinner not included.

Friday, October 31

  • Performance for ages 5–12: Zak, Dompteur de Défis, presented by Radio-Canada for students from Bois Joli and Carrefour schools

  • CSAP school visits throughout the school day

  • 3:00–5:00 p.m. – École du Carrefour: Book Fair open to the public

Saturday, November 1 – École du Carrefour

  • Author-led workshops

  • Animation and discussion with C98, Halifax’s Francophone radio: La Francophonie Through Time

  • Exhibition of young Francophone artists

  • Literary selections curated by Bouton d’Or d’Acadie and Librairies Pélagie of Shippagan

  • Café & treats available to support the Jeux de l’Acadie 2026

  • Decorations created by youth in the community

  • Performance for ages 5–12: Zak, Dompteur de Défis, presented by Radio-Canada

The Francofest Book Fair is made possible with the kind participation of Éditions Bouton d’Or d’Acadie and Librairie Pélagie de Shippagan, without whom this event could not happen!

Marina Turbide
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