Event Details

The Festival Franco-Ontarien (FFO) was founded in 1975 to advance the cultural and artistic development of Ontario's Francophone community. The festival, held annually in mid-June, has grown into a unique platform for renowned and emerging Franco-Ontarian and Canadian artists in music, dance, theatre, and visual arts. Family activities such as storytelling and buskers are also included. This organization was incorporated in 2006 after the previous one declared bankruptcy following the 2005 edition of the Festival.

This application is for the 50e anniversaire du festival Franco-Ontarien (Festival Franco-Onatrien’s 50th Anniversary) taking place June 12 to 14, 2025 at Major’s Hill Park in Ottawa. This event is a flagship for the Festival, mobilizing local, national and international audiences. Programming includes:

(1) retrospective photographic exhibition: an open-air installation featuring striking photos from the past 50 years that will remain accessible throughout the Festival;

(2) great retrospective show with confirmed artists Robert Paquette, Mélissa Ouimet and Yao, directed by François Dubé and DJ UNPIER;

(3) VIP cocktail reception bringing together elected officials, former presidents, and cultural partners;

(4) "Call me back" activity featuring a phone line where people can leave messages related to their memories of the festival. Festival-goers will be able to listen to these messages broadcast in an immersive booth during the event; and

(5) participatory choir: each evening, a host will invite the crowd to sing a culturally representative Franco-Ontarian song.