Francofête is back!

McGill Francofête, a celebration of the French language, is about to kick off nearly two weeks of activities on the University’s campuses.

The 2025 edition, which runs March 10-21, celebrates French as a language of diversity, one spoken in many places and in many forms; one that embodies McGill’s richness and diversity. Focusing on three main themes this year – language of knowledge, language of creation and language of sharing – these festivities invite francophones and francophiles to celebrate a language that enlivens, inspires and unites campuses and communities in Montreal and beyond.

Highlights include French-language conferences, workshops, cultural events, contests, an outdoor event where participants use clues to discover important sites in Montreal and a mobile sugar shack.

“It is with great pleasure that we launch the 2025 edition of Francofête at McGill University. On our campuses, the French language enriches the McGill experience profoundly, while expanding horizons for all members of our community” said Deep Saini, President and Vice-Chancellor, who will serve as the guest of honour for this year’s festivities. “For me, French as a language of diversity represents many things, including: the opening of new opportunities, personal growth and a deepened appreciation of Québécois culture.”

Approximately 20 per cent of McGill’s students and employees are francophone, and 60 per cent of McGill students can speak French.

“This year’s theme speaks volumes for us: French as a language of diversity. We want to create a place for exchange, sharing and discovery, inviting people to come together and celebrate the language,” said Manon Gadbois, a member of the Francofête organizing committee and Project Leader of the Vivre McGill en français initiative.

For students, by students

McGill’s first Francofête took place more than 20 years ago and was spearheaded by students. That tradition continues, as this year’s organizing committee includes representatives from student associations, as well as various Faculties and units.

“It is a great source of pride for me to contribute to McGill Francofête,” said Maëla Dube, an undergraduate student in the Faculty of Arts who serves as SSMU’s Francophone Affairs Commissioner. “I hope it will be an opportunity for the entire community, francophones and non-francophones alike, to discover the richness and diversity of the McGill Francophonie.”

“It’s a unique event that brings us closer together, thanks to its varied programming said Marion Vergues, a member of the organizing committee and director of the French Language Centre. “We invite people from the McGill community to celebrate our diversity.”

Below are just a few examples of the activities taking place during the festivities. For the complete program, please visit mcgill.ca/francofete