Join us on March 21 at the Alliance Française for the kickoff event of the French Cultures Festival in Houston. This year’s opening will celebrate Haitian culture and feature a panel discussion titled “Haïti au carrefour des cultures : créoles, francophones, anglophones” (“Haiti at the Crossroads of Cultures: Creole, Francophone, and Anglophone”). The conversation will bring together Haitian actor Jimmy Jean-Louis, Linsey Sainte-Claire, professor at Rice University, and Grégory Jean, analyst-writer at the Representation of the OIF for the Americas. The discussion will be followed by a festive gathering celebrating Haitian culture, with a special spotlight on compas music. 🎶
In this divided and threatening world, finding a place of refuge becomes essentially necessary. Global warming, mass extinction, nuclear proliferation, rising authoritarianism and the scepter of war are increasingly apparent. To retain our basic humanity, we all need a place of refuge from a reality that seems to have betrayed us. And there is a truly reliable place of refuge around us — Nature. Carol Berger’s ceramics and Isabelle Perreau’s photographs, in this exhibition, seek to remind us that Nature is the ultimate, easily accessible refuge. Returning to our source we find that we are but a tiny piece of a miraculous phenomenon . And we can carry on…
The Alliance Française de Houston presents Francophone Wanderings, a photography exhibition by the local photographer Fikry Botros. The exhibition features a collection of photographs taken in various Francophone countries, of candid unguarded moments from everyday life. Rather than focusing on landmarks or spectacle, Francophone Wanderings centers on lived experience: in streets, cafés, markets, and public spaces where language, culture, and routine intersect. Taken across multiple francophone regions, the images reflect both the shared rhythms of daily life and the subtle distinctions shaped by place, history, and local customs. Fikry’s approach is unobtrusive and empathetic. His work resists staging or intervention, allowing gestures, expressions, and fleeting interactions to unfold naturally. The result is a body of work that feels intimate without being intrusive, and documentary without being didactic. Francophone Wanderings supports Alliance Française de Houston’s mission to promote Francophone cultures through arts and cultural programming. The exhibition will be on view at the Alliance Française in Houston from March 1st to May 30th and is open to the public during regular hours. Exhibition Details Title: Francophone Wanderings Artist: Fikry Botros Venue: Alliance Française de Houston Location: 427 Lovett Blvd, Houston TX, 77006 Dates: March 15 to May 30, 2026 Exhibition schedule: Mon-Thurs 9:00am -43:30pm Fri 9:00am-2:00pm Sat 8:30am-12:00pm Sun Closed Admission: Free and open to the public
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Raw, intimate, and hauntingly beautiful, LOVE blurs the line between concert and theater in a powerful exploration of memory, grief, and connection. Set within the quiet intensity of a final farewell, spoken monologues unfold alongside the luminous music of Purcell and Dowland, including the aching strains of Flow My Tears and The Plaint. This bold new collaboration invites audiences into a space where music gives voice to the unspoken and silence carries its own weight. A singular artistic experience—stripped down, emotionally charged, and deeply human.
We will close our UCA Global French Studies Symposium and Film Festival with a screening of Les parapluies de Cherbourg, facilitated by French students at the College Square Retirement Community. Our university is one of only two in the country to be home to a senior retirement community located on campus. This screening will be the seventh in our dynamic series, which also features live music performances, guest speakers, and research panel presentations.
A Debut Work by Pascal Rambert & Antoine Plante Raw, intimate, and hauntingly beautiful, LOVE blurs the line between concert and theater in a powerful exploration of memory, grief, and connection. Set within the quiet intensity of a final farewell, spoken monologues unfold alongside the luminous music of Purcell and Dowland, including the aching strains of Flow My Tears and The Plaint. This bold new collaboration invites audiences into a space where music gives voice to the unspoken and silence carries its own weight. A singular artistic experience—stripped down, emotionally charged, and deeply human.
A Debut Work by Pascal Rambert & Antoine Plante Raw, intimate, and hauntingly beautiful, LOVE blurs the line between concert and theater in a powerful exploration of memory, grief, and connection. Set within the quiet intensity of a final farewell, spoken monologues unfold alongside the luminous music of Purcell and Dowland, including the aching strains of Flow My Tears and The Plaint. This bold new collaboration invites audiences into a space where music gives voice to the unspoken and silence carries its own weight. A singular artistic experience—stripped down, emotionally charged, and deeply human.
Dictée en français pour les membres de Houston Accueil et les familles d'EFGH
Bring your little ones to our Toddler Playtime for a fun and interactive experience! This event is perfect for children ages 18-36 months and their caregivers. Enjoy creative play, celebrate your child's developmental milestones, and connect with other parents and caregivers in your community. Why attend? Engage in imaginative and collaborative play that supports your child's growth. Celebrate the skills your toddler is developing in a supportive environment. Connect with fellow parents and caregivers to share experiences and build community. Register today for Toddler Playtime! This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston.
In 1963, Esther gave birth to Roland, the youngest sibling of a large family. Roland was born with a clubfoot that prevented him from standing. Against everyone's advice, she promised her son that he would be able to walk just like everyone else and have a wonderful life. From that moment on, Esther devoted herself fully to ensuring this promise came true. Spanning decades of hardships and miracles, this film is the story of an incredible destiny and the greatest love of all: a mother's love for her child. Based on Roland Perez’s book “Ma Mère, Dieu Et Sylvie Vartan” Published in France by Les Escales
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for youth of all ages. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Why you should attend: Fun for All Ages: Enjoy stories, songs, and hands-on activities that engage the whole family. Build a Love for Reading: Nurture your child’s literacy skills while bonding over books. Interactive and Educational: Encourage learning through play, music, and creative storytelling. Bring your family to the library for a morning of fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston.
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston.
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Why you should attend: Fun for All Ages: Enjoy stories, songs, and hands-on activities that engage the whole family. Build a Love for Reading: Nurture your child’s literacy skills while bonding over books. Interactive and Educational: Encourage learning through play, music, and creative storytelling. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston.
Join us for a unique and convivial evening celebrating Haitian culture with internationally renowned Haitian actor and author Jimmy Jean-Louis. About the actor: Jimmy Jean-Louis is an internationally recognized Haitian actor, producer, and former fashion model. Born in Haiti and trained in theater and dance in Paris, he has built a diverse career spanning film and television in Europe, Africa, and the United States. He is widely known for his roles in major international productions such as Heroes, Desperate Housewives, Tears of the Sun (alongside Bruce Willis), and The Bourne Identity. Through his work, he has been a strong advocate for greater representation of Francophone, African, and Caribbean stories on screen. Beyond acting, Jimmy Jean-Louis is deeply committed to humanitarian and cultural initiatives, particularly in support of Haiti. He regularly uses his platform to promote cultural dialogue, education, and social engagement through cinema and the arts. This special event will feature: 📚 Book sale and signing with Jimmy Jean-Louis 🎤 Conference / talk, where he will share insights on his career, identity, and cultural engagement 🥃 Haitian rum tasting (Barbancourt) 🍽️ Tasting of traditional Haitian dishes (from the restaurant Perle des Antilles) Through conversation, flavors, and shared stories, this evening offers a rich and immersive experience of Haiti’s cultural heritage in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This event is a wonderful opportunity to meet the artist, discover Haitian culture, and enjoy meaningful exchanges around literature, identity, and tradition. Member price: $15
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Why you should attend: Fun for All Ages: Enjoy stories, songs, and hands-on activities that engage the whole family. Build a Love for Reading: Nurture your child’s literacy skills while bonding over books. Interactive and Educational: Encourage learning through play, music, and creative storytelling. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston.
Bold Voices, Brilliant Journeys: French Women Writers Claudine Giachetti, Ph.D. Tuesdays, 4 weeks, March 24 - April 14 | 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Explore the rebellious and powerful writings of French women! Across four classes, we will examine how these women challenged social norms, redefined literary traditions, and claimed intellectual authority. From medieval poets and 17th century salonnières to revolutionary feminists and world travelers, investigate how their voices defied literary conventions and remain strikingly relevant today! Links to readings will be provided prior to each class. March 24 | A Castle of One’s Own: Marie de France, Christine de Pizan, and Marguerite de Navarre use tales of love, power, and politics to quietly defy expectations and redefine “feminine” literary genres. March 31 | Were the Précieuses Ridiculous?: Through the letters of Madame de Sévigné and the scandal-making novel The Princess of Cleves by Madame de Lafayette, we revisit the sharp wit and influence of 17th-century salon culture. April 07 | Vive la Révolution!: From Olympe de Gouges to 19th-century memoirists and children’s author the Comtesse de Ségur, we examine women who wrote boldly in the face of revolution, repression, and change. April 14 | Journey to the New World: Travel narratives by French women—from revolutionary exiles to Simone de Beauvoir—offer vivid accounts of courage, curiosity, and independence across the Americas. $150 | In person and simulcast
As the FIFA World Cup is coming to Houston, the United States and America, the geopolitics of sport become an essential question in today's globalized performance based society. "Africa won the world cup twice!". France as a Soccer Empire will be the starting point to a discussion led by Dr. Caroline Fache who offers an ambitious course taught at Rice University, and will then address the societal and racial dynamics at play in soccer in particular and sport in general. Rice and Texas Southern are coming together to engage students and the community in a boarder reflection in which the world is at play.
Alliance Française Wine School – Discovering the Côtes du Rhône. The Alliance Française of Houston cordially invites you to continue your wine education journey with our next Wine School class, dedicated to the Côtes du Rhône We are delighted to present our next wine class—an immersive evening exploring one of France’s most diverse and dynamic wine regions. Certified Sommelier James Barlow will guide guests through an expertly curated tasting experience highlighting the freshness, versatility, and regional expression that define Loire Valley wines. With over 20 years at Spec’s Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods, James is a Certified Wine Educator, Certified Specialist of Spirits, and one of only 200 Bourgogne Wines Ambassadors worldwide.
Come enjoy a casual social Konpa night while learning some new moves in the process. Konpa dance is the cornerstone of Haitian cultural identity. The dance blends African, Latin and European influences, reflecting Haiti's cultural heritage resulting from their colonial past. As konpa evolved in the 1960s and 1970s, it began to influence other Caribbean genres like Dominican merengue and zouk in the French Antilles, contributing to its international reach. During the class you will learn the connection, basics, history and musicality of Kompa Music in Francophone Culture. You will leave the class confident and ready to hit the dance floor. Don't miss out, spots are limited.
On the occasion of Francophonie Day, our students from La Maternelle (ages 2 to 6) will explore the French-speaking world! Each class will present a country where French is spoken. With the help of their teacher, the children will prepare a short presentation including words from the language, and cultural or artistic elements. This special moment will allow the children to travel from country to country while celebrating the diversity, culture, and richness of the French language.
As part of Francophonie Week, La Crème de la Crème (UH French Club) invites the community to a Francophonie Film Screening celebrating the diversity of the French-speaking world. Through cinema, this event highlights the cultural richness and global presence of Francophone communities. This screening is free and open to students, faculty, and the broader Houston community.
Projection of a French movie for children.
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Why you should attend: Fun for All Ages: Enjoy stories, songs, and hands-on activities that engage the whole family. Build a Love for Reading: Nurture your child’s literacy skills while bonding over books. Interactive and Educational: Encourage learning through play, music, and creative storytelling. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston.
DÉAMBULATIONS FRANCOPHONES Francophone Wanderings A Photography Exhibit by Fikry Botros Opening Reception 📅 March 28 | 6:00–9:00 PM 📍 Alliance Française de Houston Join us for an intimate soirée celebrating the opening of Francophone Wanderings, a photography exhibition by Houston-based photographer Fikry Botros. This evocative collection features candid, unguarded moments captured across various Francophone countries. Rather than focusing on landmarks or spectacle, the exhibition highlights everyday life — in streets, cafés, markets, and public spaces where language, culture, and routine naturally intersect. Through an unobtrusive and empathetic lens, Fikry allows gestures, expressions, and fleeting interactions to unfold organically. His work feels intimate without being intrusive, documentary yet deeply human — revealing both the shared rhythms of daily life across the Francophone world and the subtle distinctions shaped by history and local customs. Join us for an evening of art, conversation, and community as we celebrate the richness and diversity of Francophone cultures. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artist, explore the exhibition, and enjoy a warm and convivial atmosphere at the Alliance Française de Houston. We look forward to welcoming you for this special opening night.
As part of the French Culture Festival, three films will be shown, each suited to a different age group. This event is free and open to all.
The Alliance Francaise d'El Paso will be showing the movie "A La Belle Etoile" free of charge to the El Paso public at the Valle Verde Campus of El Paso Community College. This event is offered in partnership with El Paso Community College, and the American Association of Teachers of French. In the past, students of the French language from EPCC, the Alliance Francaise, and the public schools have attended the events. During that time, student clubs sell refreshments to support their club activities.
On March 28, Wimbish World Language Academy and the Alliance Française de Dallas are hosting Joie de Vivre, a celebration of French culture. As a school recognized with the Label FrancÉducation, we are transforming our campus into a vibrant French hub and invite our community to help us bring this vision to life. Our attendees will experience a full immersion into French culture, featuring: The French Market & Bistro: Authentic flavors and unique finds. Le Cinéma: Screenings of French films. Traditional Games & Crafts: From matches of pétanque to hands-on art. The Main Stage: Live performances from musicians and artists. By joining us, you’ll be supporting language immersion education and strengthening the ties of the French-speaking community in North Texas.
Notre Dame Cathedral: Past and Present Lynda Kelly, Ph.D. Sunday, March 29 | 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Victor Hugo called her “the queen of our cathedrals.” On April 15, 2019 the world watched in horror the collapse of the spire of Notre-Dame, devoured by flames that engulfed the entire roof. In this lecture we will tell the story of Notre-Dame from the inception of construction in the 12th century to the re-opening in December 2024. For the first time in its 860-year history, the cathedral has been completely restored. Limestone walls darkened by the accumulation of grime over the centuries have recovered their original ochre color. Murals that were barely visible before the restoration pop with vivid color. The cleaned stained-glass sparkles. Photographs taken by architect Frank Kelly will illustrate this transformation of the interior. $35 | In person and simulcast
Enjoy a special time with your baby at our Storytime & Songs for Little Ones! This interactive session includes stories, rhymes, movement, and songs that will capture your baby's attention and encourage important developmental skills. Ideal for babies ages 0-18 months, especially pre-walkers or crawlers, and their caregivers. Why attend? Skill building: Boost your baby's social, motor, and early literacy skills through fun, interactive activities. Bonding time: Share precious moments with your baby in a supportive environment. Community: Connect with other caregivers and babies in your area. Join us for a joyful time of stories and songs with your baby! Reserve your spot today! This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston.
Join the Texas State University French Club (Le Cercle Français) for a lively French Jazz & Trivia Night, open to the public! Enjoy a curated playlist of French and Francophone jazz while testing your knowledge with fun trivia rounds on music, language, culture, and Francophone communities around the world. Come with friends or join a team on the spot—no French required, just curiosity and good vibes. This is a casual, welcoming way to connect with French-speaking cultures and the local Francophone community in San Marcos. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine Houston. www.frenchculturesfestival.com
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Why you should attend: Fun for All Ages: Enjoy stories, songs, and hands-on activities that engage the whole family. Build a Love for Reading: Nurture your child’s literacy skills while bonding over books. Interactive and Educational: Encourage learning through play, music, and creative storytelling. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Join us at the Houston Public Library for Preschool Storytime, where children ages 3-5 can enjoy fun stories, songs, and activities that introduce important school readiness concepts like ABCs, 123s, colors, and shapes. This interactive storytime is perfect for children and their caregivers to explore together and build early literacy skills in a playful and engaging way. Why you should attend: Boost your child’s school readiness with activities that teach essential skills. Enjoy a fun and interactive storytime that encourages learning through play. Connect with other caregivers and children in a supportive, educational environment. Help your little one get a head start! Join us for Preschool Storytime and make learning fun with HPL! This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Global Fluency for French-Speaking Environments This interactive workshop introduces participants to the cultural communication styles that shape everyday and professional interactions in French-speaking environments. Designed for students, professionals, and community members, the session explores how culture influences communication in France and across the broader Francophone world. Led by Executive Communication & Global Fluency Strategist Rodney Stinson, the workshop highlights key differences between French and American communication norms. Participants will learn how French speakers express politeness, manage formality, interpret tone, and navigate social hierarchy. The session also addresses common cross-cultural misunderstandings and offers practical strategies for avoiding them. Through examples, demonstrations, and light audience participation, attendees will gain tools to: 1) Communicate respectfully and confidently in French-speaking contexts 2) Understand verbal and nonverbal cues that may differ from American expectations 3) Adapt tone and register based on situation and relationship 4) Apply foundational etiquette that promotes positive intercultural exchanges The workshop also acknowledges the diversity within the Francophone world by touching on communication practices in regions such as Québec, West Africa, and the Caribbean. Whether preparing for travel, study, work, or cultural engagement, participants will leave with practical insights to help them interact more comfortably and effectively with French-speaking communities. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine Houston.
Join us at the Houston Public Library for Preschool Storytime, where children ages 3-5 can enjoy fun stories, songs, and activities that introduce important school readiness concepts like ABCs, 123s, colors, and shapes. This interactive storytime is perfect for children and their caregivers to explore together and build early literacy skills in a playful and engaging way. Why you should attend: Boost your child’s school readiness with activities that teach essential skills. Enjoy a fun and interactive storytime that encourages learning through play. Connect with other caregivers and children in a supportive, educational environment. Help your little one get a head start! Join us for Preschool Storytime and make learning fun with HPL! This event is part of the French Culture Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Join us at the Houston Public Library for Preschool Storytime, where children ages 3-5 can enjoy fun stories, songs, and activities that introduce important school readiness concepts like ABCs, 123s, colors, and shapes. This interactive storytime is perfect for children and their caregivers to explore together and build early literacy skills in a playful and engaging way. Help your little one get a head start! Join us for Preschool Storytime and make learning fun with HPL! This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Join us for Toddler Storytime at the Houston Public Library! This engaging event is designed for children ages 18-36 months and their caregivers. Enjoy a mix of stories, songs, and interactive activities that will boost your toddler's social, motor, and literacy skills while having fun together. Why you should attend: Boost skills: Participate in activities that support your toddler’s social, motor, and literacy development. Interactive fun: Enjoy engaging stories and songs that capture your child's attention and encourage learning. Connect with others: Meet other caregivers and toddlers in a welcoming and supportive environment. Don’t miss out on the fun and learning! Join us for Toddler Storytime and support your child’s growth while enjoying quality time at the library. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Set in a small-town hair salon, Coiffure pour dames (Steel Magnolias) centers on six women who gather regularly to share stories, laughter, and moments of vulnerability. Within this intimate space, the salon becomes more than a place of beauty—it is a refuge where friendship, mutual support, and emotional honesty flourish. The play explores the strength found in female solidarity and the importance of simply being present for one another through life’s joys and hardships. Written in 1987 by American playwright and screenwriter Robert Harling, the work is deeply personal, inspired by his own family history. Through lively, humorous, and often poignant conversations, Harling creates a sensitive portrait of resilience in the face of adversity. In 1990, the play was adapted for the French stage by Michèle Laroque and Claire Nadeau. This version remains faithful to the spirit of the original while relocating the action to the South West of France.
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Why you should attend: Fun for All Ages: Enjoy stories, songs, and hands-on activities that engage the whole family. Build a Love for Reading: Nurture your child’s literacy skills while bonding over books. Interactive and Educational: Encourage learning through play, music, and creative storytelling. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Join us for Family Storytime, where we bring books to life through stories, songs, and activities that everyone in the family will enjoy! This interactive event encourages a love of reading and is perfect for families. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll love this cross-generational literacy experience designed to make reading fun for everyone. Why you should attend: Fun for All Ages: Enjoy stories, songs, and hands-on activities that engage the whole family. Build a Love for Reading: Nurture your child’s literacy skills while bonding over books. Interactive and Educational: Encourage learning through play, music, and creative storytelling. Bring your family to the library for fun and literacy! Register now to save your spot. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Join us this April for the International School of San Antonio's FRANCOFUN FESTIVAL 2026. Celebrate the richness of the Francophone world by discovering traditions from different French-speaking countries, tasting food, listening to music, and taking part in family-friendly activities . Food and drink tickets sold at the entrance. RSVP Required.
Rendez-vous le Samedi 11 avril à la French Legation pour un cours de yoga gratuit en français et en plein air avec notre coach Corine ! 📅 Date : Samedi 11 avril 🕙 Heure : 10h - 11h30 📍 Lieu : French Legation, Austin 🌿 Activité gratuite en plein air Venez profiter de la beauté de ce cadre historique pour vous relaxer, rencontrer d’autres membres et passer un bon moment ensemble. 💡 L’activité est gratuite et sur inscription - Inscrivez-vous avant le 8 avril à l’adresse suivante : activites.aaccueil@gmail.com Encore merci à Corine de nous proposer ce cours !
The Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie Lynda Kelly, Ph.D. Sunday, April 12 | 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM The Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie are all that remains of the original royal palace located on the Île de la Cité. In the mid-14th century King Charles V moved the royal residence to the Louvre, leaving the royal administration, including the judiciary, on the island. The nation’s highest court of civil and criminal appeal is still located there. The Sainte Chapelle was built by King Louis IX (Saint Louis) to house relics of the Passion of Christ. The most famous of these was the Crown of Thorns, which King Louis IX purchased from the emperor of Constantinople in 1239 for a sum that greatly exceeded the cost of building the chapel. After the Revolution, the Crown was kept in the treasury of Notre-Dame. It was miraculously saved during the fire. This richly illustrated lecture will cover the architecture, interior decoration, and stained-glass windows of the Sainte-Chapelle, followed by the fascinating history and architecture of the Conciergerie. $35 | In person and simulcast
Join us for Toddler Storytime at the Houston Public Library! This engaging event is designed for children ages 18-36 months and their caregivers. Enjoy a mix of stories, songs, and interactive activities that will boost your toddler's social, motor, and literacy skills while having fun together. Don’t miss out on the fun and learning! Join us for Toddler Storytime and support your child’s growth while enjoying quality time at the library. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Looking for a way to connect with your family without screens? We are hosting Family Night Unplugged–an evening packed with stories, games, toys, and crafts that everyone will love. It’s the perfect chance to spend quality time together, explore new activities, and enjoy face-to-face fun in a welcoming space. Why you should attend: Screen-free entertainment: Enjoy interactive stories, games, and hands-on crafts. Create lasting memories: Spend meaningful time with your family in a fun and relaxed setting. All ages welcome: Activities designed for both kids and adults to enjoy together. Don’t let this opportunity for family bonding pass you by! Register today–spots are limited. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine in Houston: http://www.frenchculturesfestival.com/
Experience the French-speaking world beyond France at Texas State University’s annual French Outside of France celebration! This public event features brief cultural “snapshots” of Francophone countries and communities—through guest speakers, mini-presentations, music, visuals, and shared stories—highlighting the diversity of contemporary French-speaking cultures across Africa, the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and beyond. Enjoy Francophone-inspired refreshments while learning about language, traditions, and cultural connections in a friendly, welcoming setting. Whether you speak French or are simply curious, come celebrate global Francophone cultures with students, educators, and community members. This event is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine Houston. www.frenchculturesfestival.com
Mark White Elementary, in partnership with Villa Albertine, is proud to host a public Francophone Movie Night celebrating the richness and diversity of the French-speaking world. This community-centered cultural event invites families, students, and members of the greater Houston area to experience the power of storytelling through Francophone cinema. The evening will feature a carefully selected, age-appropriate French-language film with English subtitles, ensuring accessibility for both French speakers and those discovering the language for the first time. Designed to be more than a film screening, the event offers an opportunity for cultural immersion and shared learning, highlighting the global reach of the French language and the vibrancy of Francophone cultures. All are welcome to join this evening of cinema, culture, and community.
Petit Pays (Small Country: An African Childhood) Thursday, April 16 · 7:00 PM Fiction • Drama • Literary Adaptation (2020 · 1h53) Film in French with English subtitles Directed by Éric Barbier With Jean-Paul Rouve Admission: Free for members | $10 for non-members Set in the heart of Africa in the early 1990s, Petit Pays tells the deeply moving story of Gabriel, a carefree ten-year-old boy growing up in Burundi. Born to a French expatriate father and a Rwandan mother, Gabriel lives between cultures, languages, and identities — a reflection of the rich yet complex fabric of the Francophone world. Adapted from Gaël Faye’s acclaimed 2016 novel, the film captures the fragile beauty of childhood against the backdrop of rising political tensions that would soon lead to the Rwandan genocide and regional civil war. Through Gabriel’s eyes, we witness the loss of innocence as ethnic divisions and violence begin to fracture both his country and his family. A France–Belgium co-production, Petit Pays was nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay at the 2021 César Awards and continues to resonate as a powerful exploration of memory, exile, and belonging within the global Francophone community.
In one of those wonderful coincidences of history, lumière, the French word for “light,” was also the last name of brothers Auguste and Louis, whose brilliant invention, the cinematograph, helped to inaugurate the most beloved art form of the last 130 years. Institute Lumière director Thierry Frémaux uses 'Lumière, Le Cinema!' to guide the viewer through over a hundred shorts—some famous, some forgotten, some never before seen—directed by Lumière and company. In the process, Frémaux illuminates how the brothers employed the camera as a creative instrument as they (and their operators) mastered framing, staging, and subject selection for quotidian and exotic microdocumentaries as well as the first ever fictional motion pictures. The result is not only a glorious re(telling) of the genesis of cinema but a profound meditation on the beautiful world captured—and the mysterious world imagined—by the Lumières.
This essential new documentary celebrates the pioneering achievements of the French entrepreneurs August and Louis Lumière in the late 19th century. Filmmaker and cinephile Thierry Frémaux (director of the Cannes Film Festival and co-founder of the Institut Lumière) narrates excerpts from new restorations of more than 100 comedies, dramas, and travelogues, set to an evocative score of period music by Gabriel Fauré, a contemporary of the Lumières. As a lesson in film history, it illuminates how the brothers employed the camera as a creative instrument as they (and their operators) mastered framing, staging, and subject selection for the first motion pictures, and how they introduced the art of moving pictures to the world.
Join us to enhance your cultural understanding and the use of AI tools in language learning in this engaging workshop designed for educators and students of all levels. The sessions will be led by experienced French educators. Teachers will earn PD credits. Light breakfast will be provided.
Join us this spring at the French Cultures Festival at Rice University for an inspiring celebration of language, creativity, and student artistry. This special event features a student-created and student-directed play in French, performed by French learners from Rice University. Developed collaboratively from concept to staging, the production showcases the students’ imagination, linguistic growth, and creative courage. Through original scenes, dynamic storytelling, and expressive performance, these emerging artists bring the French language to life on stage in a way that is vibrant, thoughtful, and uniquely their own. Following the performance, audience members are invited to participate in an interactive creativity workshop. Whether you are a language enthusiast, an arts supporter, or simply curious, the workshop is designed to bring together the French-speaking community and support learners of French at Rice University. Snacks and drinks will be provided, creating a relaxed and convivial atmosphere where guests can meet with performers, connect with fellow attendees, and celebrate the richness of French language and cultures. Come experience the power of student-driven theatre, the joy of creative collaboration, and the vibrant energy of French in action. We look forward to welcoming you!
Austin International School is thrilled to host a special evening event with Alex and Tom, the co-founders of AT Frenchies, who have captivated over 5 million followers worldwide with their bilingual content. This event welcomes members of the French community in Austin as well as anyone eager to discover or learn French in a fun, engaging way. Alex and Tom will lead an interactive show and presentation designed to make learning French lively, entertaining, and accessible. Through games, challenges, and storytelling in both French and English, attendees will experience firsthand how language can be a bridge between cultures while having fun. Their unique approach blends education, creativity, and humor, making it enjoyable for beginners, language enthusiasts, and fluent speakers alike. Beyond learning, the evening offers a rare chance to engage with two globally recognized digital creators who have turned bilingualism and cross-cultural storytelling into a worldwide phenomenon. Attendees will gain insights into their creative process, see behind-the-scenes moments from their content, and learn how language skills can open doors to international opportunities and collaborations. The event also fosters connection among educators, families, entrepreneurs, and language lovers, creating a vibrant space for networking and cultural exchange. Guests will celebrate the vitality of French language and culture in Central Texas, while experiencing the energy and global perspective that Alex and Tom bring to their work. Whether you are curious about French, love interactive learning, or want to connect with a global-minded community, this evening promises inspiration, laughter, and cultural discovery. Come join us for a lively, bilingual experience where learning meets entertainment, and French becomes a bridge for creativity, connection, and fun.
French Cultures Festival ™
