Victoria Express

Eh oui, Friday March 5, 2010, will begin the 13th Annual Victoria French Fest, which runs through Sunday, March 7. This is a great excuse to travel to Victoria BC. The event will celebrate music, food and art from francophone countries around the globe. Here is your chance to feast on brie and baguettes, enjoy a panoply of food kiosks, and savor magnificent culinary creations by Chef Guy Le Monnier. It is always about the food whenever the French are involved.

Expect to taste Moroccan couscous, chicken Yassa from Senegal, and "les cornouillers", or sugar pies, from Quebec. From Haiti we'll enjoy delectable "accras de morue", or savory fish fritters. France brings us chocolate profiteroles, and the Antilles will supply plates laden with exotic fruits. Each kiosk will also have vegetarian options on hand.

Musicians will include The Georgia Basin Beat Collective, African percussionist Jordan Hanson of Hand Drum Rhythm, Christian Tatonetti and the trio Fetacompli. The energetic are welcome to participate in African dance and break dancing workshops with Yamoussa and Karim Bangoura from the circus Kalabantes.

There will be much to do. The "Salon des artisans" at the Da Vinci Centre on Saturday and Sunday afternoons will showcase an eclectic collection of sculpture, tiles, textiles and luxurious skin care products. There will be French films and popcorn, for adults and children alike. Indeed, children are encouraged to attend the festival, and there will be many games and events just for them.

Perhaps the highlight of the weekend will take place Sunday March 7 at 7 pm at the McPherson Theatre, when the West African Circus troupe KALABANTE will present KO RYASS.

The Victoria French Fest has two main venues: the Da Vinci Centre at 195 Bay Street and Centennial Square. Throughout the weekend, a free shuttle service will run between the two sites.

Victoria Express will take care of your Victoria travel, from transportation to lodging. Call 360-452-8088 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.

Please note that travel between the United States and Canada requires a passport or enhanced driver's license. See our ID Requirements for more details.