The Heights in Newtown will come alive with the sights, sounds and tastes of France this weekend when Le Festival Français returns.
The celebration of all things French will serve up a buffet of music, food, wine, language and culture, with market stalls and kids entertainment dotted throughout the gardens of the sprawling heritage homestead.
The event, running all day on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October, includes musical entertainment from local French gypsy jazz band Hot Club Swing, chanteuse extraordinaire Amie Brûlée and roving accordionist Lucy Riddett.
The fun doesn’t finish at sundown, with a special ticketed soirée on Saturday evening featuring Melbourne-based ensemble Langue de Chat performing their show French Musette and Chansons.
With puppeteers, face painting, popular performer Jean Darme, a Champagne bar, picnic area, a dedicated Kids Zone and an array of workshops and master classes, Le Festival Français offers something for people of all ages.
Now in its fourth year, the event is presented by Alliance Français in partnership with the National Trust of Victoria.
National Trust assets advisor and Geelong regional manager Claudette Brennan said the team of organisers was excited to deliver the biggest and best edition of the festival so far.
“We now have almost 60 stalls and attractions in the grounds of The Heights, which is just incredible,” she said.
“In the first year, we didn’t know how we’d go. We had nearly 3000 people over that weekend; we’re now looking at about 5000 people.
“I just love the vibe, the excitement on people’s faces and seeing everyone really enjoying the festival.”
Visit lefestivalfrancais.com.au for tickets and more information.
