On Friday, November 8, 2024, Hubbard High School transformed into a vibrant celebration of French culture as it hosted its second annual French Fest, an event aligned with the American Association of Teachers of French’s National French Week.
From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the high school gym, students learned about French heritage through food, games and educational activities. This year’s theme, Le français (French—the global language), aimed to bring French culture to life outside the classroom.
Spearheaded by French 4 students, French Fest focused on five regions of France: Bretagne, Paris, Grand Est, the Loire Valley, and Provence. Each region will offer a unique cultural experience:
Bretagne: Known for its crêpes, this region featured French 4 students making crêpes for guests to sample.
Paris: Students could pose for selfies with the Eiffel Tower, admire artwork inspired by the Louvre, and take part in a caricature drawing challenge.
Grand Est: Attendees could visit a traditional Christmas market and taste pretzels with cheese, a regional favorite.
Loire Valley: Known for its castles, this station hosted an obstacle course where winners were awarded honorary “knighthoods.”
Provence: Visitors enjoyed fresh croissants, received lavender sachets, and learned about the humane tradition of bullfighting unique to the region.
Leading up to the event, French teacher Jenna McCarty, Hubbard High School organized several activities, including French-speaking country research, pétanque (French Bocce), and Pointillism art projects, introducing students to various facets of French culture.