The House of France organizes events for its members in addition to public events. They are spread throughout the year and most are related to traditional celebrations in France. This not an exhaustive list as new opportunities arise every year.
Events
January
King’s day (Epiphanie) celebrates the date of the visit of the three Wise Men who arrived from the East, bearing gifts for Jesus. On this day, French people celebrate the Epiphany by eating the “galette des rois” (King’s cake”). It has a little figurine hidden in the cake. The one who gets it is the king.
February
Crêpe day (La Chandeleur)
Crêpe day (La Chandeleur) is the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord (or Purification of Our Lady) celebrated 40 days after Christmas. It once marked the end of the Christmas season. Candles (chandelles) were left burning in churches to keep winter weather away.
On the fun side, it is traditional to hold a coin in your writing hand and a crêpe pan in the other, and flip the crêpe into the air. If you manage to catch the crêpe in the pan, your family will be prosperous for the rest of the year. This is our Groundhog Day!!
March/April
Cheese Tasting: Join us for a taste a variety of cheeses representing the many different regions of France!
May
Ethnic Food Fair
Ethnic Food Fair Most cottages serve ethnic food and free entertainment is presented to the public. The house of France sells French food (quiche, pastries). Members are encouraged to come and help. The mood is always festive.
Les Francofolies Pique Nique in Kate Session Park with various French organizations. Play volleyball, petanque or just spend time meeting new people.
June
Fête de la Musique (Music Fest)
Fête de la Musique (Music Fest) The House of France, in coordination with other French organizations, invites you for an evening of free music.
Join us to hear a variety of local artists who will perform that night, including Ukulele, Hindie-rock band, rock guitar and classical guitar.
Enjoy the festive atmosphere. This event is open to the public and members and is free. Bring some friends!
July
Lawn Program
Lawn Program The House of France sells French food and presents an hour of (free) French entertainment. We are always have a need for our members to participate and help.
House of Pacific Relations
2191 Pan American Rd W, San Diego, CA 92101
Sunday, July 14, 2024
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. PST
August
September
House of France Summer Picnic
Sunday, September TBA 2024
12:00pm to 2:00pm
The cottage will provide baguettes, merguez sausages (and a vegetarian alternative), drinks, coffee, and dessert. Bring a dish to share, chairs, and bring your favorite outdoor games: pétanque, croquet, a frisbee, etc.
October
Game Night at the House of France
Saturday, October TBA 2024
5:00pm to 7:00pm
Register (coming soon!)
November
Elections of the new board.
Thanksgiving dinner. Turkey with a French flair.
December
International Christmas Festival
International Christmas Festival at Balboa Park’s December Nights in December. Here all the houses come together to share their culture in an event where cottages are opened, ethnic foods are available and an impressive assortment of dance & music throughout. Last year, we offered bûches de Noël, mille feuilles (Napoléons) and, of course, our now famous crêpes.
We would like to thank all of the volunteers who showed up to set up the tents, sell, clean up, etc. for this event. You can come and help for two hours, four hours, ten hours or the whole event. You will be tired but excited and you will be hooked; you will come back year after year to help. We want to thank our members for coming to the December Nights and making it a great success!
We will see you at the next International Christmas Festival at December Nights on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7. 2024!
Santa Claus Every year, le pere Noel (Santa Claus), comes a little bit early to meet our members and give our younger members (kids under 12) a present. After that, we share a Buche de Noel. It is the opportunity to get together before celebrating Christmas with families.
Playgroup We used to have a playgroup for kids age 0 to 5. This was the opportunity for kids and parents to speak, play, read, do some craft and have a snack in French. We would be happy to have this activity started again. If you are interested or have other ideas of activities, contact us.