bonhommeA celebration of Francophone culture kicks off this weekend with the 53rd annual Carnaval des Compagnons.

Program Coordinator Lou Gagné says language and culture are something to celebrate and they want to show students that French language and culture can be useful outside the walls of the classroom.

Gagné says that’s why they encourage all students to get involved either through song and dance during the opening ceremonies, or taking part in the other events throughout the week.

The opening ceremonies start on Sunday at 1pm at Memorial Gardens.

There are events all day Tuesday and shows for schools on Wednesday at the Capitol Centre.

Gagné says it all wraps up the following Saturday with the unveiling of Bonhomme at West Ferris Arena.