Fête de la Saint-Jean-Baptiste 

About

French-Canadian and French fur traders, the dependable and hard-working men of the Fur Trade who moved furs and goods across North America, set little time aside for themselves. Although, there were two exceptions! A rendezvous was a time of great celebration, but even the most boisterous rendezvous would not come close to the pomp and celebration of Fête de la Saint-Jean-Baptiste, which translates to Saint Jean the Baptist Day in English.

Traditionally celebrated on June 24th, it would include large bonfires, food, alcohol, trade, dancing, and singing. Today, Fête de la Saint Jean Baptiste is still celebrated in Quebec and is called La Fete Nationale du Quebec, or the National Day of Quebec in English. Even though the time of the Voyageur is long past, there are still French-Canadians present in Minnesota and in the United States.

Join us for the Fête de la Saint-Jean-Baptiste at the Sibley Historic Site on Sunday, June 23rd from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. This event was created in partnership with the Quebec Office in Chicago, Alliance Francaise MSP, and the French American Heritage Foundation, as they work to bring to life Fête de la Saint-Jean-Baptiste by taking elements of the past and present traditions to create a unique, new celebration that will honor French-Canadians, Canadians, and French culture.

While registration is not required, it will help assist in our planning for this event, and you can let us know you're coming in advance at https://dakotahistory.org/events/1012-jun-23-fete-de-la-saint-jean-baptiste-at-sibley. If you are a member, please include in the "Notes" which organization you are a member of, to assist with tracking the event's outreach.