For the Francophiles

This one's for you Lucie, OK Sarah too, and Katie and...I guess I know my share of people loving all things French. So up in Vergennes, Vt., is the French Heritage Days celebration July 11 and 12. The weekend is meant to be an educational, family fun day celebrating with Franco-American music, singing, dancing, fencing, traditional crafts demos and, of course, French food. And if you really want to participate in the event, pack your running shoes and join the Bastille Day Waiter's Race or trace your family roots with help from volunteers.

French Heritage Days begins on July 11 with a "Veillée" soiree at the Vergennes Opera House. Included in the $15 admission is a French Canadian supper featuring the musical group Club Carrefour from Quebec. The rest of the festivities kick off Saturday morning at 7 a.m. for a french toast breakfast [hardy-har-har, and no, I am not kidding. Maybe there will be french fries for lunch?]. French Heritage Day Buttons can be bought most any where during the day for $15-20, and allows you into the VOH performances. Showing your button off to area businesses earns you discounts, and access to many promotions.

[photo courtesy of The Custom Image, Ferrisburg, VT]