FestivÉbène Festival 2025, an 18th edition under the banner of “Eternal Africa”

The 18th edition of the FestivÉbène festival marked a turning point in the celebration of the diversity and the richness of African cultures. Built around the theme “Eternal Africa: Past, Present, Future”, the event offered a one-of-a-kind artistic and cultural journey, where tradition and modern life came together with elegance. A prestigious launch, with an exhibition curated by Mélina Seymour, took visitors on a visual and sensory journey through the history, the growth and the future of the African continent. With her sharp artistic eye and her commitment to preserving Afro-descendant heritage, she created an unforgettable experience that brought together painting, sculpture and contemporary installations. The evening was carried by the warm and funny hosting of Justine Gogoua, whose energy and generosity captivated the audience and made the opening even more memorable.

The official launch on February 8, 2025 took place in the presence of many influential figures, a sign of the growing importance and recognition of the FestivÉbène festival. Among the guests of honour and the dignitaries:

• Prof. Nicholas Hauck, MLL
• Prof. Linda Carreiro, MIWSFPA
• Prof. Brad Clarke, Associate Vice-President, Brock University
• Ms. Colleen Smith, Director of the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre
• MP Vance Badawey
• Mr. Mat Siscoe, Mayor of St. Catharines
• Mr. Adam Moote, Councillor to the Deputy Mayor of Welland
• Ms. Melinda Chartrand, representing the Centre communautaire Le Griffon and the Conseil scolaire MonAvenir
• Mr. Eric Keunne, representing the Conseil scolaire Viamonde

The festival was also honoured by a musical performance from artist Amadou Kiénou, who brought an immersive and vibrant atmosphere to the opening.

The FestivÉbène festival could not exist without the essential support of our many partners. We want to express our deep gratitude to:

• Funders

Canadian Heritage

Ontario Arts Council

• Sponsors

The City of St. Catharines

Centre communautaire Le Griffon

Conseil scolaire Viamonde

Conseil scolaire MonAvenir

• Community partners

We also thank our community partners, including:

The City of Welland

FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre

ABC communautaire

Via Casa

And let us not forget Pot pourri Show and the Maison de la culture francophone du Niagara, who took part in this cultural adventure.

Do not miss the closing evening on February 14 at 6 p.m.!

Join us on February 14 at 6 p.m. for a special closing evening to celebrate the end of this beautiful exhibition. It is a unique chance to look back on the highlights of the festival and to share one last artistic experience.

Join us as well for the show on February 15!

The FestivÉbène 2025 festival continues with a brand new evening show on February 15, bringing together artists such as Klasik-O and Cloclo Clodel. This event will close an exceptional edition in which African art and culture were celebrated like never before.

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• Thank you to everyone who helps the FestivÉbène festival shine!