LAKELAND - On Saturday, a tradition steeped in Francophone heritage came to life in Bonnyville at the ACFA (French Canadian Association of Alberta) Bonnyville-Cold Lake's Cabane à Sucre event.
The annual celebration not only honours the tradition of maple syrup production, but also serves as a vibrant gathering that embraces cultural unity and community spirit. From the sweet aromas of maple being poured on snow, to the lively music echoing through the air, the event embodies the essence of French-Canadian culture.
Christine St. Laurent, regional manager for ACFA Bonnyville-Cold Lake, highlighted the cultural significance of the event, explaining, “The Cabane à Sucre... is a Francophone tradition because in Eastern Canada, in Quebec... they make maple syrup. So that's that aspect of the tradition, and then they turn the maple syrup into taffy on the snow and maple butter.”
St. Laurent emphasized the communal nature of the event, stating, “Usually families, friends would all work together to do this, because it's very labour-intensive.”
She added, “It's a gathering experience of people getting together. Sometimes they haven't seen each other for a while because of winter, so then this always happens in the springtime... and with the cultural aspect with the music, we do it so that we can share our traditions, our culture, with anybody else.”
She also noted the organization is busy planning other upcoming events, such as the Saint Jean Baptiste celebration this summer which will be held in Cold Lake, emphasizing the organization's coverage of the Bonnyville and Cold Lake regions.
Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr echoed the importance of preserving Francophone heritage, citing recent announcements of new Francophone schools in Lac La Biche and Fort McMurray.
“It's important that we recognize that the French Francophones throughout Canada built this country,” said Cyr.
He further expressed his desire to see Francophones actively contributing to the continuation of the region’s history and heritage, stating, “I want to see Francophones... ensuring that our history, our heritage, continues to move forward.”
He also highlighted the significance of Francophone Month, encouraging everyone to celebrate the French culture within Alberta throughout March. Cyr emphasized the need to reflect on the region’s history, acknowledging its vibrancy.
City of Cold Lake Coun. Bob Mattice, acting as deputy mayor of Cold Lake, expressed his appreciation for cultural diversity, stating, “I think speaking any language in Canada is a gift, whether it French, Dene, Cree.” He thanked the organizers for the invitation to the event on Saturday.
