Fredericton local forum 2026

DETAILS OF THE EVENT

The Fredericton Forum is almost here!
Forget the usual routine! On April 22 and 23, 2026, we’re taking over St. Thomas University to change the way you experience French.
The Fredericton Local Forum is the place to be! Where more than 300 students from across the region come together for a total, high-energy immersion experience.
Here’s what’s waiting for you: dynamic workshops designed to spark your curiosity and get you talking with students from both linguistic communities; a chance to meet new people from different schools and make new friends. The perfect opportunity to explore Francophone and Acadian culture, sharpen your language skills, and live an experience you’ll never forget.
No matter your level, whether you’ve spoken French your whole life or you’re just looking for a cool new challenge, this forum is for you. It’s your time to speak up, connect, and above all, have an incredible time!
SCHEDULE
| TIME | ACTIVITY | LOCATION |
| 8:30 - 9:30 AM | Registration, kiosks, ice-breakers | Margaret Norrie McCain Hall |
| 9:30 AM | Opening ceremony | Margaret Norrie McCain Hall (amphitheatre) |
| 9:45 AM | Conference | Margaret Norrie McCain Hall (amphitheatre) |
| 10:10 - 11:00 AM | Workshop #1 | Various locations (in Margaret Norrie McCain Hall and Brian Mulroney Hall) |
| 11:10 AM | Workshop #2 | Various locations (in Margaret Norrie McCain Hall and Brian Mulroney Hall) |
| 11:55 AM | Lunch and kiosks | TBD |
| 12:30 PM | Cultural activity | Margaret Norrie McCain Hall (amphitheatre) |
| 1:30 PM | Plenary and closing | Margaret Norrie McCain Hall (amphitheatre) |
Special guests

Éric Dow
Originally from Baie Sainte-Marie in Nova Scotia and a proud New Brunswicker by adoption, Éric Dow is a passionate communicator who brings Acadian culture to life in both the artistic and academic spheres. A translator by training (Université de Moncton and Université d'Ottawa), he is currently completing a doctorate in linguistics.
His career is marked by a deep commitment to Atlantic communities, notably through his research on the connections between the Wabanaki and Acadian nations, as well as his distinguished tenure as Director of Communications for the Société de l’Acadie du Nouveau-Brunswick.
A multidisciplinary artist, Éric is well known as the lyricist and lead singer of the folk group Cy, and more recently with the band Beauxmont. A recipient of numerous awards (Éloizes, Music NB), he captivates his audience with his contagious enthusiasm and heartfelt delivery. He is a lover of language and politics who prioritizes human connection and cultural exchange above all else.

Guyaume Boulianne et Jacques Blinn
Jacques Blinn
Jacques Blinn is a seasoned multi-instrumentalist and a graduate in music from the Université de Moncton. Co-founder of the band Cy, he also collaborates with P’tit Belliveau and Peanut Butter Sunday, while serving as artistic director for various projects. This versatile musician and producer combines his Nova Scotian heritage with extensive stage experience gained both in the Maritimes and internationally alongside leading figures in Acadian music.
SPONSORS