Auburn Frenchfest 2023 marks the second edition of this French festival in South Australia’s Clare Valley and the program is bigger and better than the already exciting inaugural program of 2021.
The town of Auburn will be transformed into a French village for the weekend of 7-9 September 2023 with a range of free and paid events and something for all interests. You can expect three nights and two days of theatre, the arts, food and wine, pétanque, French cars and markets in Auburn village in the Clare Valley.
Food and wine events at Auburn Frenchfest 2023
1. Champagne masterclass: Learn about Champagne-making and taste exquisite Growers Champagne with a knowledgeable French winemaker.
2. Clare Valley vs France : A Taste of two worlds: Clare Valley meets France Wine Masterclass
3. Wine and Cheese: Collect a cheese hamper at your leisure and enjoy wine tastings while exploring Auburn.
4. VIP Events hosted by two of Auburn’s wineries.
5. FOFF and Sponsor Breakfast: A special invite-only breakfast event to thank supporters and sponsors.
Opening night events at Auburn Frenchfest 2023
1. “Ouverture Officielle” Official Opening: Join the grand opening event with speeches, entertainment, canapes, and a complimentary drink.
2. Opening Night Gala/World Premiere of Dream: Experience the captivating story of a girl’s dream to perform at the Moulin Rouge, complete with dinner and entertainment – there’s also a matinee performance of Dream: Another chance to experience the breathtaking story of a girl’s dream to perform at the Moulin Rouge.
Music performances at Auburn Frenchfest 2023
1. Louise Blackwell & the French Set: Experience French popular song tradition in a fun cabaret show – matinee and dinner shows. Read our review with Louise Blackwell here
2. Michaela Burger: Beloved character Chanteuse Rosé; The Diminutive Diva will entertain you with a world of French fantasies, naughty niceties and raucous rallying in a magical night of music, laughter and love!
3. Le Grande Ensemble/Le Carnaval des Animaux: Local musicians play French compositions from various periods, accompanied by student artworks.
4. Les Gitans Blanc: Be entertained by the music performance of LGB in the Marquee at the Rising Sun. Saturday and Sunday
5. La Chanson- Trio Montagne: Enjoy a musical journey through 100 years of French culture with 12 iconic songs.
6. Lisette: Enjoy French songs and jazz instrumentals performed by the renowned vocalist and dancer, Lisette.
7. Jen de Ness: Hear the entertaining songs of Jen de Ness and her jazz musicians. Saturday and Sunday
8. Mélange Latino: A joyous French/Latino band combining the smooth vocals of chanteuse Sunitra Martinelli with infectious Latin harmonies and beats. Playing at the Marquee in
the Park. Read our interview with Sunitra Martinelli here.
Theatre
1.World Premiere of Dream: Experience the captivating story of a girl’s dream to perform at the Moulin Rouge, complete with dinner on the opening night, or choose a matinee performance without meal.
2. Panache- Moliere: 401 Today: Enjoy comic scenes from famous French playwright Moliere with English subtitles. Read our interview with Panache founders
Comedy/Language at Auburn Frenchfest 2023
1. Talk Dirty Stay Classy: Arnaud Benassy presents this interactive and naughty French swearing show, exploring some of the best French swear words (adults-only show). Read our review of his swearing show here.
2. Free French lessons with Trio M
Workshops and creative activities at Auburn Frenchfest 2023
1. Crepe making workshops: Learn how to make delicious crepes in a fun and small group setting.
2. French-inspired bouquet: Create a beautiful French-inspired bouquet and take it home as a memory of the festival.
3. Make a musical instrument workshop: Get creative and design your own music shaker out of clay.
4. La Petite, children’s floral workshop: Kids can enjoy a floral arranging lesson and take home their lovely creations.
5. Music workshop with Louise: Join a workshop hosted by the talented Louise Blackwell (who is also performing two concerts at Auburn Frenchfest 2023)
6. Circus elements workshops by Circobats: Get active and engage in interactive workshops for kids with various circus skills.
Children’s and family activities at Auburn Frenchfest 2023
1. Puppet Show: Delight in marionette performances of classic stories like Little Red Riding Hood and The Three Little Pigs from the cast of Panache.
2. Dress up your dog French style competition: Have fun dressing up your pooch in French style and win exciting prizes.
3. La Petite, children’s floral workshop: Kids can enjoy a floral arranging lesson and take home their lovely creations
KEY INFO ABOUT AUBURN FRENCHFEST 2023
WHAT: Auburn Frenchfest 2023
WHERE: Auburn, Clare Valley, South Australia
WHEN: 8-10 September 2023
HOW: Register or purchase tickets via the links above
HOW MUCH: Ticket prices depend on the event and some are free.
MORE: You can view the full Auburn Frenchfest 2023 program via this link.
To find more events with links to France and the Francophonie happening in Australia, check out our What’s on in August
