Celebrating Acadian Day

Every year on August 15, residents, families, team members, and the community at Pavillon Landry in Moncton, New Brunswick, come together to celebrate Acadian Day, a cultural event primarily celebrated by French-speaking communities, marking the first Acadian Convention in Memramcook, New Brunswick. This day is honoured by community festivals, family events, and the traditional “Tintamarre,” where Acadians march through the streets making noise to express their solidarity.

In preparation for their celebrations on August 14, residents and Shawna Beaupre, recreation coordinator, shared what Acadian Day means to them.

Lorraine Leger, a resident of Pavillon Landry, has been celebrating Acadian Day for most of her life. Some of her earliest memories of the day are dressing up with her sister in the signature red, white, and blue, and enjoying a poutine râpée. To Lorriane, the day “reminds me of our ancestors and everything they did for us. Without them, we wouldn’t have Acadian Day.”

For resident Dorina Richard, the day is about the pride she holds in being Acadian. Dorina’s Acadian Day highlight is seeing everyone dressed in the bright signature colours and celebrating together.

Resident Therese Melanson said that for her, Acadian Day is the celebration of their beautiful home. When asked about her earliest memories of the day, she highlighted both the great traditional Acadian food and music!

Shawna Beaupre, recreation coordinator, plans all events with the goal of bringing everyone together to spark memories while encouraging residents to reminisce about past experiences and traditions. For Shawna, Acadian Day is an opportunity to show pride in her language, culture, and roots.

This day promises to be unforgettable, filled with joy, music, and great cheer.