The famous St-Jean-Baptiste has been celebrated in Quebec since 1843. It originates from a Catholic tradition dating back to the beginning of the colony in the 17th century. This celebration is associated with the summer solstice, the sunniest day of the year, and marked the beginning of the agricultural season. The tradition included joyous festivities around a large bonfire.

It was around 1834 that the St-Jean-Baptiste became associated with the French-Canadian patriotic movement. At the time, the population was fed up with the abuses of the British ruling class, which had little regard for justice and transparency in the way it governed Lower and Upper Canada. A rebellion was also underway among English Canadians who were also demanding the same changes.

The first St-Jean-Baptiste parade was held in 1843. For French Canadians, this holiday was the equivalent of St. Patrick’s Day for the Irish. Following the hanging of the five patriots on February 15, 1839, the identity of the French-Canadian people crystallized around this holiday, which was seen as an occasion for patriotic pride.

Today, Saint-Jean-Baptiste has become a celebration for all those who are proud to be a Quebecer. Yes, there’s a patriotic undercurrent linked to French roots and the desire to be distinct. But there’s also hope for a strong, prosperous and welcoming Quebec in which everyone finds their place. It’s an occasion for celebration for all Quebecers who want to build a harmonious living environment. Quebec is an enviable place to live in a country, Canada, which has an even greater potential.

In the region, there will be celebrations at the Patro de Fort-Coulonge/Mansfield located at 209 chemin de la Passe on June 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be music, water games, a boat parade, children’s activities and a canteen.

Paul Piché, a legend in Quebec show-business, will be singing in Gatineau (Vieux-Hull) on the evening of June 23 with Sofia Duhaime starting the show at 6 p.m. Admission is free.

The biggest celebration will take place on June 24 at Île-du Grand-Calumet with the Summer Festival starting at 11 a.m. There will be a wide variety of activities, including a car show, inflatable games, clowns, various booths, a canteen and a bar. There will be bingo at noon and The Price is Right at 2 p.m.

In addition, there will be musical performances by Maxime de Wilde at 4:30 p.m., Phil Denault at 7:30 p.m and Martin Duford at 9:30 a.m. Fireworks close the festivities at 10 p.m. All the details are available on the community website. Admission is free.

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