The City of Coral Gables, founded as an international city, will celebrate French Month in February with a series of cultural events and activities to honor French art, cinema, and cuisine. The celebration coincides with the city’s centennial, marking a century of strong cultural connections and offerings in the City Beautiful.
French Month kicks off on Friday, Feb. 7 with Gables Gallery Night, where several of the participating galleries will feature French-inspired artwork and live music from 6 to 10 p.m. as part of the city’s monthly activation. The festivities continue Feb. 8 at 10 a.m. at the Coral Gables Museum. with a day of French-inspired art activities for budding young artists.
"As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Coral Gables and a sister city relationship with Aix-en-Provence, French Month is the perfect opportunity to highlight our city’s international spirit and connections, said Belkys Perez, director of Economic Development. “This event not only honors our global ties but also enriches our community’s cultural experiences.”
The Coral Gables Art Cinema will showcase French films, including "Cezanne et Moi" on Saturday, Feb. 15 at noon and the children's animation "Phantom Boy" on Sunday, Feb. 16 at noon. The joie de vivre continues at a French Market on Sunday, Feb. 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at McBride Plaza, 150 Miracle Mile, presented by the French American Association of Crafts and Trades. The market brings together purveyors and artisans offering a variety of French goods and crafts in the heart of Miracle Mile.
The cultural tour de force culminates with a Cezanne Conference titled "Odyssey Cezanne" a discussion at the Coral Gables Museum on the life and works of Cezanne. Denis Coutagne, President of the Paul Cezanne Society in Aix-en-Provence and Dr. Nathan Timpano, Chair of the Department of Art & Art History at the University of Miami will lead the discussion at the Coral Gables Museum on Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. Reception will follow.
“These events are a perfect way to experience the charm and sophistication of French culture while celebrating our city’s centennial — a city that continues to grow its international collaborations and cultural exchanges,” concluded Perez.
