November 2024 Newsletter

This November, the Alliance is thrilled to offer you a delightful distraction from the election chaos - because sometimes, a break from the noise is exactly what we all need. 

Classical music lovers are invited to the Goodson Chapel in Durham on November 14, 7 PM, for a Tribute to Gabriel Fauré, honoring the centenary of his passing. This free piano and violin concert is sponsored by the French Embassy and the Duke Department of Romance Studies.

While Thanksgiving may dominate the calendar at the end of November, there is another holiday the francophiles will want to celebrate: Beaujolais Nouveau Day! This year, we’re once again gathering at the Skema Business School on November 21 for a celebration of Beaujolais Nouveau.  As everyone knows, the wine is merely a pretense, the true focus is on honoring tradition and bringing everyone together.

And don’t miss out on our special outing to the North Carolina Museum of Arts on November 23.  We’ll explore the special exhibition "Venice & the Ottoman Empire," with our favorite docent Diane Beckman. This ambitious exhibit highlights the fascinating interactions between these two Mediterranean rivals in politics, art, technology, and even food.

Join us for the fun, stay for the culture, and let’s enjoy a month of togetherness! 

Here is what else the Alliance has in store this month:

Café Chansons

Café Chansons

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6320 Pleasant Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613

Join us for Café Chansons - a casual singalong where everyone is welcome.  No singing experience (or perfect pitch) required!

We’ll sing beloved French classics and contemporary favorites; from Piaf to Zaz. Whether you’re a karaoke star or just like to mumble along, there’s a place for you.  All levels of French welcome!  Got an instrument? Bring it along and jam with us!  Click Register to see our current list of songs.

In French, free for all.




Register Here Register Here
King's Cake Contest

King's Cake Contest

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6320 Pleasant Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613

It’s that magical time of year when flour flies, ovens work overtime, and we all pretend we’re professional bakers!  Whether you whip up your galette des rois with the classic frangipane or get wildly creative,  we want to see your masterpieces. Not feeling the baking vibes? No worries, you can still join the chaos and vote… because someone’s gotta judge all that sugary glory!

6320 Pleasant Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613
Free and open to all.




Register Here Register Here
The Art of Jacques Pépin

The Art of Jacques Pépin

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Online

This special event offers members of the Alliance Française community a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the world’s most beloved culinary figures. Having recently celebrated his 90th birthday, Jacques Pépin continues to inspire with his artistry, generosity, and lifelong dedication to the pleasures of good food, creativity, and connection.
In English - free for members




Register Here Register Here
Trip to Corsica - June 17-26

Trip to Corsica - June 17-26

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Online

Dreaming of crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountains, and charming coastal towns? Join us for a Zoom information session to learn all about our all-inclusive trip to Corsica! We'll walk you through the itinerary, accommodations, activities, and what’s included - plus answer all your questions live.  Whether you’re curious about Corsica’s culture, cuisine, or breathtaking landscapes, this session is the perfect way to see if this unforgettable adventure is right for you.




Register Here Register Here
Ciné-Club

Ciné-Club

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French Cultural Center - 6320 Pleasant Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613

Join us for the screening of the Golden Globe nominee Intouchables (Untouchables, 2011,) a playful and heartwarming portrayal of an unlikely friendship between a quadriplegic and his unconventional caregiver.  Based on a true story.
In French with English subtitles - Free for all
Note: The event was moved from 1/24 to 1/25.




Register Here Register Here
Crêpe Night in Wilmington

Crêpe Night in Wilmington

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Far From France Bakery & Bistrot

Live in the Wilmington area?  Join the AF Wilmington Annex to celebrate "La Chandeleur" (Crêpe Day) at Far From France Bakery & Bistro.
Reserve your table by calling Far from France at (910) 833-5002 - limited to 30 people!




Register Here Register Here
Le Café

Le Café

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6320 Pleasant Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613

Join us at the Alliance Française for casual French conversation with fellow members.
We provide coffee and tea, and the library is open!
6320 Pleasant Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613
In French - For members and aspiring members
No need to register




Register Here Register Here
Pétanque

Pétanque

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6320 Pleasant Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613

Join us for a game of pétanque!  No experience required.  We have a few sets of boules if you don't have any.
6320 Pleasant Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613
The game may be cancelled in case of rain.
Free and open to all




Register Here Register Here
How French Cartographers Shaped The New World

How French Cartographers Shaped The New World

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Online

Taking Measure of America - How French Cartographers Shaped “The New World” with Roger Mummert
A presentation by Roger Mummert of www.theparisproject.net in association with the Federation of Alliances Françaises USA
Among the first Europeans to reach North America were French explorers and cartographers. The maps created from their explorations fundamentally impacted how colonizers would lay claim to enormous portions of North America - and how emerging nations would later redefine those claims. 
Free for Members




Register Here Register Here
La Chandeleur

La Chandeleur

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6320 Pleasant Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613
$15.00 USD

Come celebrate La Chandeleur with us - the French tradition of indulging in delicious crepes! 

Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
Time: 1-3pm
Location: 6320 Pleasant Pines Dr. Raleigh, NC 27613
$15/person




Register Here Register Here



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