Merrittonians need look no further than the Merritt Civic Centre to experience French Canadian culture.

That's where the Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce will host Merritt's first ever French-Canadian buffet dinner, Sugar Shack (Cabane à sucre), on Feb. 13.

Merritt residents Diane Bouchard and Guy Duchaine, both French-speaking Canadians, are currently recruiting local talent and volunteers.

“It's to get together, just for the pleasure, in a French way,” says Bouchard of Sugar Shack.

“Why not make this happen here in Merritt?”

Bouchard will help cater the evening, which will feature an authentic French Canadian meal, made with maple syrup. She says there will be several dishes made with syrup, including: pancakes, beans, ham, sausages, eggs, and deserts.
Bouchard hopes to introduce the rich French heritage to Merrittonians.

“It's a way to reach these people,” she says.

Bouchard and Chamber of Commerce president Guy Duchaine have arranged for students from Colletville Elementary School's French immersion program to sing during the event.

“There's going to be singing and telling stories,” says Duchaine.

A musician from Bouchard's hometown in Quebec has been lined up to perform but they are still seeking local musicians to come and perform at the dinner.

Bouchard says she would like to see Merritt busker Dennis Bzowy perform with his accordion, an instrument that is often used in French music. She is also looking for a fiddler and someone to play the harmonica.

The dinner begins at 5 p.m. and will be followed by live entertainment.

Tickets are available at Country Bug Books. Proceeds from the dinner will be donated to the Haiti relief effort.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Diane Bouchard at 250-315-0019.