The original Alliance Française was founded in 1883 in Paris by a group of eminent men, including the scientist Louis Pasteur, the diplomat Ferdinand de Lesseps, the writers Jules Verne and Ernest Renan, and the publisher Armand Colin. The Alliance Française is the largest network of French language and cultural centers in the world. There are:
History
- Over 800 Alliance chapters in the world
- Over 136 countries have at least one city with an Alliance Française
- Over 100 chapters in the United States
Our AFNWCT chapter, originally known as the Alliance Française of Waterbury, was founded by Mesdames Frederic Chase and Henry Wade in 1921 when francophile sentiments were very strong. Many prominent Waterbury area women were members, such as Mesdames Carmody, Feeter, Goss, Kellogg, Munger, Whittemore and White, they were often referred to as “Les Grandes Dames.”
What we offer
French Language Learning for Adults and Children
Whether you are a native or fluent French speaker, a student of the language, or an interested non-French speaker, you are welcome! You’re sure to discover new friendships, a fun atmosphere and find many ways to share your love of all things French!
Mission
The mission of Alliance Française of Northwestern Connecticut is to foster friendship and collaboration between people of the area and the French speaking world by promoting appreciation for both French language and Francophone cultures.
La mission de l’Alliance française du nord-ouest du Connecticut est de favoriser l’amitié et la collaboration entre les habitants de la région et le monde francophone en favorisant l’appréciation de la langue française et des cultures francophones.
Our Events
Social Events
are the core of Alliance Française. Parties are hosted at various members’ homes. Holidays, special occasions and traditions are celebrated in this way. Enjoy catching up with friends and meeting new people. Very reasonably priced, these gatherings afford an opportunity for everyone to practice their French and just have fun.
Pétanque
From May to September Pétanque is a vibrant part of Alliance Française. Private pétanque courts at members’ homes allow for a friendly tournament through the summer. Players can retell their stories with fellow players over a glass of Rosé de Provence or Pastis. The pétanque league usually includes about 25 people of varying degrees of expertise. Newcomers are welcome. Get the ball rolling and fill in our pétanque membership form. Pétanque League
Café Conversation
Winter at Southbury offices, Summer outdoors at a member’s home It’s a great way to start every other Saturday morning, with a cup of coffee, pastries and conversation in French. They generally begin with free-form bavardage and then move on to a subject of current topical interest. Often an article is read aloud and then discussed or a French version of Trivial Pursuit is played.
Lectures
on varying aspects of the arts, culture and history of France and other Francophone countries are an integral part of the educational focus of Alliance Française. Guest speaker topics have included the artists Van Gogh, Monet and Matisse; a brief history of the French connection to the Near East and North Africa; French hip-hop music; and unique travel destinations in France.
Ciné Club
meets every 3rd Thursday at the Southbury Office where themed and curated French films are presented. Film introductions provide a historical perspective and highlight directors, actors and actresses.
Special Events
like an outing to a vineyard or a cooking class occur from time to time. Soyez sur le qui-vivre!
Events Policy
Registration and payment must be received at least seven days in advance. Payment or registration will not be accepted at the door. If the registration and payment are canceled seven days or more in advance, a full refund will be given.
Resources
The office of Alliance Française houses a varied selection of French favorites. Literature for all ages and abilities, a movie collection starring greats such as Catherine Deneuve and featuring directors like François Truffaut. Let’s not forget cooking. Our collection includes books and videos of the amazing Julia Child amongst other famous chefs. Also available are issues of Paris Match and subscription savings for France Amérique magazine. You will also find board games. Yes, Monopoly in French.
