French Festival

10 am-5 pm  French Festival Activities

In addition to gallery talks in French and English inside the Mansion, a variety of performances across the campus will provide a wide variety of entertainment:

• New York Baroque Dance Company revives the music and dance of 18th-century country and court life, including lessons in courtly manners for guests of all ages.
• Happenstance Theater adds a delightful French flair with the roving Pierrot & Pierrette. These two French mimetic characters will entertain visitors with music, comedic improvisation, and physical hijinks popular in 18th Century France. 
• In the French Parterre, Madame ToutDeSuite, an 18th-century fictional member of the French court resembling Madame de Pompadour and Marie Antoinette will entertain in whimsical costume reflecting the palette and decoration of the Sèvres Porcelain from the Hillwood collection. She will be joined by the Marquis Aubergine FouFou. Together they will play games with guests and create an atmosphere of French whimsy.
• The Game of Graces and other pastimes enjoyed by French children will prove a challenge for visitors, while others apply their beauty patches—known as mouches—or enter the workshop to create their own finely-crafted gold boxes inspired by one of Marjorie Post’s collecting passions.
• The French Market at the Museum Shop will allow guests to take a little bit of France home from the festival.  A fabulous selection of food such as cookies, mustards, jams, and dried fruits from small family-owned businesses will be offered for sale, along with a carefully curated selection of French housewares.

5-7 pm   Hillwood will remain open for leisurely enjoyment of the Gardens, Mansion, and shopping.

Generously supported by The Sally Foss and James Scott Hill Foundation.

This festival is presented in partnership with Alliance Française de Washington.