Getting together with family and friends became an occasion, the fabric of their survival as an ethnic group. The Church bound them together, enriched their spiritual lives, nourished strong family values, and encouraged them to keep in touch with their roots, and to keep their language intact. Festivals became the instrument. Only recently has the outside world come to know and appreciate this noble people through their gift for music and cuisine. Festivals tie them together ethnically, and give the outside world a glimpse into the heart of the Acadian.
Acadian festivals abound.
For 37 years the New Brunswick Acadians have staged an annual reunion celebration of the birth of their Acadian nation in that province. Since its beginnings the budget has totalled over 3.7 million dollars. Music, food and dancing centerpiece Acadian festivals. Rosemary Landry served as Honorary Chair Person of the Festival last year. Theater plays an important role with one or more plays written and produced by Acadians and using all Acadian casts.