The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is set to host a variety of vibrant cultural and social events from March 17 to March 23, 2025, with highlights that include the 46th edition of the Curieux Voyageurs Festival in Saint-Etienne. This annual festival seeks to celebrate cultural diversity and the beauty of the world through a series of documentaries, photography exhibitions, interactive workshops, and a gathering of globetrotters, authors, and travel professionals.
Taking place during this pivotal week, the Curieux Voyageurs Festival invites attendees to immerse themselves in captivating documentaries and exhibitions that emphasize exploration and understanding. It serves as a portal to engage with stories from across the globe, inviting participants to discover new perspectives. Events like these provide an enriching experience, stimulating curiosity and cross-cultural dialogue.
On Friday, March 21, 2025, the former Prime Minister Alain Juppé will visit Saint-Etienne to participate in a solemn inauguration ceremony at the Faculty of Law. Juppé plans to share insights from his latest work, "Une histoire française." His ongoing involvement with the academic community reflects a commitment to engage in meaningful discussions regarding contemporary issues affecting French society.
In response to broader concerns about budget allocation in the arts, the Comédie de Saint-Etienne is taking a stand by joining a national movement against budget cuts. The event has galvanized several unions, including CGT and FO, highlighting the necessity of maintaining vibrant public arts services across all territories. Protesters displayed a banner reading, "For the Performance to Remain Alive, the Comedy in Struggle," which calls attention to the importance of arts and culture in community engagement.
Additionally, the 71st edition of the SaintéLyon running event has announced that registration opens on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 1:00 PM. This prestigious event promises to attract many participants with various trail options: the historical 80 km route, the express 45 km course, and a sprint at 13 km. Organizers note that the event is limited to 17,000 participants, emphasizing the competitive nature and popularity of this cherished local tradition.
The La Fourmilière cooperative supermarket in Saint-Etienne is also gearing up for its Open Days on April 4 and 5, 2025. This event will provide visitors with guided tours, tastings, and workshops focusing on healthy and sustainable food choices, reinforcing the community’s commitment to wellness and sustainability.
On March 19, at 6:00 PM, the City of Saint-Etienne will hold a public conference at the City Hall on strategies for combating the invasive Asian hornet species. The conference aims to raise awareness among residents about the threats posed by this pest and will distribute selective traps free of charge to attendees, empowering the community to take actionable steps against the proliferation of this invasive species. The theme of the conference, "The Fight Against the Asian Hornet, What Actions?" reflects a proactive approach to environmental stewardship.
In addition to these community-building initiatives, a rally organized by CGT and FO will take place on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Geoffroy Guichard Stadium during the "Health Day" event, spearheaded by Le Progrès. This demonstration is designed to raise awareness about pressing issues in psychiatric care, such as the closure of hospital beds and the need for improved patient care conditions. Activists plan to distribute flyers to the public, aiming to gather support for essential healthcare reforms.
Meanwhile, the Union Musicale de Terrenoire is preparing a grand celebration for its 125th anniversary on April 12, 2025. Scheduled for 8:00 PM at La Comète, this event will feature performances from Roche Danse and Case Escrime, showcasing the rich cultural legacy of this historic harmony group. Tickets are priced at 10 euros, with free entry for children under 12, making it an accessible celebration for the entire community.
Legal issues also emerged recently when the administrative court of Lyon rejected a request from the Al-Kindi Muslim high school in Décines-Charpieu to suspend the State’s decision to terminate its contract. This decision stemmed from allegations regarding the presence of seven books deemed "separatist," differing regulations for gender students, and concerns over management practices. Abdelouahb Bakli, the school's director and local government official, faces scrutiny as the situation unfolds, emphasizing ongoing debates about educational governance and community values.
Lastly, in a nod to community engagement in health and wellness, the Point Information Jeunesse (PIJ) of Veauche will offer an introductory session on laughter yoga on March 26, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This fun and beneficial workshop aims to encourage young people aged 11 to 30 to engage in well-being practices.
From cultural festivities to critical community discussions, the events occurring in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region during this week reflect a commitment to fostering connection, understanding, and proactive engagement among residents. These gatherings not only enrich the social fabric of the community but also promote vital discussions surrounding culture, health, and environmental stewardship.
