Looking Back at the 2026 Festival
The 2026 Val-Gatinois Festival was a great success, bringing together 41 artists and nearly 1,300 spectators over eight days in Lac-Sainte-Marie. Featuring 16 performances by local and regional artists, educational activities for children and youth, and a showcase for emerging talent through Secondary School Talent Showcase, the festival celebrated music, culture, and community in a warm and festive atmosphere. The organizers extend their heartfelt thanks to the audience, artists, volunteers, and sponsors whose support helps keep arts and culture thriving throughout the Valley.
The 2026 Festival arrived in Lac-Sainte-Marie at the beginning of spring and brought the community together for eight unforgettable days of music and celebration. Over the course of the festival, 16 performances showcased 41 local and regional artists on the stage of St-Nom-de-Marie Church. Audiences enjoyed a rich variety of musical works presented in French, English, and even Italian. Energized by the enthusiasm of the crowd, the artists were exceptionally generous with their time and talent.
Over the eight-day event, nearly 1,300 spectators from across the region, from St-Sauveur to Mont-Laurier, filled the venue. Artists inspired audiences to dance, the stained-glass windows seemed to vibrate with the music, the floors came alive, and spectators joined in the excitement by singing and dancing in the aisles.
Young people from Southern La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, both French- and English-speaking, aged 3 to 17, were invited to explore their imaginations through a puppet show and an African folktale, while also discovering traditional music and circus arts.
The festival also provided four students from the Secondaire en spectacle program with the opportunity to gain valuable stage experience, showcasing their talents in presentation, singing, and comedy.
Once again, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors for helping us keep arts and culture thriving in the Valley. Thank you as well to everyone who joined us in this special place where time seems to stand still and music gives way to joy.
