French Culture Week in Odesa: A Celebration of Arts
From July 12 to 19, 2025, Odesa will host a vibrant French Culture Week featuring a series of artistic and educational events that celebrate cultural diplomacy between Ukraine and France. This week will be filled with concerts, exhibitions, readings, creative meetings, and open-air festivals.
Odesa has long been connected to France, with many French émigrés contributing to the city's rich cultural landscape. Over the years, the French language and culture have influenced Odesa’s architecture, arts, and lifestyle.
The city boasts its own French boulevard dating back to the 19th century and is home to numerous cultural institutions that preserve this heritage. Today, Odesa actively collaborates with France in arts and education, exemplified through various projects and initiatives, including the Days of France in Odesa.
Events during the week will involve Alliance Française Odessa along with various cultural partners.
Event Schedule:
July 12, 18:00: Opening of the week with the concert "Bonjour, la France!" at the Odesa National University Botanical Garden, French Boulevard, 48/50.
This evening will be filled with live music and a romantic atmosphere, featuring performances by international competition winners and a tasting of fine wines.
Registration is required: bio.link/fromcats
July 13, 18:30: Odesa Combo concert - a French party outdoors at Union, Courtyard Garden, 43 Troitska St.
Enjoy popular French hits, jazz, and soul music. Free entry.
July 14–18: Exhibition "France Through Ukrainian Artists' Eyes" at the Odesa City Council hall, 1 Birsova Square.
Featuring works inspired by French culture from students and teachers of the art department.
July 15, 13:00: Literary readings "Every Person Has Their Stars" at the I. Franko Central City Library, 1a Book Lane.
Celebrating the 125th anniversary of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Free entry.
July 16, 13:00: Cultural event La belle France at the library on 67 European St.
Featuring performances, ballet, and music. Free entry.
July 19, 17:00: French Culture Festival at the City Garden; City Garden Rotunda.
Join us for music, dance, theatrical performances, exhibitions, workshops, and tastings of French delicacies. Free entry.
Participation Conditions:
Registration is required for the concert on July 12 (via bio.link/fromcats).
Dress code: French flair - a hat, beret, or just a charming smile.
Event language: Ukrainian / partly French.
France is closer than you think.
