The University of Maine at Fort Kent is hosting its first-ever Poutine Fest this month.
The gathering is being described as a way to celebrate the Acadian culture, which is part of French-Canadian heritage.
The Poutine Fest comes as there are strained relations between Canada and the U.S. over tariffs on Canadian goods, although President Trump said Tuesday that Canada will be “very happy” with any deal in the future.
Poutine is a classic Canadian comfort food of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
“Poutine Fest is a fun way to celebrate our unique Acadian culture while bringing students and community members together over a favorite dish,” said UMFK Acadian Archives Director Patrick Lacroix.
A release from UMaine Fort Kent says the school’s food service provider, Sodexo, will serve up a special all-you-can-eat buffet featuring poutine ,with diners able to taste “several unique versions of the dish while also learning about its cultural history and deep ties to the St. John Valley.”
Poutine Fest will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Nowland Hall dining room. The event is open to the public.
The luncheon is free for UMFK students while general admission is $13.49 per person.
For more information, contact the Acadian Archives at 207-834-7536 or Lisa Roy at 207-834-7504.
