French Language Day

French Language Day is a global observance that is recognized by the United Nations (UN) and serves to celebrate multilingualism and cultural diversity. It aims to promote the use of the French language and to encourage respect and understanding between differing cultures and linguistic groups. The day aims to increase awareness of and promote the French language, one of the six official languages of the UN, and its contribution to global heritage and culture.

The origins of French Language Day date back to 2010, when it was first established by the UN to celebrate linguistic diversity and to promote the use of its six official languages equally. For Kiwis, the link between New Zealand and the French-speaking world is primarily historical, cultural, and scholarly. New Zealanders are encouraged to acknowledge French Language Day due to the influential French culture, from café culture to cinema, to literature, to politics, it reminds us of the varied cultural experiences we can enjoy through language learning.

French Language Day in New Zealand is celebrated in various ways from learning French phrases, to tasting French cuisine, and experiencing French art and culture. Educational institutions, cultural organizations and francophone communities across New Zealand often host events like workshops, competitions, and exhibitions to recognize the French language and its cultural influence. Just like any other UN language days, French Language Day happens on a fixed date, the 20th of March, universally without variation specific to New Zealand.