Once again this year, Trois-Rivières asserts its title as the capital of poetry with the presence of about one hundred language artists and wordsmiths who will be sharing their passion at the International Poetry Festival (Festival international de la poésie), from September 29 to October 8. As blazing fall colours will be setting in around the forests, poets hailing from thirty countries will be sharing their emotion-filled works with the public in downtown cafés, restaurants and art galleries, in a variety of activities running from morning to night. Visit the website for the full schedule.

See how poetry and opera mingle

Here's an event that's sure to surprise you! On Thursday, October 5, the poetry festival invites you to the Suite Soixante restaurant for a highly original dinner-and-show concept. Over a delicious meal, you'll be transported by the words of three poets who will read excerpts from their works. And to add even more wonder to this dinner, the readings will be interspersed with opera arias that will charm even the uninitiated. This not-to-be-missed event starts at 6:30 p.m. Reservations are required, so don't delay!

Poems by candlelight

Another much-appreciated event is the poetry evening in the chapel at the Musée Pierre-Boucher. This venue known for its special cachet is even more impressive with a hushed, enchanting atmosphere created by the glow of hundreds of candles! In this gentle ambience, you'll hear texts by two poets presented simultaneously with projection of a dozen works of art that served as the inspiration. The event will be scored with a performance by classical musicians, whose instrumental pieces will complement the presentation. The event takes place on Friday, October 6, starting at 8 p.m.

Discover the festival’s major event

The flagship event, la Grande soirée Québecor de la poésie, features 20 award-winning poets on stage. These poets will charm audiences in French, but also in their mother tongue; the diverse sounds are sure to convey their sensibility to the audience. Musical interludes will ensure harmonious segues on what promises to be a most memorable evening. The event takes place on Saturday, October 7, starting at 8 p.m., at the Maison de la culture. A pass (offered free of charge) is required.