Updated Edition
Do you hear that boum chica boum chi? That’s FME knocking at the door, or rather, it’s already here, like a punctual guest arriving with arms full of goodies. Passport, tickets, rain boots and reusable cup in hand, the whole town is ready. FME regulars know these four days mean one thing: musical discoveries. And even newcomers have a hunch! With hundreds of shows happening in both classic and quirky venues around Rouyn-Noranda, there's a ton to explore between concerts. No downtime allowed, here’s your go-to list to make the most of this wild ride.
Breakfast Buddies: Call Me, Let’s Eat!
What kind of activity list skips food? That’s like a hot dog with no sausage. Breakfast being the most important meal of the day, let’s do it right. Check out our top spots: Balthazar Café serves up rich coffee and heavenly pastries to get you back on track after a late night. More into healthy smoothies and cheerful vibes? Head over to St-Exupéry, where you can grab the classic eggs-bacon-coffee combo or try their much-loved Benedicts. And if you need a caffeine boost, there’s no shortage of cozy cafés to choose from! Café Alto, Bar-Librairie Livresse… even Ô Terrier serves up breakfast during FME.
Now you know exactly where to go to start your day right at the festival!
Between Gigs… What to Do During FME?
Catch an Art Exhibit (or Three)
Visual arts abound in Rouyn-Noranda during the festival. Kicking off August 28, L’Écart – lieu d’art actuel keeps its tradition of launching exhibitions with a festive 5-à-7 vernissage. This year features shows by Lina Choi, Andes A. Beaulé, and Carol Priego, plus a live reading by the authors of Piéger les géant·es, Andes A. Beaulé and Gabrielle Izaguirré Falardeau.
More visual treats await at the Rouyn-Noranda Art Museum and L’Encrage. Don’t miss them!
From Lakeside to Murals: Discover Rouyn-Noranda by Bike
Grandma said nothing in life is free… but she hadn’t heard of RécréOsisko! Located near Maison Dumulon, this program offers free bike rentals all weekend long. Ride off that hangover or simply soak in a fresh perspective of the city. Want to explore murals, ice cream shops or circle the lake? It’s all possible, and even better with a tandem bike, if you're trying to impress last night’s meet-cute. You know what I mean!
After your ride, swing by Maison Dumulon to learn about the town’s origins and the visionary Jos Dumulon, who settled here with his son Léon in 1924. Fascinating Boom Town stories and local history await!
From Hikes to Sweet Treats: your plan B or C of your FME
Rapid-fire options? Hike the Collines Kékéko, stroll the Agnès-Dumulon boardwalk along Lake Osisko, enjoy a cone at Gläss, go bowling or play laser tag at Centre Méga or launch yourself into Escario escape game or indulge at Les Pâtissières de ruelle. Or maybe you just need a power nap to gear up for the evening, that’s fair too. You do you. No judgment here.
Looking for more? Check out Rouyn-Noranda’s tourism site for even more ideas!
Have a blast!
