Alliance Française de Pasadena Celebrates a Century of French-American Cultural Exchange

Spring unfolds in Pasadena with Alliance Française de Pasadena commemorating its 100th anniversary in April at the historic building now home to Pasadena Hotel & Pool. 

An Alliance Française announcement said the celebration will be on April 18, with an elegant cocktail soirée from 6 to 8 p.m. where attendees can indulge in fine wine, delectable hors d’oeuvres, and live entertainment by the renowned French cabaret singer, Chloé Perrier, accompanied by her jazz band. 

The event will also feature remarks by the French Consul General in Los Angeles, Julie Duhaut-Bedos.

Alliance Française de Pasadena was established in 1924 by Paul Elie Perigord, a distinguished professor of European History at Caltech, as a beacon of French-American camaraderie and education that would foster cross-cultural connections in the community.

Since its inception, Alliance Française has been instrumental in promoting cultural exchange and educational initiatives. In a significant note, Grace Hubble, wife of the renowned astronomer Edwin Hubble, served as one of the organization’s earliest presidents.

Alliance Française has also actively engaged with the Pasadena community, honoring high school students for academic excellence, hosting enlightening lectures by French and American dignitaries and authors, and organizing vibrant cultural events and clubs. It is now the largest testing center for DELF (Diploma in French Language Studies) certification in the U.S. and has been seen as a leader in promoting proficiency in the French language.

The centennial festivities are open to both long-standing members and enthusiasts of Francophone cultures. 

The 100th Anniversary celebration of the Alliance Française de Pasadena is made possible through the generous support of Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger and Wescom Credit Union. 

Ticket and sponsorship information are available at www.afdepasadena.org. Space will be limited, so early reservations are encouraged.