Every year, Madam Watkins, Atherton’s French teacher, hosts an annual food day for her French 3 and 4 students. Students in those classes get a taste of French culture every year, as they are expected to make traditional French dishes. The event, which has become a favorite tradition among French students, celebrates the flavors and community spirit of French cuisine.

Students in Madame Watkins’ higher level classes brought in a wide range of foods inspired by French culture, everything from Bûche de Noël to Potatoes au Gratin. The classroom transformed into a mini bistro, filled with the aroma of warm desserts, savory soups, and homemade creations that showed off students’ effort and creativity.

Stefan Kourelis Fredriksson (12), is in his 4th year of French. He explains how much he enjoys trying all the different foods his classmates bring each year.

“I really loved making chocolate mousse for my class, and getting so many compliments,” said Kourelis Fredriksson. He explains how he feels more exposed to French culture just by simply making, eating, and learning the history of French food.

French food day also encourages students to explore dishes they may have never tried before. Students research traditional foods within French culture, some bake or cook for the first time, while others experiment making hard pastries. Zaylie Barber (11) made macarons for the first time. Although it was hard, she had fun learning how to make something new. In result, the table was full of variety, and a classroom full of hungry students.

Ava Keen (11), is in her 3rd year of French. She looks forward to French food day every year, and can’t wait to experience it next year. “I really enjoy getting to try new foods I’ve never had, and see how well my classmates cook,” said Keen.

Students in French 1 and 2 also get to experience French cuisine later this year in the spring.

With another successful year complete, Madame Watkin’s annual French food day continues to be an event that brings students together.