Frequently asked questions

General information

What are the benefits of membership in the Alliance Française de Seattle?

As a member of the Alliance Française, you join a community in which the French language and Francophone culture are part of daily life, whether via language studies, food, fashion or film. We help you broaden your understanding of francophone cultures and the French language and we connect native French speakers with today's French diaspora. All members have access to our multimedia resources in addition to regular information and updates about French and francophone-related activities in our area. Find out more about Membership or you learn all about our French courses (Notre Ecole).

Does the Alliance Française offer activities for young adults and children?

Bien sûr! Children and young adults are among our most important members. Throughout the year, we offer dedicated classes for preschool, elementary, and middle school children - as well as activities for those who are already bilingual. We also offer engaging summer camps for children, focused on the creative exploration of French through games, crafts, cooking, singing, outdoor fun, field trips and more.

In what language do the Alliance events take place?

Most Alliance activities are conducted in both French and English. Guest artists from France often make presentations in both - or they take the chance to use their own English, then answer questions in either language. Theatrical presentations in French use English "supertitles" and almost all films are screened with English subtitles. Events presented entirely in French are clearly noted as such in advance.

How does the Alliance Française connect French speakers, native or otherwise, in our area?

In addition to our own team of native speakers (staff, teachers and volunteers), we offer unique opportunities for French speakers to socialize, share activities and celebrate francophone occasions. Our cultural activities, film screenings, performing art programs, lectures and visits by French dignitaries are often unique to the Puget Sound area. Our médiathèque features current French literature, periodicals and films. Plus we send you regular news and information updates about events and items of interest programs throughout the community.

Does the Alliance Française offer programs for business people and professionals?

Les formules de politesse, the French "rules" that govern good manners and interaction, are incorporated into all our language teaching. However, we also offer classes and workshops specifically dedicated to "business French". We facilitate consulting on Franco-American business relations and protocols and can provide language classes customized for the corporate environment. In deference to the busy lifestyles of our professional and working students, our course schedules are also deliberately flexible.

Cultural and social events

What programs do you offer other than language classes?

Our programming embodies our mission and includes activities and events such as workshops, film screenings, book clubs, sports events, dinners, celebrations (both of French holidays and French specialties such as fashion and cuisine), performing arts presentations, and forums with speakers from around the world. We offer events for children and families, and often coordinate with other groups for special activities. We also create events around special guests - such as a French artist from Paris, or a playwright from the French Antilles.

Can I bring a guest or non-member to cultural events?

Unless an event is specifically designated as a Members-Only, all of our cultural activities are open to members' friends, families and interested colleagues. Non-members will usually be charged a slightly higher admission fee.

Can I volunteer at the Alliance Française?

We welcome volunteers. You might help as a monitor in our médiathèque, help input data for our office or aid us with a special event. Our environment is friendly and francophone so you are able to use your French or just improve from hearing it around you. If you are interested, click here to read more.