Vieux-Aylmer Festival under new management after a decade with APICA

Tashi Farmilo

After more than ten years at the helm of Vieux-Aylmer’s flagship summer festival, the Association des professionnels, industriels et commerçants d’Aylmer (APICA) is stepping aside. A significant transition was confirmed during the municipal council meeting on May 13, when the City of Gatineau approved $200,000 in funding for two new festivals to be organized by a different group: the Corporation du Vieux-Aylmer.

APICA, which marked the festival’s 10th edition in 2023, has been instrumental in organizing cultural events that celebrate the historic character of Aylmer and support its commercial core. This year, however, APICA has confirmed it will not be organizing a summer event, instead focusing on autumn programming. The new organizers will oversee events slated for August and September, each receiving $100,000 in public funding.

The new festivals are set to take place on rue Principale, and while full details are yet to be released, the Corporation du Vieux-Aylmer has promised street animation, live music, family activities, and kiosks highlighting local merchants. A press conference in June is expected to provide the full lineup and programming details.

This move is part of Gatineau’s broader strategy to reinvigorate its historic sectors and boost cultural tourism. City officials cited economic and community development as key goals, with mechanisms in place to track the success and impact of the new events.

The shift from APICA to a new events organization marks a pivotal moment for Vieux-Aylmer’s cultural calendar, and one that residents and local businesses will be watching closely