Spring in Abitibi-Témiscamingue isn’t just about blooming buds, it’s also when culture bursts to life. Two major events bring May to life in our region: the Salon du livre de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue (SLAT), held in Amos from May 22 to 25, 2025, and the Festival des Guitares du Monde, happening in Rouyn-Noranda from May 24 to 31, 2025.
The Salon du livre – More than just books
Let’s start with the SLAT. Each year, the Book Fair changes host cities. This time, it’s Amos’s turn. No need to be a literature major to feel welcome. This event is for everyone: kids, the curious, daydreamers, nostalgic readers, even those who haven’t cracked a novel since high school.
It’s a wide-open door to literary worlds that are accessible, diverse, and moving. It’s a great way to spark a child’s love of reading or to reignite your own passion for stories.
A rich and varied SLAT program
Take a look at the full schedule, you’re sure to find an activity that piques your interest or an author who speaks to you.
Of course, meeting authors in person is one of the most exciting aspects of the event. You’ll also get to attend discussions, interviews, and panels covering a range of topics.
This year, Michel Rabagliati, creator of the beloved Paul graphic novels, will be featured in a youth radio interview.
Renowned author Heather O’Neill will take part in an in-depth conversation about literature, inspiration, and creativity. Her works include Lullabies for Little Criminals (2006), The Girl Who Was Saturday Night (2014), Daydreams of Angels (2015), and The Lonely Hearts Hotel (2017).
Don’t miss the captivating panel "Entre cerveau, psychologie et voies spirituelles" with Bruno Dubuc, Alain Crevier, and Nathalie Plaat exploring the mysteries of the human mind, from science to spirituality.
Also on the schedule, the book launch of "Ose croire en toi" by Murielle Angers-Turpin (Éditions MAT), a heartfelt call for self-confidence and boldness.
An interview with author Isabelle Rivest will delve into her powerful book Nos mères meurent (Éditions du Quartz), hosted by Roxanne Brousseau.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
You can find the full program here.
Festival des Guitares du Monde – Music in all its forms
Just a few days later, get ready to change tempo with the Festival des Guitares du Monde. In springtime, Abitibi-Témiscamingue is the ultimate destination for music lovers. Whether you're into jazz, flamenco, folk, or blues, there’s something here for you.
The festival features a packed indoor concert lineup starring both big-name and emerging artists.
Highlights include:
- May 24: Opening night with an exclusive performance by Vincent Vallières and Patrice Michaud at the Centre de Congrès.
- May 25: Jazz virtuoso Julian Lage ignites the Desjardins stage.
- May 26: Nikamu Mamuitun, Nikamu Mamuitun, a powerful collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists, delivers an emotional performance. Mentors Florent Vollant, Réjean Bouchard, and Guillaume Arsenault have guided singer-songwriters like Matiu, Karen Pinette-Fontaine, Scott Pien-Picard, and others in this moving celebration of music
Preview: Nikamu Mamuitun/Chansons rassembleuses - Puamunan - May 27: Bobby Bazini, charms the crowd with his distinctive voice, while Duo Thémis performs beloved classics at Agora des Arts
- May 29: Flamenco master Jesse Cook takes the audience on a mesmerizing musical journey.
Preview: Jesse Cook | Boom - May 30: Joanne Shaw Taylor, known as one of the finest guitarists of her generation, brings electrifying energy to the stage
- May 31: The festival closes with rising country star Owen Riegling, delivering a performance to remember
Preview: Owen Riegling - Old Dirt Roads
And it doesn’t stop there. Many shows are completely free!
Every day at noon, the outdoor stage comes alive, perfect for a musical lunch break.
You’ll also discover incredible talent from Abitibi-Témiscamingue itself, including: Parle parle jazz jazz (guess the genre!), All in the Bine (Abitibi bluegrass), Hélium Trio (popular hits covers) and Belle Lurette (hits from the '70s).
Here’s what awaits you at lunch time during the FGMAT:
- May 24: Julyan
- May 25: Parle parle jazz jazz
- May 26: Tamara Weber
- May 27: All In de Bine
- May 28: Joey Joseph
- May 29: Belle Lurette
- May 30: Hélium Trio (acoustic)
- May 31: Sultans of String String
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This event takes you on a journey without ever leaving the region. Intimate concerts, inspiring encounters, local and international artists sharing their passion with a warm and curious audience. It’s a musical adventure, one chord at a time. Be sure to check out the full program, there’s so much to discover!
Between the inspiring pages of the Salon du livre de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue and the vibrant notes of the Festival des Guitares du Monde, May in Abitibi-Témiscamingue promises to be full of emotion and discovery. Whether you’re into novels or guitar solos, there’s something here to feed your soul and your ears.
In Abitibi-Témiscamingue, spring is a cultural playground. Make the most of it!
