For five editions now, Rouyn-Noranda has hosted a one-of-a-kind motorcycle festival: the Moto Film Fest in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, or MoFFAT, as it's affectionately known. What does a motorcycle festival look like? Who is it for? And most importantly, how can it appeal to someone who doesn't ride a motorcycle? Céline Aubé and Marc Provencher, both deeply involved in the event, have the answers to these questions!
A Unique Concept in Quebec
To better understand what it's all about, Marc explains that motorcycle film festivals exist in other major cities. However, MoFFAT is unique in Quebec. In 2016, Marc and two motorcyclist friends, Virgil and Cédric, had the wild idea of creating a motorcycle film. Their documentary, No Highway, follows Marc on the Trans-Labrador Highway, then still gravel. The three friends presented their film at a motorcycle film festival in New York. It was at this precise moment that Marc had the idea of bringing this type of event to Abitibi-Témiscamingue.
An Experience Accessible to Everyone
Since then, four editions have followed, and the fifth is scheduled for July 4, 5, and 6, 2024, in Rouyn-Noranda. At first glance, one might think that this type of event is aimed at a closed clique of motorcycle enthusiasts.
Marc explains: "It's mainly the human element on the motorcycle that is highlighted in the films presented. These are human stories. The motorcycle is ultimately secondary." Some of the films will even be presented as world premieres. The film screenings take place at the natural amphitheater on the Osisko Lake peninsula.
"When I ride, I always give a biker wave to young people on scooters and escort them as I pass."
Céline Aubé
The Motorcycle Community: Generosity and Kindness
Marc and Céline explain how motorcycle communities are made up of all kinds of people. In all cases, two characteristics come back to describe them. Motorcyclists are generous and kind, always ready to help others. Céline, an experienced motorcyclist, explains: "When I ride, I always give a biker wave to young people on scooters and escort them as I pass." Marc adds: "Whether you ride a chopper, a motocross, or a sports bike, it translates into passion and community!"
The Events at MoFFAT MoFFAT
MoFFAT Launch
On July 4, at La Guinguette chez Edmond, the festival will kick off with the rock sounds of Félix B. Desfossés on the decks.
La Bête Noire
Riders from all over Quebec are invited to mount their motorcycles and head to Abitibi-Témiscamingue. Nine starting points, one destination: Abitibi-Témiscamingue. Céline will lead the group from Mont-Laurier on July 5. La Bête Noire is a mythical name for the La Vérendrye Wildlife Reserve. Don't worry, this famous Bête Noire has never eaten anyone.
Tourist Motorcycle Ride
On July 6 at 8 AM, Céline will lead a tourist ride to the Miellerie de la Grande Ourse with a stop at Abitibi Harley-Davidson.
Meanwhile, at the official site at La Guinguette chez Edmond, exhibitors will share their passion for motorcycle mechanics and aesthetics. There will be Moto trial demonstrations by the Bélanger family, film presentations, a conference by Marc Chartrand on the Trans-Québec Trails, and a festive evening with a DJ. To view the complete schedule, click here.
Le 6 juillet à 8h, Céline mènera une randonnée touristique à la Miellerie de la Grande Ourse avec un arrêt chez Abitibi Harley-Davidson.
Whether you are passionate about motorcycles or simply curious, MoFFAT is a unique opportunity to discover human stories. On July 4, 5, and 6, 2024, in Rouyn-Noranda, dive into the fascinating world of motorcycle films at MoFFAT.
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