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The International Association of Beauforts was established in 1995 when Beaufort-en-Vallee, France hosted the first reunion of Beauforts. The Beaufort, North Carolina organization seeks to promote international cooperation, understanding and development through a variety of dynamic exchanges with cities and towns with whom Beaufort maintains active sister city partnerships. By interpreting our way of life to people of other cultures, we gain a better understanding of our own community. This site provides information on our local organization as well as overviews of each of our sister-city Beauforts.

Bastille Day 2013

Beaufort Sister Cities held its initial "kick-off" party on Bastille Day 2000 and continues, each year, to celebrate July 14 in commemoration of our nation's friendship with France. The French flag and bunting welcomed members to this year's party under tents at the Goellner's backyard where they enjoyed a rich buffet of hors d'oeuvres from Beaufort (Jura) and members' kitchens. French wines included, for a favored few, MacVin, the yellow wine of Jura. Rousing drinking songs were heard in the neighborhood. Visiting "celebrities" included Coco Chanel, Mme. DuFarge, Catherine Deneuve, General Lafayette, among others. (Since a public venue was unavailable, this year's Bastille Day members' potluck celebration was held at the home of Ann and Al Goellner.)

Francophiles gather to celebrate Bastille Day in Beaufort-by-the-Sea
General Lafayette and "Sleeping Beauty" enjoy a few moments chat
Monsieur "Double-jour" waves his tricoulour proudly