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The Family Guide to BoCoCa: Paris on the BQE

A trip to the City of Lights not in the cards? Head to this Brooklyn 'hood to sample all things French!

By Mimi O'Connor February 14, 2016

“BoCoCa” — AKA, the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens — has long attracted a French-speaking and French-loving population, likely influenced by (among other things) the dual language program at area school P.S. 58. In the past year, a host of new French services and businesses have joined the BoCoCa pioneers, making this Brooklyn spot feel like a far-flung arrondissement of Paris. Click through to see how resident and visiting families can sample its joie de vivre!

To Play & Create En français: Smith Street Workshop

Founded by Olivia Ramsey, who helped establish the acclaimed dual language program at P.S. 58, Smith Street Workshop is a one-stop shop for all classes French, and it's patronized both both French and francophone families in the area. Want a Music Together-style music class in French? They do that. A French sensory art class for child and caregiver, or a more advanced class for older kids without an adult? No problem. Also offered: single-session cooking classes for kids from ages four to 12; a family music class on weekends, summer camp with a new topic every week (French film & digital storytelling; digital comics and cartooning, musical theater, etc.) Plus, in fall of 2016, Smith Street Workshop is launching a French-immersion play group for kids ages two to five.

Smith Street Workshop
581 Henry St.
Carroll Gardens
347-889-7186
Online: smithstreetworkshop.com

photo: via Smith Street Workshop Facebook page

Do you have a favorite place to soak up French culture in NYC? Tell us about it in the comments below!

—Mimi O’Connor

cover photo: via Jacadi London Facebook page