The arrival of La Kermesse this weekend shows that organizers are determined that the show will go on, even though the Franco-American festival is dealing with several handicaps.

Years from now we hope supporters will be able to say that this was the start of La Kermesse’s comeback. This popular event has a sound formula, and looking at the schedule for this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, confirms that organizers are going to stick with the same proven approach.

The location, however, will be different. La Kermesse will be held just off Route 111, at Biddeford Ice Arena and Expo Center on Pomerleau Street. It opens at 5 p.m. Friday, runs from 9 a.m. to midnight Saturday, and continues with a 9 a.m. Catholic Mass Sunday, then entertainment through mid-afternoon.

Longtime fans of the festival and anyone interested in a taste of French-Canadian heritage should give the new La Kermesse a chance. The schedule advertises many familiar features ”“ food vendors, crafters and a petting zoo. Friday’s events include a brewfest and casino, and Franco performers will occupy prime time on Saturday.

As usual, La Kermesse Idol will give would-be entertainers a chance to show their talents.

The entertainment lineup is not as extensive as in past years. There will be no parade, block party or fireworks and amusements will be limited to kiddie rides. And it will not be held on the usual fairground on West Street.

The downsizing is the result of a series of misfortunes ”“ bad weather, a bad economy, some misjudgments and perhaps financial malfeasance. La Kermesse’s reversals have serious implications for all of Biddeford. Years of hard work, combined with the festival’s distinct heritage, had made it a widely-known event, a point of pride, and a drawing-card for the city.

Though it’s a smaller festival, we hope many people will decide a $5 ticket or a $10 button is a good investment for a basic La Kermesse experience, and to get an inkling of the event’s future. It may be that the festival will never return to St. Louis Field and will have to get used to the parking lot and easy access available at the Ice Arena site.

With a pertinent case pending in York County Superior Court, and the organizers under the gun to make this festival a success, this may be the most interesting festival in years for those who are familiar with La Kermesse. It shouldn’t be missed by those who make it a point to keep up with what’s going on.

As they say at La Kermesse: “C’est le temps ”¦ !”

— Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Nick Cowenhoven at nickc@journaltribune.com.