Explained: What is a Maison des Jeunes in France?

Acronym: MJC (Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture)

Founded in 1947, there are now around 1,000 MJCs in France. Earlier this year they hit the headlines when Culture Minister Rachida Dati announced her desire to make them “eligible” for the Pass Culture – a scheme aimed at making it easier and cheaper for 15-to-18-year-olds to access culture. 

We take a closer look at what these centres provide, and why they are not just for youngsters.

What do MJCs do?

MJC is short for Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture, which literally translates as ‘house for youngsters and culture’. 

In reality, they are community centres for cultural activities. 

Despite including the word jeunes, the national network of MJCs offers services to all age groups.

Each MJC is an association and ones affiliated to the MJC de France are also recognised by the Youth and Culture Ministries. 

According to that federation, the clubs aim to “develop each individual's personality in a convivial atmosphere” by offering courses and events that bring people together to educate and create connections.

What can you do at a MDJ?

Whatever hobby or cultural activity you are interested in, there is probably something on the programme at your local MJC. 

Weekly events often include language courses, sports coaching, music lessons and wellbeing sessions, such as yoga or qigong.

Meanwhile, one-off events can include live concerts, conferences and theatre or circus shows. 

What are the costs?

Funding comes from mairies, which usually provide premises in a municipal building and grants. 

Other levels of local government often help, while MJCs offering cultural activities also attract funds from the Dracs (regional branches of the Culture Ministry) and the caisse d’assurances sociales may be involved if they have a ‘social welfare’ role. 

People running activities may be volunteers or paid professionals. Thanks to their public-interest focus, the MJC network generally offers activities at a much more affordable rate than private businesses. 

You will pay a small joining fee (adhésion), then the price of each course or activity is often on a sliding scale so those on lower incomes pay very little. 

For example, a year of weekly yoga sessions can cost as little as €62, or a three-hour weekly guitar group lesson just €98. 

Many MJCs offer the option to spread the payments. You will probably also discover a range of free activities on various dates, which can be a boon for your social and cultural life.

How do I get involved?

Visit your nearest MJC during opening hours for more details, or look on their website. 

While some courses start with the new school year in September, many others begin with each new term. There are also one-off events throughout the year and often special events during school holidays too. 

Find out more at: mjc-de-france.fr.