An outport community on the southwest coast with a population of about 60 has just about doubled in size this week for come home year celebrations.

Francois, a community of saltbox houses nestled amongst the fjord, is only accessible by ferry from Burgeo.

But it wasn’t always that way—the community was once a bustling settlement that thrived off the fishery, but many who grew up there have since moved on.

Some of those familiar faces are back home this week for come home year celebrations, which kicked off earlier this week.

Organizer Christine Durnford says locals are excited to see the ferry pull into the harbour, packed with folks some haven’t seen in years.

Durnford says it’s good to see people return home, celebrations or not.

“It’s always good to come home, because in their hearts Francois will always be their home.

Celebrations have been in full swing over the past few days, but there’s still lots more planned for the rest of the week, including the traditional dory races and supper and dance at the community centre.