The phone number, of course, printed on bread!, to make donations for the Telethon
Téléthon en Provence
Last weekend was the annual Téléthon in France. Since 1987, the nation-wide television marathon raises money for rare diseases with a particular focus on muscular dystrophy. We were lucky to be in one of the six “ambassador villages” of France. Maussane-les-Alpilles, our new home, was the village to donate the most in the region so the musical events and especially the amazing boeuf gardian meal was televised. Sadly, we had intermittent rain; however, that certainly didn’t stop us! It seemed like just about everyone was there. There was traditional dancing and costumes, the local firefighters and cadets showed off their talents, live music, and of course lots of food and wine!
This way my view from the cafe. If you’re wondering why it looks like the building on the far right is on fire, it’s because the local “pompiers” were showing off their skills (with fake fires of course)
Local Arlesiennes in costume eating their delicious Boeuf Gardian.
The table was so incredibly long; it must have seated at least 250 people! The boeuf gardian had to be made by several different restaurants in the region.
So far, 80,25 million euros has been raised for the event. Provence was well represented by gastronomy as Maussane-Les-Alpilles held Pistou Soup demonstrations, Aioli competitions, and Avignon sold 30,000 faugasse breads! The local olive mill has created a special blend for the event that can be bought all over the village (the local bakeries included of course).
Beautiful horses. Their driver was well taken care of during the events as I noticed she was given many coffees and delicious snacks!
Chocolate tart or pear tart for dessert…
Traditional dancing in the square
Soupe au Pistou
A Parisian tasting Chantal’s Soup Au Pistou for television
Deliciousness after a morning’s work
I love these bowls!
a bit rainy but I think there’s enough wine to keep everyone warm…
You can still donate this entire week by phone or text.
Soaking up the atmosphere…
See inspiration for visiting Provence during the winter.
The most loveliest of villages in Provence-our home away from home. Lovely report. Merci!
you’re very welcome!
Ashley and Robin, . All the best in the transforming of your. new home in this charming village. I love these pictures. The table…250 seats….food, dance, costumes, money raised, wine, olive oil, etc all show the pride everyone has in the village. We never got to see this lovely place…maybe some day! Babs