On a very hot day about a month ago we went to the Grand Fête de la Moisson at a small village called St Denis de Gastines. These rural people are very good at keeping their traditions alive, and this particular fête is well-known and very popular, not only with farmers but also odd people like us. Apart from what you can see examples of in the pictures below, there was of course food and drink, and in the big tent restaurant there was a dance floor where young and old alike moved to the music from a young woman who played all the old French songs on her piano accordion. Fabulous!
You could say that it was all an exercise in keeping the tradition and farming work methods alive for the adults and to introduce them to the young. There was a wonderful and friendly atmosphere and it seemed everybody had a lovely time. We certainly did!
(Click on pictures to enlarge and enjoy better!)
There were different kinds of pulling power...
... and wondrous working machines...
... and the old guys showed how to do it.
Tractor drivers proudly showed off their vehicles.
And there were plenty of tractors, all dolled up and some with rather faded colours.
We were treated to mobile entertainment as well, and when we returned home the sun also needed a rest.
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2 comments:
Lovely pictures. The Alsace region is also known for all its fêtes during the summer. Sounds like you had a fun day.
Hi CS. The French seem almost as good as the Germans when it comes to the number of holidays they manage to organise in a year!
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