It was a beautiful summer evening with just enough breeze to cool the crowd that gathered for the 16th Annual Bastille Day celebration. The grounds of the historic French Legation in east Austin were dotted with blankets spread across the hillside, as people settled down to listen to the live music of Ava Arenella, Courtney Sanchez, Kalu James and Sway.
Every year the Alliance Francaise d'Austin throws La Fete Nationale, to commemorate the French Revolution and the storming of the Bastille. No passport is required, and you don't even have to be French to enjoy this evening of music, food, games and auction.
Strolling across the lawn we were entertained by the talented jugglers, and then we stopped to watch as players lined up to try their luck at "petanque", a form of boules. In Italy it is called bocce, but the traditional French game is played with hollow metal balls. Whatever you call it, it seems to be addictive.
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A young boy gets some pointers on the game of petanque |
What would a fete be without crepes? Judging by the long queue, the crepes must have been delicious.
Luscious lemon tarts and iced macaroons in the colors of the French flag
These two bon vivants were getting into the spirit of things
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| Tres chic mademoiselle |
If you would like to find out more about Alliance Francaise, or perhaps polish your French, members meet on the first Wednesday of the month for wine (of course) and hors-d'oeuvres. The next aperitif will be at 6pm, August 3rd at Peche.
At 2pm on the second and fourth Sunday of every month, members and guests of Alliance have pot luck and petanque at the Legation. Newbies welcome.
You can email questions to Alliance Francaise at info_@afaustin.org
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