La Fête de la Musique

 This lovely event was launched in 1982 by the French Ministry for Culture, and now the Fête de la Musique is held throughout France and in more than hundred countries in Europe and all over the world. Today La Fête de la Musique is an annual music celebration in France which usually takes place on the  Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, which was June 21^st this year. This Fête is celebrated everywhere in France from neighborhoods in large cities, like Lyon, to the smallest villages.  Wherever you may be in France on that magical day, you will be able to enjoy music.  What kind of music?  You name it!  Something for every music taste and typically enjoyed outside, in neighborhoods, or in public spaces, etc.  We have heard everything from the Orchestre National de Lyon playing a selection of John Williams movie themes to DJs performing in parks to American style rock and roll, etc.  And, it’s all free!

We are fortunate to live above the City Bar, a neighborhood restaurant and bar, and across the street from its sibling, the City restaurant. Both are run by folks who greet us warmly as “voisins” (neighbors).  And, the sponsors of our local Fête de la Musique concert.

This year while David was gone on THE annual bike trip, I was fortunate to have my Kirkland Neighbor, Patty Leverett, visiting lovely Lyon.  So, Patty and I checked in with the folks at the City Bar from time to time to get their info on their plans for La Fête.  (The seating was in front of the City Bar, and the band was located in front of Le City Restaurant.) We agreed to arrive a little early, stake out a good table, and get some beer and food.  The first one to arrive was to grab a table.

The City Restaurant - this is where the band will set up.

Great call on our part!  We got a perfect table, we were greeted by our Voisins, and settled in before the band started and the place got crowded.  The band was a good one and the vocalist was great.  Surprisingly all the songs were from the US – rhythm and blues and rock and roll.  They ranged from oldies to more current selections.  And, all were done very well – it’s amazing how much talent there is hiding out there!

The band!  (Singer is standing just left of center.)

The place started filling up with families, couples, and individuals – all having a good time and really enjoying the music.  

Not an empty seat to be found!

Another beer and more fun music, and it was getting late. Patty and I started feeling the effects of our long walking tour of Lyon, so we agreed to call it a night and regroup the next morning for coffee pastries.  I was able to continue to enjoy the music into the night right from my apartment.  All I had to do was open my windows to continue to savor the energy, sounds, and fun. 

I do enjoy the Fête de la Musique!