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	<title>FrenchDuck UK - Latest &#187; France Events</title>
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		<title>Easter Feria in Arles</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/03/easter-feria-in-arles.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/03/easter-feria-in-arles.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Mar 2010 05:34:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[13 Bouches-du-Rhone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Baux de Provence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FrenchFood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Heritage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[arles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[baux]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[camargue]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[unesco]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[van gogh]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ April 2, 2010 to April 5, 2010. ] Arles (13 Bouches-du-Rhone, Provence) starts its bullfighting season with the Feria de Pâques (Easter Festival) from 2 - 5 April 2010.

Many visitors may feel squeamish or even disapproving about the spectacle of bull-fighting, but it is a long-maintained tradition in Provence and southern France, especially in the Camargue.  You can however still enjoy the spectacle <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/03/easter-feria-in-arles.html">Easter Feria in Arles</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Arles (13 Bouches-du-Rhone, Provence) starts its bullfighting season with the <strong><em>Feria de Pâques </em></strong>(Easter Festival) from 2 &#8211; 5 April 2010.</p>
<p>Many visitors may feel squeamish or even disapproving about the spectacle of bull-fighting, but it is a long-maintained tradition in Provence and southern France, especially in the Camargue.  You can however still enjoy the spectacle (and avoid the risk of any gore)by seeing the noisy and colourful parades and bull-running through the town. My view is that if you really object to this form of &#8220;entertainment&#8221; then avoid the area.</p>
<p>The bull-fighting (<em>corrida</em>) takes place in the spectacular Roman Arena in Arles, and there are other options such as the  Course Camargaise, which is another local form of bullfighting without the drawing of any blood.</p>
<blockquote><p><strong><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/arkesferia.jpg"><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/cd9c209125e15e0c5649eb8aebf24048.jpg" alt="arles feria 2010 poster" width="214" height="300" align="right" /></a>About course camarguaise</strong>:  <strong> </strong>It is a summer pastime practiced in many small towns around Arles and  the area. There are local leagues which are reported in local  newspapers..<br />
This different kind of bullfighting is known alternately  as &#8220;<em>course libre</em>&#8221; or &#8220;<em>course camarguaise</em>&#8220;. This is a bloodless  spectacle (for the bulls) in which the objective is to snatch a rosette  from the head of a young bull.</p>
<p>The participants, or <em>raseteurs</em>, begin training in their early teens  against young bulls from the Camargue region before graduating to  regular contests held principally in Arles and Nîmes but also in other  Provençal and Languedoc towns and villages.<br />
Before the course, anencierro — a &#8220;running&#8221; of the bulls in the streets —  takes place, in which young men compete to outrun the charging bulls.  The course itself takes place in a small (often portable) arena erected  in a town square.<br />
For a period of about 15–20 minutes, the raseteurs  compete to snatch rosettes (cocarde) tied between the bulls&#8217; horns.  They don&#8217;t take the rosette with their bare hands but with a claw-shaped  metal instrument called a <em>raset</em> or <em>crochet</em>(hook) in their hands, hence  their name. Afterwards, the bulls are herded back to their pen by  <em>gardiens</em> (Camarguais cowboys) in a bandido, amidst a great deal of  ceremony. The star of these spectacles are the bulls, who get top  billing and stand to gain fame and statues in their honor, and lucrative  product endorsement contracts!</p></blockquote>
<p>For more info on the Feria see <a href="http://www.arenes-arles.com/arles_info/anglais/indexA.htm" target="_blank">www.arenes-arles.com</a></p>
<p>Arles is a <a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/164" target="_blank">UNESCO</a> World Heritage site for its ancient Roman and medieval history: &#8220;It has some impressive Roman monuments, of which  the earliest – the arena, the Roman theatre and the cryptoporticus  (subterranean galleries) – date back to the 1st century B.C. During the  4th century Arles experienced a second golden age, as attested by the  baths of Constantine and the necropolis of Alyscamps. In the 11th and12th centuries, Arles once again became one of the most attractive  cities in the Mediterranean. Within the city walls, Saint-Trophime, with  its cloister, is one of Provence&#8217;s major Romanesque monuments.&#8221;</p>
<p>Arles also has strong connections to Vincent Van Gogh who spent 15 months of his most productibe period in the town; also nearby is the Camargue, a largely unspoilt regional natural park lying between 2 arms of the Rhone delta. To the east are the charms of Les Baux de Provence, St Remy-de-Provence and the wines of Les Baux de Provence AC &#8211; where I would recommend a visit to <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2008/03/mas-sainte-berthe-les-baux-de-provence-ac.html">Mas Ste Berthe</a> to try (and buy) some of their wines and/or olive oil and to takes a walk around the signpost route around the vineyard.</p>
<p>For more info on Arles and the surrounding area see <a href="http://www.tourisme.ville-arles.fr/us/index_us.php" target="_blank">www.tourisme.ville-arles.fr</a><br />
Arles is twinned with<a href="http://www.wisbechtowncouncil.org.uk/arles.html" target="_blank"> WISBECH</a> in Cambridgeshire &#8211; although I doubt you will find much bull-running there! &#8211; although it is known as the Capital of the Fens which could be considered as comparable to the Camargue &#8211; flat, marshy and a haven for wild life.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Arles.htm?label=fdcom&amp;a_aid=13922" target="_blank">Find best hotel rates in Arles</a></p>
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		<title>Black pudding festival in Orne</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/03/black-pudding-festival-in-orne.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/03/black-pudding-festival-in-orne.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010 08:48:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[61 Orne]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FrenchFood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boudin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mortagne-sur-perche]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ March 20, 2010 to March 22, 2010. ] Another supposedly British tradition has been hijacked by those Frenchmen! - This time it is the veritable Black Pudding, previously thought to be the highlight of Scottish and northern breakfasts - but in its guise as Boudin Noir (a well-establshed French delicacy, the French town of Mortagne-sur-Perche (61 Orne, Normandie) is holding a Black Pudding <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/03/black-pudding-festival-in-orne.html">Black pudding festival in Orne</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Another supposedly British tradition has been hijacked by those Frenchmen! &#8211; This time it is the veritable Black Pudding, previously thought to be the highlight of Scottish and northern breakfasts &#8211; but in its guise as Boudin Noir (a well-establshed French delicacy, the French town of Mortagne-sur-Perche (61 Orne, Normandie) is holding a Black Pudding Festival from 20-22 March 2010</p>
<blockquote><p><a href="http://www.normandie-tourisme.fr/normandy-tourism/main-menu/calendar-of-events/it-s-happening-205-2.html"><img title="black pudding festival" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/f37ec35b2a366d4c995c3943075f1f59.jpg" alt="black pudding festival" width="260" height="162" align="right" /></a>Those who thought black pudding was a purely Scottish affair need think again, as the international contest to find the best black pudding takes place next March in the historic French village of Mortagne-au-Perche in the Orne area of Normandy.<br />
The 46th annual black pudding festival will celebrate the culinary traditions of the region, with local cook-offs, celebrity chefs as well as a host of gastronomic stalls and exhibits open to the public.<br />
The main part of the festival is the black pudding competition which sees over 650 competitors from across Europe but there are also two fiercely fought culinary competitions open to professional and amateur chefs who reside in the Orne.  They are charged with creating and cooking the best dish &#8211; fish-based for the professionals, and a desert for the amateurs &#8211; using local produce such as apples, calvados, cider, pommeau, cream, butter and cheese to create their dish.</p></blockquote>
<p>Specialist butchers and delicatessens will be demonstrating the art of making a black pudding, and visitors may sample and be their own judge of the best recipe.</p>
<p>For more info see <a href=" http://www.normandy-ornetourism.com/default.asp?cat_id=561" target="_blank">www.normandy-ornetourism.com</a></p>
<p><a href="http://frenchduck.co.uk/wordpress/regions/normandy">Where to stay (B&amp;B) in Normandy?</a></p>
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		<title>Brass music festival in Limoux</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/03/brass-music-festival-in-limoux.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/03/brass-music-festival-in-limoux.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:26:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[11 Aude]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Corbières]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Limoux]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Carcassonne]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ April 28, 2010 to May 2, 2010. ] We tend to connect Brass Bands with gritty northern towns in the UK, but by way of contrast the town of Limoux (11 Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon), south of Carcassonne. is hosting a Brass Band Festival (Festival Limoux Cuivrée Spéciale) from 29 April to 2 May 2010.

Amongst the bands appearing are the UK's BBC Big Band, the <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/03/brass-music-festival-in-limoux.html">Brass music festival in Limoux</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We tend to connect Brass Bands with gritty northern towns in the UK, but by way of contrast the town of Limoux (11 Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon), south of Carcassonne. is hosting a Brass Band Festival (<em>Festival Limoux Cuivrée Spéciale</em>) from 29 April to 2 May 2010.</p>
<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/brass_limoux.jpg"><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/bb5c95176320329ffaa8a5b0c89deafb.jpg" alt="limoux brass festival poster" width="300" height="172" align="left" /></a>Amongst the bands appearing are the UK&#8217;s<strong> BBC Big Band</strong>, the <strong>French Band of the Republican Guard</strong> and a quintet of trumpets <em>&#8220;<strong>Les Trompettes de Lyon</strong>&#8220;</em>.  There are also fringe events so the otherwise quiet town will be full of rich sound.</p>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.festivalcuivre.fr/index.html#" target="_blank">www.festivalcuivre.fr</a></p>
<p>Limoux is a good base for visiting the Pyrenees, Cathar country and the spectacular fortified medieval city of Carcassonne. Local wines include the still and sparkling white wines of Limoux (visit Antech), and furthe east you enter Corbieres country.</p>
<p><span style="color: #339966;"><em>Interesting that the French refer to Brass in this context as &#8220;cuivrée&#8221; which is more literally &#8220;coppered&#8221; &#8211; in general the term &#8220;brass&#8221; does not necessarily imply that the instrument is made from brass, but it belongs to a group of instruments where the sound is made by &#8220;lip vibration&#8221; &#8211; and of course includes the Saxaphone which is promarily made of wood. Presumably the same applies to the French use of the term &#8220;cuivrée&#8221;!</em></span></p>
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		<title>Carnival in Albi</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/carnival-in-albi.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/carnival-in-albi.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 21 Jan 2010 21:32:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[81 Tarn]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Art]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gaillac]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[albi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Carnival]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[castanet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[labarthe]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ February 20, 2010 to February 28, 2010. ] The town of Albi (81 Tarn et Garonne, Midi Pyrenees) holds its annual Carnival celebration from 20 - 28 February 2010.

Albi is perhapes best known for its pink brick Cathedral, the Toulouse Lautrec museum and the birthplace of the Albigensian Crusades which led to the Cathar heresy and battles.

However for a week in February the <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/carnival-in-albi.html">Carnival in Albi</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/albicarnaval.jpg"><img title="albi carnaval banner" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/6f33ceee597519c21d76b4748faef76a.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="238" align="right" /></a>The town of Albi (81 Tarn et Garonne, Midi Pyrenees) holds its annual Carnival celebration from 20 &#8211; 28 February 2010.</p>
<p>Albi is perhapes best known for its pink brick Cathedral, the Toulouse Lautrec museum and the birthplace of the Albigensian Crusades which led to the Cathar heresy and battles.</p>
<p>However for a week in February the town goes into Carnival mode with Carnival Queens, Parades, floats, music etc to jollify the streets of the town.</p>
<p>I have stayed at the <a href="http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Mercure_Albi_Bastides_Hotel.htm?label=fdcom&amp;a_aid=13922" target="_blank">Mercure Bastides Hotel in Albi</a> is centrally situated by the River Tarn with great views of the Cathedral.</p>
<p>Whilst in the area you can visit the vineyards of Gaillac AC. I can recommend the <a href="http://www.vinlabarthe.com" target="_blank">Domaine de Labarthe </a>at Castanet which produces some very good Gaillac reds, dry and sweet whites. Sparkling and Gaillac Perlé ( a lightly petillant dry white).</p>
<p>For more info on the Albi Carnival see <a href="http://www.carnaval-albi.com/" target="_blank">www.carnaval-albi.com</a></p>

<p>For more info on Albi see <a href="http://www.albi-tourisme.fr/us/" target="_blank">www.albi-tourisme.fr</a></p>
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		<title>Avignon and the roses at AlteraRosa</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/avignon-and-the-roses-at-alterarosa.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/avignon-and-the-roses-at-alterarosa.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 17:37:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[84 Vaucluse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gardens]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Altera Rosa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Avignon]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ May 13, 2010 to May 16, 2010. ] Think ahead to warm (or even hot) Spring days in Provence - add the magnificent Pope's Palace (Palais de Papes) in Avignon and a stunning exhibition of roses - sounds vert enticing! 13 May -16 May 2010 are the dates for the 2010 edition of this annual celebration of the beautiful Rose.

For 4 days the <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/avignon-and-the-roses-at-alterarosa.html">Avignon and the roses at AlteraRosa</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/alterarosa09.jpg"><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/2bdf36252b508736c540ff7594deeca9.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" align="right" /></a>Think ahead to warm (or even hot) Spring days in Provence &#8211; add the magnificent Pope&#8217;s Palace (Palais de Papes) in Avignon and a stunning exhibition of roses &#8211; sounds vert enticing! 13 May -16 May 2010 are the dates for the 2010 edition of this annual celebration of the beautiful Rose.</p>
<p>For 4 days the Cloister of St Benedict in the Palais de Papes is bedecked with hundreds of varieties of roses,  including some new strains &#8211; making the whole place a riot of colour and perfume. There  is a competition for the best rose and the opportunity to buy or just enjoy.</p>
<p>However implausible it may seem even southern Provence has had snow this winter &#8211; so its not just the northern climes which have suffered &#8211; see www.avignon-tourisme.com for pictures of Avignon in the snow!!</p>
<p>Avignon is always worth visiting any time of year &#8211; a great combination of lively modern city, medieval walled town and Palace, the famous truncated Pont d&#8221;Avignon Bridge across the Rhone (real name Pont St Benazit) &#8211; surrounded by superb Provencal countryside (St Remy de Provence with its market and Van Gogh connections is only a short distance away- plus plenty of great wines and local produce to enjoy.</p>
<p>For more info on Altera Rosa <a href="http://www.alterarosa.com/" target="_blank">see www.alterarosa.com</a></p>
<p>For more info on Avignon see <a href="http://www.avignon-tourisme.com/index-en.htm" target="_blank">www.avignon-tourisme.com</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Avignon.htm?a_aid=13922" target="_blank">Find best hotel rates in Avignon</a></p>
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		<title>Nice Carnaval 2010</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/nice-carnaval-2010.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/nice-carnaval-2010.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 05:26:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[06 Alpes-Maritimes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Carnival]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nice]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ February 12, 2010 to February 28, 2010. ] Nice (06 Alpes-Maritimes, Provence) celebrates its Carnaval from 12-28 February 2010 which has grown into one of  the largest carnivals in the world and is the main winter event on the Riviera with its carnaval parades, flower parades and parade of lights!
The carnival processions, comprising 20 floats telling the story of the “Blue Planet” work <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/nice-carnaval-2010.html">Nice Carnaval 2010</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/nice-carnival.jpg"><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/3a7c560da28c2cc0b6779fd9f0ed264c.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="298" align="left" /></a>Nice (06 Alpes-Maritimes, Provence) celebrates its Carnaval from 12-28 February 2010 which has grown into one of  the largest carnivals in the world and is the main winter event on the Riviera with its carnaval parades, flower parades and parade of lights!</p>
<blockquote><p>The carnival processions, comprising 20 floats telling the story of the “Blue Planet” work their way up to a crescendo of gigantic decorations on the Place Masséna. These giant, colourful parades take place day and night, with entertainment provided by over 1,000 musicians and dancers from across the world.</p>
<p>In a unique setting, on the Promenade des Anglais, the elegant “flower battles” are part of the carnival not to be missed. On floats decorated with the most stunning floral compositions, extravagantly dressed characters throw out mimosas, gerberas, and lilies into the public …</p></blockquote>
<p>Carnival provides locals and visitors with a chance to enjoy themselves before the privations of Lent and certainly brightens up the long dull winter days &#8211; although the Riviera is seldom dreary even in mid-winter.</p>
<p>For more info see<a href="http://www.nicecarnaval.com/en/carnaval/presentation/theme.php" target="_blank"> www.nicecarnaval.com</a></p>
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		<title>Dunkerque Carnival 2010</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/dunkerque-carnival-2010.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/dunkerque-carnival-2010.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 11 Jan 2010 20:42:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[62 Pas-de-Calais]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ferry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Carnival]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dunkerque]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ January 23, 2010 to March 3, 2010. ] Dunkerque (62 Pas de Calais, Nord-Pas-de-Calais) manages to brighten up the miserable nothern French winter with its annual Carnival from 23 January to 6 March 2010
The most famous, the nosiest, the most mental, but also the oldest, is the Dunkerque Carnival. For weeks on end, groups called fisherbands take the measure of each other, confront <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/dunkerque-carnival-2010.html">Dunkerque Carnival 2010</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/dunkerquecarnival.jpg"><img  src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/e2abc44c92f767e29602115ed496be6e.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="168" align="right"/></a>Dunkerque (62 Pas de Calais, Nord-Pas-de-Calais) manages to brighten up the miserable nothern French winter with its annual Carnival from 23 January to 6 March 2010</p>
<blockquote><p>The most famous, the nosiest, the most mental, but also the oldest, is the Dunkerque Carnival. For weeks on end, groups called fisherbands take the measure of each other, confront each other with sarabands and songs, disperse and liven up the town, and finally come together in one huge choir to celebrate their sailors, honour Jean Bart, and claim, with body and voice, their herrings thrown from the top of the belfry.<br />
If you’ve never done Carnival here, you’ve never seen a real carnival !</p></blockquote>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.northernfrance-tourism.com/tourisme/dunkerque-carnival-from-01/23/2010-to-03/06/2010.html" target="_blank">www.northernfrance-tourism.com</a><br />
Of course Dunkerque is directly connected from Dover with Norfolkline Ferries &#8211; but beware that the port (near Loon-Plage) is some 18km from the town centre<br />
<script type="text/javascript">
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		<title>Truffles and Malbec in Cahors!</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/truffles-and-malbec-in-cahors.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/truffles-and-malbec-in-cahors.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:33:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[46 Lot]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cahors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FrenchFood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Markets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lalbenque]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[malbec]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[truffle]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ January 12, 2010; January 19, 2010; January 26, 2010; February 2, 2010; February 9, 2010; February 16, 2010; February 23, 2010; March 2, 2010; ] Winter is the time for truffles in the Perigord and surrounding areas. Georges Vigouroux is one of the main Cahors wine producers in South West France (46 Lot, Midi-Pyrenees) with several major chateaux under its umbrella including Chateau de Mercuès and Chateau de Haute-Serre with some classy rich winesn made from the  Malbec grape.

So bringing <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/truffles-and-malbec-in-cahors.html">Truffles and Malbec in Cahors!</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/hauteserre.jpg"><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/312fa6472f1a8fac91c095afad81f1d2.jpg" alt="chateua de haut serre glass" width="200" height="205" align="right" /></a>Winter is the time for truffles in the Perigord and surrounding areas. Georges Vigouroux is one of the main Cahors wine producers in South West France (46 Lot, Midi-Pyrenees) with several major chateaux under its umbrella including Chateau de Mercuès and Chateau de Haute-Serre with some classy rich winesn made from the  Malbec grape.</p>
<p>So bringing these two classic regional delights together should make for a great combination:</p>
<blockquote><p>&#8230;.. our first exclusive 2010 event in Château de Haute-Serre: <strong>“Truffle &amp; Malbec Tuesdays” from January 12th to March        2nd</strong> in the restaurant La Table de Haute-Serre, with a special menu made of truffles. A perfect pairing between food and our wines has been set up by our 1 Michelin Star chef Philippe Combet. You can extend your stay in the land of the ‘black diamond’ with a visit to <strong>Lalbenque</strong> where the traditional truffle market starts every Tuesday in winter at 2 p.m. in the main street.</p></blockquote>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.hauteserre.fr/en/la-table-de-haute-serre.html" target="_blank"><strong>www.hauteserre.fr</strong></a></p>

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		<title>The Percée du Vin Jaune festival</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/the-percee-du-vin-jaune-festival.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/the-percee-du-vin-jaune-festival.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 Jan 2010 12:51:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[39 Jura]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[71 Saone-et-Loire]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[B&B,Chambres d'Hote]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ February 6, 2010 to February 7, 2010. ] 
At Poligny (39 Jura, Franche Comté) on  6 &#38; 7 February 2010 the Percée du Vin Jaune festival takes place (and every year on the first weekend in February).

The festival celebrates the piercing or tapping of the barrels of the Jura’s famous “Yellow Wine” (vin jaune) which has spent 6 years and 3 months maturing, <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/the-percee-du-vin-jaune-festival.html">The Percée du Vin Jaune festival</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/THE-PERCEE-DU-VIN-JAUNE-WINE-FESTIVAL-WEEKEND.jpg"><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/4ed3b10e4667b2d4ade1930cf731d873.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" align="right" /></a><br />
At Poligny (39 Jura, Franche Comté) on  6 &amp; 7 February 2010 <strong>the Percée du Vin Jaune</strong> festival takes place (and every year on the first weekend in February).</p>
<p>The festival celebrates the piercing or tapping of the barrels of the Jura’s famous “Yellow Wine” <em>(vin jaune)</em> which has spent 6 years and 3 months maturing, to enable the vintage from 6 years ago to be bottled, sold and enjoyed for many, many years to come.</p>
<p>British locals John &amp; Carolyn Scallan run a B&amp;B (Chambres d&#8217;Hote) at Sens-sur-Seille  and have put together a special weeked offer for the Festival which includes a special Jura Discovery dinner and transport to and from the Festival. With their local knowledge of wine, food, markets and things to see this would be a great way of getting the very best out of the Festival and learning more about the local wines and region &#8211; all at a bargain price:-</p>
<blockquote><p>Come and spend the weekend discovering the wines and foods of the Jura region, meet the producers and enjoy the festival, on a specially arranged weekend break, which includes two nights bed and breakfast accommodation in our comfortable B&amp;B, a special Jura Discovery dinner on Fridaynight, and transport to and from the Percée festival on Saturday.<br />
PROGRAMME</p>
<p>Friday evening, arrive and check into your room here in Sens sur Seille. Rooms will be available from 4pm onwards. Freshen up and then at 7pm join us for a special Jura Discovery dinner, with an introduction to different Jura wines from different producers, carefully matched with each course.<br />
Saturday morning, after a copious breakfast, feel free to discover the local market in St Germain du Bois. 11.30am leave for the Percée festival – transport is provided.<br />
6pm return transportation<br />
The evening is free for you to try one of the excellent local restaurants. There are 2 here in the village, and several more in the nearby towns.<br />
Sunday, depart after yet another copious breakfast.<br />
PRICE PER PERSON €82<br />
Price includes 2 nights bed and breakfast accommodation (based on two people sharing a double room) special dinner on Friday night (wines included) and transport to and from the wine festival.<br />
Not included: Transport to Sens sur Seille, entry to the wine festival (€11), other meals.<br />
Additional nights may be booked at a discount to the normal room rate. Please ask for more information.</p></blockquote>
<p>For more info and an enquiry form <a href="http://frenchduck.co.uk/wordpress/france/bb-in-burgundy" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></p>

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		<title>Ice and Snow Sculpture at Valloire</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/ice-and-snow-sculpture-at-valloire.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/ice-and-snow-sculpture-at-valloire.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 05 Jan 2010 05:07:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[73 Savoie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Valloire]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ January 14, 2010 to January 17, 2010. January 19, 2010 to January 22, 2010. ] 

From Thursday 14 January to Sunday 17 January 2010 Valloire in the French Alps  (73 Savoie, Rhone-Alpes) hosts an international Ice Sculpture competition

This is followed  from Tuesday 19 January to Friday 22 January 2010 by the  27th anniversary Snow Sculpture competition with traditional art from Canada.

Valloire is the only place in France to organise this <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/ice-and-snow-sculpture-at-valloire.html">Ice and Snow Sculpture at Valloire</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/icesculptute.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3514" title="ice sculpture at Valloire" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/97a72295173817b4c21870938e0e6d16.jpg" alt="Ice Sculpture" width="300" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>From Thursday 14 January to Sunday 17 January 2010 Valloire in the French Alps  (73 Savoie, Rhone-Alpes) hosts an international Ice Sculpture competition</p>
<p>This is followed  from Tuesday 19 January to Friday 22 January 2010 by the  27th anniversary Snow Sculpture competition with traditional art from Canada.</p>
<p>Valloire is the only place in France to organise this international event.</p>
<p>With good snow conditions in the Alps this year the exhibits may last a little longer than some years</p>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.valloire.net/uk/detail_program_winter.aspx?Id=39" target="_blank">www.valloire.net</a></p>
<p><script type="text/javascript">// <![CDATA[
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		<title>Public Holidays in France</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/public-holidays-in-france.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/public-holidays-in-france.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 01 Jan 2010 09:11:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=3680</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ January 1, 2010 to December 1, 2010. April 4, 2010 to April 5, 2010. May 1, 2010; May 8, 2010; May 13, 2010; May 23, 2010 to May 24, 2010. July 14, 2010; August 15, 2010; November 1, 2010; November 11, 2010; December 25, 2010; ] National Public Holidays in <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/public-holidays-in-france.html">Public Holidays in France</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>2010<span style="color: #800000;"><em> Jours Feriés</em></span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>January 1 (Friday) &#8211; New Year&#8217;s Day (<em>Jour de l&#8217;An</em>)</li>
<li>April 4 (Sunday) &#8211; Easter (<em>Pâques</em>)</li>
<li>April 5 (Monday) &#8211; Easter Monday (<em>Lundi de Pâques</em>)</li>
<li>May 1 (Saturday(- Labour Day (<em>Fête du Travail)</em></li>
<li>May 8 (Saturday) &#8211; WWII Victory Day (<em>Fête de la Victoire 1945</em>)</li>
<li>May 13 (Thursday) &#8211; Ascension Day (<em>Ascension catholique)</em></li>
<li>May 23 (Sunday) &#8211; Whitsun (<em>Pentecôte</em>)</li>
<li>May 24 (Monday) &#8211; Whit Monday (<em>Lundi de Pentecôte</em>)</li>
<li>July14 (Wednesday) &#8211; Bastille Day (<em>Fête Nationale</em>)</li>
<li>August  15 (Sunday)- Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (<em>Assomption</em>)</li>
<li>November 1 (Monday) &#8211; All Saints&#8217; Day (<em>Toussaint</em>)</li>
<li>November 11 (Thursday) &#8211; Armistice Day (<em>Armistice 1918</em>)</li>
<li>December 25 (Saturday) &#8211; Christmas Day (<em>Noël</em>)</li>
</ul>
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		<title>Burgundy celebrates its wine</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/burgundy-celebrates-its-wine.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/burgundy-celebrates-its-wine.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 01 Jan 2010 04:40:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[21 Côte d'Or]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Burgundy wine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wine Festivals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[beaune]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[montrachet]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ January 30, 2010 to January 31, 2010. ] Head for Burgundy at the end of January (30-31 January 2010) to celebrate the patron saint of winemakers - St Vincent. Every year the festival moves between different wine villages (hence St Vincent Tournante - revolving St Vincent) and for 2010 the venue is in one of the top appellations for white Burgundy - Chassagne <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2010/01/burgundy-celebrates-its-wine.html">Burgundy celebrates its wine</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/517f73d936d8bff69065aba0164d5350.jpg" alt="st vincent tournante 2010 poster" width="300" height="428" align="right" />Head for Burgundy at the end of January (30-31 January 2010) to celebrate the patron saint of winemakers &#8211; St Vincent. Every year the festival moves between different wine villages (hence St Vincent Tournante &#8211; revolving St Vincent) and for 2010 the venue is in one of the top appellations for white Burgundy &#8211; Chassagne Montrachet, south of the Côte de Beaune.</p>
<p>Montrachet boasts two Grand Cru vineyards &#8211; Montrachet and Bâtard-Montrachet &#8211; and then there is neighbouring village of Puligny-Montrachet. These vineyards produce some of the most expensive and long-lived white wines in the world &#8211; here the Chardonnay grape is supreme,  although red wine is also made from the Pinot Noir grape.</p>
<p>For the weekend the village opens all its cellars for tastings; food stalls adorn the streets for snails, cheese, charcuterie and other burgundian gastronomic delights; a church service, parade and intronisation (induction)  ceremony &#8211; a lively scene in this otherwise  sleepy wine village.</p>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.st-vincent-tournante.fr/page.php?lang=en" target="_blank">www.st-vincent-tournante.fr</a></p>
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		<title>Watch the Eiffel Tower for New Year 2010</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/watch-the-eiffel-tower-for-new-year-2010.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/watch-the-eiffel-tower-for-new-year-2010.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 30 Dec 2009 19:19:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[75 Paris]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ December 31, 2009; ] Even if you cannot get to Paris for New Year's Eve 2009, you can still watch the special light show which illuminates the Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) as the New Year arrives.
Starting at 11PM, and lasting more that an hour, the Tower will offer a special show: an exceptional and one-of-a-kind lightshow that will disappear <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/watch-the-eiffel-tower-for-new-year-2010.html">Watch the Eiffel Tower for New Year 2010</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3321" title="eiffel tower new year illuminations" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/6036b38974d14d783b0cbb5035bbedd7.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="130" />Even if you cannot get to Paris for New Year&#8217;s Eve 2009, you can still watch the special light show which illuminates the Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) as the New Year arrives.</p>
<blockquote><p>Starting at 11PM, and lasting more that an hour, the Tower will offer a special show: an exceptional and one-of-a-kind lightshow that will disappear with the start of the New Year. After the last regular session, at 11:05PM, the Tower will repeat its light show at 11:30PM,followed by a totally new 20-minute creation using the technical possibilities offered by the new LED lighting to mark the symbolic countdown to 2010.<br />
At midnight the lightshow, a popular highlight of Parisian nights, will provide a sparkling backdrop to the first minutes of the 2010.</p></blockquote>
<p>Visible only from the Trocadero (Seine) side you can participate in the celebrations from the comfort of your computer by going to<br />
<a href="http://31decembreaparis.com/spectacle.php" target="_blank">http://31decembreaparis.com</a></p>
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		<title>Festival of the Bear</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/festival-of-the-bear.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/festival-of-the-bear.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 25 Dec 2009 04:42:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[66 Pyrenees-Orientales]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prats de mollo]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ February 14, 2010; ] The town of Prats de Mollo (66 Pyrenees Orientales, Languedoc-Roussillon), 40 miles southwest of Perpignan, celebrates the Day of the Bear (Fete de l'Ours) on 14 February 2010.

OK - they are not real bears (although Bears have been reintroduced in some parts of the Pyrenees) but young men blacked up and wearing sheepskins as the <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/festival-of-the-bear.html">Festival of the Bear</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2737" title="fete de l'ours" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/c2438b0ab1435a4737e440c32c85fc85.jpg" alt="fete de l'ours" width="300" height="104" />The town of Prats de Mollo (66 Pyrenees Orientales, Languedoc-Roussillon), 40 miles southwest of Perpignan, celebrates the Day of the Bear (Fete de l&#8217;Ours) on 14 February 2010.</p>
<p><span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">OK &#8211; they are not real bears (although Bears have been reintroduced in some parts of the Pyrenees) but young men blacked up and wearing sheepskins as the &#8220;bears&#8221; which are then chased through the town by &#8220;hunters&#8221; &#8211; culminating in music and dancing in the town centre.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">For more info see </span></span><a href="http://www.pratsdemollolapreste.com/" target="_blank">www.pratsdemollolapreste.com</a></p>
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		<title>Avignon at Christmas</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/avignon-at-christmas.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/avignon-at-christmas.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:29:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[84 Vaucluse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Avignon]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ November 26, 2009 to January 2, 2010. ] On Saturday 19 December 2009 the square in front of the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) in Avignon (84 Vaucluse, Provence) will be the setting for a splendid Christmas pageant.  The backdrop of the palace is always impressive and with Christmas spirit abounding this should be worth a visit and a diversion <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/avignon-at-christmas.html">Avignon at Christmas</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img title="palais des papes noel logo" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/64e836995ac5c61266fbea4ab2349959.jpg" alt="palais des papes noel logo" width="300" height="225" align="right" />On Saturday 19 December 2009 the square in front of the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) in Avignon (84 Vaucluse, Provence) will be the setting for a splendid Christmas pageant.  The backdrop of the palace is always impressive and with Christmas spirit abounding this should be worth a visit and a diversion from Christmas shopping in the many specialist shops and boutiques which the city offers.</p>
<blockquote><p>An amazing new event for everyone who wants to enter the legend of Father Christmas. A unique, magical performance in front of the Palace of the Popes, a thirty-minute show featuring special effects, giant sets, fireworks and beautiful lighting to tell a wonderful story which takes place in Provence. After the show, young and old alike can meet Father Christmas and his elves, who will be distributing hot chocolate, Christmas crackers and surprises.</p></blockquote>
<p>Whilst there you can also indulge in the <strong>Christmas Market</strong>(Marché de Noel)  in the Place d&#8217;Horloge (26 November 2009 -2 January 2010 ) with a village of 60+ chalets offering craft jewelery, candles, lamps,  specialities such as local wines, nougat, candied fruits, chocolate, honey, gingerbread, games and wooden toys.  Free entertainment, parades, concerts for children and adults accompanying the event.</p>
<p>Make a weekend break of it with Eurostar and TGV &#8211; <script type="text/javascript">// <![CDATA[
var uri = 'http://impgb.tradedoubler.com/imp?type(js)g(16198440)a(1194892)' + new String (Math.random()).substring (2, 11);
document.write('<sc'+'ript type="text/javascript" src="'+uri+'" charset=""></sc'+'ript>');
// ]]&gt;</script><br />
<a href="http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Avignon.htm?label=fdcom&amp;a_aid=13922">Find best hotel rates in Avignon</a></p>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.provenceguide.co.uk/noel-au-palais-des-papes/avignon/tabid/9465/offreid/965ebce4-1e19-4fc0-9616-ad899ff46c92/animations-on-christmas-details.aspx" target="_blank">www.provenceguide.co.uk</a></p>
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		<title>Lemons at Menton</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/lemons-at-menton.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/lemons-at-menton.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:05:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[06 Alpes-Maritimes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2751</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ February 12, 2010 to March 3, 2010. ]  In the depths of a British winter it is always enticing to look ahead to warm summer days in France. However, you need not wait quite so long if you head to the French Riviera in February - notably to Menton (06 Alpes-Maritimes, Provence) for its annual Lemon Festival (12 February to 3 March <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/lemons-at-menton.html">Lemons at Menton</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img title="menton fete du citron 2009" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/ed9d6219dc746d0cea638b03959a16aa.jpg" alt="menton fete du citron 2009" width="300" height="192" align="right" /> In the depths of a British winter it is always enticing to look ahead to warm summer days in France. However, you need not wait quite so long if you head to the French Riviera in February &#8211; notably to Menton (06 Alpes-Maritimes, Provence) for its annual Lemon Festival (12 February to 3 March 2010).<br />
Every Sunday during the Festival there is a vibrant parade of floats decorated with citrus fruits, bands, dancers in exotic costumes &#8211; along the seafront.</p>
<blockquote><p>A multicoloured festival under the sun! The town comes alive on Sunday mornings, when coaches and cars dance through the streets, an endless farandole of people swaying down the alleyways to the sea. Laughter and joy shine from happy faces everywhere.</p>
<p>Today is a holiday! A wide-eyed child stares in wonderment at the confetti showering from the sea blue sky… Creative masks and sumptuous costumes abound; fanfares twirl and zigzag through the citrus-laden floats to the sound of traditional drums.</p></blockquote>
<p>On Thursday nights there is a Moonlit Parade with more floats, music and fireworks! Then there is are displays of local crafts and stalls offering every variation on citrus fruit.  This area of the French Riviera enjoys a sub-tropical climate with a steady temperature of 6-13° C ,and is  shielded from harmful winds by the nearby mountains.</p>
<p>See <a href="http://www.feteducitron.com/menton-french-riviera-lemon-festival-uk.html#2" target="_blank">www.feteducitron.com</a></p>
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		<title>Open Doors for Jurancon wines</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/open-doors-for-jurancon-wines.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/open-doors-for-jurancon-wines.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 05 Dec 2009 05:00:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[64 Pyrenees Atlantiques]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jurancon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pau]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2728</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ December 13, 2009; 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. ] Jurancon wines come from the foothills of the Pyrenees in South West France just west of Pau (64 Pyrenees Atlantiques, Aquitaine)  - a long way south compared to the Loire, or even Bordeaux. However because of the proximity of the Pyrenees mountains it is an appellation for crisp dry whites and rich dessert wines. The <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/open-doors-for-jurancon-wines.html">Open Doors for Jurancon wines</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/9b86c5f9bf890f915625a16e66a59188.jpg" alt="jurancon poster" width="207" height="305" align="right" />Jurancon wines come from the foothills of the Pyrenees in South West France just west of Pau (64 Pyrenees Atlantiques, Aquitaine)  &#8211; a long way south compared to the Loire, or even Bordeaux. However because of the proximity of the Pyrenees mountains it is an appellation for crisp dry whites and rich dessert wines. The sweet wines are often made from late-harvest grapes (Gros Manseng, Petit Manseng, Courbu), some of which are harvested as late as December.<br />
On <strong>13 December 2009</strong> the winemakers of the appellation throw open their doors (Portes Ouvertes) for the day. 40 domaines will be open for tastings, giving an ample opportunity to explore the region and its wines.<br />
Amongst the domaines I can recommend are <a title="Pau and Jurancon" href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2006/07/pau-and-jurancon.html">Domaine de Cinquau</a> at Artiguelouve and <a href="http://www.cauhape.com" target="_blank">Domaine Cauhapé </a>at Monein.</p>
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		<title>Christmas in Toulouse</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/christmas-in-toulouse.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/christmas-in-toulouse.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:50:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[31 Haut-Garonne]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christmas Market]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[toulouse]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2709</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ December 4, 2009 to December 27, 2009. ] The Place du Capitole is the setting for a magical Christmas Market in Toulouse from 4 - 27 December 2009. Other celebrations take place in the city throughout December with Christmas Lights and parades - real snow however may be in short supply this far <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/12/christmas-in-toulouse.html">Christmas in Toulouse</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2711" title="toulouse at christmas" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/aaab591154ad6235c31db72e94f8b0da.jpg" alt="toulouse at christmas" width="299" height="121" />The Place du Capitole is the setting for a magical Christmas Market in Toulouse from 4 &#8211; 27 December 2009. Other celebrations take place in the city throughout December with Christmas Lights and parades &#8211; real snow however may be in short supply this far south,</p>
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		<title>Harfleur Christmas Market</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/harfleur-christmas-market.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/harfleur-christmas-market.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Nov 2009 05:14:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[76 Seine-Maritime]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christmas Market]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[harfleur]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[le ha]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Le Havre]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2699</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ December 4, 2009 to December 6, 2009. ] The Christmas Market at Harfleur (76 Seine-Maritime, Normandy) on the outskirts of Le Havre takes place between 4 and 6 December 2009 in the middle of the old town (www.lehavretourisme.com) with the usual collection of music, carols, markets and processions including a distinctive Father Christmas (pere <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/harfleur-christmas-market.html">Harfleur Christmas Market</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/9395b0e1b34e1d83f99ef2d17cb5d080.jpg" alt="harfleur christmas market poster" width="212" height="300" align="right" />The Christmas Market at Harfleur (76 Seine-Maritime, Normandy) on the outskirts of Le Havre takes place between 4 and 6 December 2009 in the middle of the old town (<a href="http://www.lehavretourisme.com/sorties-citadines-le-havre/detail.asp?idoi=FMANOR0760000998#" target="_blank">www.lehavretourisme.com</a>) with the usual collection of music, carols, markets and processions including a distinctive Father Christmas (pere noel)</p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-2701" title="harfleur pere noel" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/534e61aa93d7eeb6d4333fa7080f510b.jpg" alt="harfleur pere noel" width="155" height="300" /></p>
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		<title>Caen Christmas Market</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/caen-christmas-market.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/caen-christmas-market.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 28 Nov 2009 05:37:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[14 Calvados]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christmas Market]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[caen]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2705</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ November 28, 2009 to December 24, 2009. ] [caption id="attachment_2706" align="alignright" width="200" caption="© Guichard / Office de Tourisme de Caen"][/caption]

Caen (14 Calvados, Normandie) holds its Christmas Market from 28 November to 24 December 2009. This is a traditional Christmas market of wooden chalets in the centre of the town (Place du Theatre)
....over 50 stands selling with an outstanding array of Christmas goodies and <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/caen-christmas-market.html">Caen Christmas Market</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Caen (14 Calvados, Normandie) holds its Christmas Market from 28 November to 24 December 2009. This is a traditional Christmas market of wooden chalets in the centre of the town (Place du Theatre)</p>
<blockquote><p>&#8230;.over 50 stands selling with an outstanding array of Christmas goodies and artisan produce. This cosmopolitan  market welcomes sellers from around the world with products such as nativity figurines, foie gras, Christmas desserts, pain d’épices (like gingerbread), hippocraswine, traditional waffles, baby clothes, plants, art, clothing, leather goods and jewellery. The charmingly festive atmosphere really makes this a Christmas event to be relished and it is not by chance that Father Christmas himself has chosen Caen as his home for the entire duration of the market!!</p></blockquote>
<p>See <a href="www.tourisme.caen.fr" target="_blank">www.tourisme.caen.fr</a><br />
<a href="http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Caen.htm?label=fdcom&#038;a_aid=13922" target="_blank">Find best hotel rates in Caen</a></p>
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		<title>Le Grand Tasting in Paris</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/le-grand-tasting-in-paris.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/le-grand-tasting-in-paris.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Nov 2009 17:11:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[75 Paris]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bordeaux wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Burgundy wine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Champagnes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Corisca wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jura Savoie wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Languedoc Roussillon wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Loire Valley /Centre Wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Provence Wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rhone wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South West France wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wine Festivals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wines of France]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2695</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ December 4, 2009 to December 5, 2009. ] 4-5 December 2009 in the heart of Paris offers an opportunity to taste and learn about wines from many well-known names and most wine regions of France.

Over the 2 days you can taste wines direct from the producer and attend numerous masterclasses to enhance your appreciaton of wine. Unusually there is also a selection of <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/le-grand-tasting-in-paris.html">Le Grand Tasting in Paris</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-2696" title="legrand tasting banner 2009" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/171caef3b89d365712f7b588d31d0684.jpg" alt="legrand tasting banner 2009" width="300" height="85" />4-5 December 2009 in the heart of Paris offers an opportunity to taste and learn about wines from many well-known names and most wine regions of France.</p>
<p>Over the 2 days you can taste wines direct from the producer and attend numerous masterclasses to enhance your appreciaton of wine. Unusually there is also a selection of Italian wines available to try. Bordeaux Chateau such as <a href="http://www.laroze.com/" target="_blank">Chateau Laroze</a> (St Emilion) will be there as well as producers from Alsace, Burgundy, Champagne, Corsica, Loire and Rhône etc.</p>
<p>Carrousel du Louvre , 99 rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris &#8211; see <a href="http://www.grandtasting.com" target="_blank">www.grandtasting.com</a></p>
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		<title>Goat Eaters Brotherhood!</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/goat-eaters-brotherhood.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/goat-eaters-brotherhood.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:47:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[23 Creuse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FrenchFood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South West France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bellegarde]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[goat]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2676</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ November 28, 2009; ] At Bellegarde-en-Marche (23 Creuse Limousin), the locals are so keen on goat that a Confrerie (or brotherhood) of Goat Meat Eaters (la confrérie des mangeurs de chèvres) has been established  to celebrate the local delicacy. However it is thought that the tradition goes back more to the use of sharpened goat horn to fight off <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/goat-eaters-brotherhood.html">Goat Eaters Brotherhood!</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2678" title="bellegarde-en-marche coat of arms" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/b1ce9b9aa68596d7d5d49996bcacd3d2.jpg" alt="bellegarde-en-marche coat of arms" width="123" height="110" />At Bellegarde-en-Marche (23 Creuse Limousin), the locals are so keen on goat that a Confrerie (or brotherhood) of Goat Meat Eaters (la confrérie des mangeurs de chèvres) has been established  to celebrate the local delicacy. However it is thought that the tradition goes back more to the use of sharpened goat horn to fight off the perfidious English than the animal&#8217;s meat.</p>
<p>In 2009 the Confrerie celebrates on Saturday 28 November with a parade of goats through the village and a banquet based on goat meat! The village  lies in a very rural part of France between Clermont Ferrand (50 miles)  and Limoges  (60 miles).</p>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.tourisme-creuse.com/rubrique.php?id_rubrique=181&amp;produit=220000641&amp;categorie=fetes" target="_blank">www.tourisme-creuse.com</a></p>
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		<title>Going Organic &#8211; Villandry Gardens</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/going-organic-villandry-gardens.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/going-organic-villandry-gardens.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:08:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[37 Indre-et-Loire]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gardens]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Heritage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[villandry]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2643</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ July 2, 2010 to July 3, 2010. September 25, 2010 to September 26, 2010. ] 

One of the most important and well-known gardens in France at Chateau de Villandry(37 Indre-et-Loire, Centre) has gone organic. No more synthetic seeds, chemical fertilisers or pesticides etc - just environmentally friendly insects and techniques.

In the heart of the Loire Valley on the south bank of the Loire west of Tours, the Chateau is well <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/going-organic-villandry-gardens.html">Going Organic &#8211; Villandry Gardens</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2644" title="gardens at chateau de villandry" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/92d02f805733bf633cf6648653f00d21.jpg" alt="gardens at chateau de villandry" width="300" height="109" /></p>
<p>One of the most important and well-known gardens in France at Chateau de Villandry(37 Indre-et-Loire, Centre) has gone organic. No more synthetic seeds, chemical fertilisers or pesticides etc &#8211; just environmentally friendly insects and techniques.</p>
<p>In the heart of the Loire Valley on the south bank of the Loire west of Tours, the Chateau is well worth a detour.</p>
<p>The 16th-17th Century chateau and its gardens host &#8220;Kitchen Garden Days&#8221; (<em><strong>Les Journées du Potager</strong>) </em>every September (25-26 September 2010) and the Night of 1000 Lights  <strong><em>(Les Nuits des Mille Feux) </em></strong>when the gardens are illuminated with candles each July (2-3 July 2010), both of which offer enhanced opportunities to view the spectacular gardens.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.chateauvillandry.com" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Château de Villandry</span></a><br />
37510 VILLANDRY</p>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="overflow: hidden; position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 81px; width: 1px; height: 1px;">
<h3>Les Journées du Potager</h3>
</div>
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		<title>Lille&#8217;s Christmas Market 2009</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/lilles-christmas-market-2009.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/lilles-christmas-market-2009.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:12:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[59 Nord]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christmas Market]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[li]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lille]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2688</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ November 18, 2009 to December 30, 2009. ] Lille's Christmas Market officially takes place from 18 November to 30 December 2009 (although the Big Wheel (la Grand'Roue) was still being erected over the weekend of 21/22 Novemberm but the hutted Christmas village.
In the heart of winter, Lille sparkles and glows with "joie de vivre"! With the wave of a magic wand, the city <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/11/lilles-christmas-market-2009.html">Lille&#8217;s Christmas Market 2009</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-2690" title="lille09" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/d8b45982a753e840887842557b33f871.jpg" alt="lille09" width="300" height="76" />Lille&#8217;s Christmas Market officially takes place from 18 November to 30 December 2009 (although the Big Wheel <em>(la Grand&#8217;Roue)</em> was still being erected over the weekend of 21/22 Novemberm but the hutted Christmas village.</p>
<blockquote><p>In the heart of winter, Lille sparkles and glows with &#8220;joie de vivre&#8221;! With the wave of a magic wand, the city takes on a festive atmosphere and welcomes you to a winter wonderland. On Place Rihour, more than 80 chalets teem with gift ideas, nativity figurines, Christmas decorations and festive food. You can find regional specialities here, and you can also find arts and crafts from Russia, Poland, and Québec, as well as products from Native America. And that&#8217;s not to forget the gingerbread and other delicacies which you can take away or eat on the spot with a glass of mulled wine&#8230;<br />
On the Main Square, amidst the sumptuous decorations and as Christmas carols fill the air, the Big Wheel turns majestically. Its height of 50 metres ensures guests have a stunning view of the city.</p></blockquote>
<p>See our other articles <a title="Le weekend in…. Lille" href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/le-weekend-in-lille.html">Le weekend in…. Lille</a> and <a title="Lille’s Christmas celebrations" href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2008/11/lilles-christmas-celebrations.html">Lille’s Christmas celebrations</a><br />
For more info see <a href="http://www.noel-a-lille.com/index_anglais.html" target="_blank">www.noel-a-lille.com</a></p>
<p>If you have time and inclination then it is worth a visit to la Piscine at nearby Roubaix, which is a converted municipal art deco- swimming pool which retains part of the pool as a centre piece, whilst the old changing cubicles hold exhibits. The building houses the Museum of Science and Industry which celebrates the town&#8217;s industrial heritage when it was a centre for the textile industry &#8211; see www.roubaix-lapiscine.com/</p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-2693" title="roubaix piscine" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/76077d133d3ca14eb8e2c3a60685ad81.jpg" alt="roubaix piscine" width="225" height="300" /></p>
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		<title>Tour de France 2010</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/tour-de-france-2010.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 18 Oct 2009 04:30:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[33 Gironde]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[51 Marne]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[52 Haute Marne]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[64 Pyrenees Atlantiques]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[65 Hautes-Pyrenees]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[75 Paris]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bordeaux Landes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Languedoc-Roussillon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Roads/Autoroutes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cycling]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ July 3, 2010 to July 25, 2010. ] The route for the 2010 version of the Tour de France has been announced. The race starts in Rotterdam on 3 July 2010 and after a few days in Holland and Belgium the route takes in Champagne and Burgundy before heading for the Alps. Then southwest through the Côtes du Rhone before skirting the southern <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/tour-de-france-2010.html">Tour de France 2010</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/5626790a61e33a867208d6d16edd9399.jpg" alt="Tour de France map 2010" width="291" height="329" align="right" />The route for the 2010 version of the Tour de France has been announced. The race starts in Rotterdam on 3 July 2010 and after a few days in Holland and Belgium the route takes in Champagne and Burgundy before heading for the Alps. Then southwest through the Côtes du Rhone before skirting the southern edge of the Massif Central, down through Languedoc-Roussillon before several gruelling days on the Pyrenees. One of the highlights will be on Saturday 24 July 2010 when there is an individual time trial from Place des Quinconces in Bordeaux up to Pauillac along the Route des Chateaux. In racing terms this is an important day as its is the penultimate day after 3 weeks on the road immediately before the Grand Finish in Paris on the Sunday 25 July 2010</p>
<p>From a spectator point of view it promises a good day out in the Medoc &#8211; as although you miss the momentary flash of 100+ professional cyclists zooming past, you get to see ech rider individually and can make a whole day of it with the race taking 2 hours or so to pass.</p>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.letour.fr/us/homepage_horscourseTDF.html" target="_blank">www.letour.fr</a></p>
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		<title>France Show 2010</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/france-show-2010.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/france-show-2010.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2009 04:06:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Visit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holday ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Markets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South West France wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[london]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ January 8, 2010 to January 10, 2010. ] 
For an early taste of France in 2010 then head to Earls Court in London between 8-10 January 2010 for the France Show 2010. And until 1 December 2009 you can pre-register for FREE TICKETS.
What better way to rediscover the magic of France than by immersing yourself in the colours, the culture and the party <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/france-show-2010.html">France Show 2010</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thefranceshow.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/684cab6880b5aa4fd2ac1be8b113e329.jpg" alt="france show LOGO" width="290" height="68" align="left"/></a><br />
For an early taste of France in 2010 then head to Earls Court in London between 8-10 January 2010 for the France Show 2010. And until 1 December 2009 you can pre-register for <a href="http://www.thefranceshow.com/" target="_blank">FREE TICKETS.</a></p>
<blockquote><p>What better way to rediscover the magic of France than by immersing yourself in the colours, the culture and the party atmosphere that is the France Show 2010 &#8211; the UK&#8217;s largest celebration of all that makes France such a special place.</p></blockquote>
<p>The Show includes a wide variety of French themes including cookery demonstrations; Travel, Language and French property seminars; the UK’s largest French property exhibition;  Top French restaurants to eat at and a French Market selling produce and fashions,</p>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.thefranceshow.com/" target="_blank">www.thefranceshow.com/</a></p>
<div style="width:300px;"><iframe src="http://www.thefranceshow.com/signupwidget.aspx?partner=widget" frameborder="0" width="300" scrolling="No" height="450"></iframe></div>
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		<title>Le weekend in&#8230;. Lille</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/le-weekend-in-lille.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/le-weekend-in-lille.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:13:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[59 Nord]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christmas Market]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ferry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FrenchFood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Heritage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Paris North East]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rhone wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Roads/Autoroutes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South West France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South West France wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Train]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wine Festivals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lille]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tourcoing]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ November 20, 2009 to November 23, 2009. ] With such easy access from the UK by road or Eurostar Lille is a must to visit all year, and remains one of my favourite winter weekends. The combination of modern shopping malls and the nearby Vieux Lille (old town) offer something for everyone,
Where to stay?
Lille has many hotels at all levels of price and <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/le-weekend-in-lille.html">Le weekend in&#8230;. Lille</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/8f7ec8a4ec2fcb5cbda5d4731b606816.jpg" alt="lille chambre de commerce" width="250" height="385" align="right" />With such easy access from the UK by road or Eurostar Lille is a must to visit all year, and remains one of my favourite winter weekends. The combination of modern shopping malls and the nearby Vieux Lille (old town) offer something for everyone,</p>
<h3><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Where to stay?</strong></span></h3>
<p>Lille has many hotels at all levels of price and luxury.<a href="http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Hotel_des_Tours_Lille.htm?label=fdcom&amp;a_aid=13922" target="_blank">Hotel des Tours</a> in the middle of the attractive Old Town or <a href="http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Brueghel_Hotel_Lille.htm?label=fdcom&amp;a_aid=13922" target="_blank">Le Brueghel</a> very French and centrally situated in a quiet, pedestrian area near the station.</p>
<p>For a more intimate weekend options include interesting B&amp;Bs such as <a href="http://frenchduck.co.uk/wordpress/heritage-history/idyllic-bb-near-lille" target="_blank">Alix&#8217;s Garden</a> and <a href="http://frenchduck.co.uk/wordpress/regions/paris-calais-france/bb-on-a-canal-barge-near-lille" target="_blank">Canal Barge  Fantasia.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Lille.htm?label=fdcom&amp;a_aid=13922" target="_blank">Get the best rates for other hotels in Lille</a></p>
<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/f2b267b1488cdf74509c81088197f27b.jpg" alt="ecume des mers" width="150" height="150" align="left" />Where to eat – recommended </strong></span>Again there is no shortage of eateries in Lille offering cuisines both local and international.</p>
<p>Two favourites, one for meat, the other for fish are <strong><a href="http://www.assiettedumarche.com/restaurant.php" target="_blank">l&#8217;Assiette du Marché</a> </strong>(market plate) in rue de la Monnaie in Vieux Lille  and   <a href="http://www.ecume-des-mers.com/" target="_blank"><strong>L&#8217;Écume des Mers</strong></a> (sea spume) in rue des Pas close to the Grand Place. Both offer high quality dishes with excellent service.</p>
<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Where to eat – gourme</strong>t</span></p>
<p><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/da4a3e1c09d65e52187107280d7b1ac8.jpg" alt="mosaic- l'Huitriere" width="150" height="141" align="left" /></p>
<p>Without doubt the finest dining experience in Lille must be <a href="http://www.huitriere.fr/" target="_blank"><strong>l&#8217;Huitrière</strong></a> (oystery) on the edge of Vieux Lille  (3 rue des Chats Bossus) &#8211; superb art deco setting and top notch fish (oysters, lobsters,  turbot etc) &#8211; certainly not cheap but a gastronomic delight! 4 Michelin knives and forks. You can also window shop (and buy) fresh fish and other delicacies in the front of the building.</p>
<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Where to eat – value for money </strong></span></p>
<p>There are plenty of more modest restaurants in Lille to suit all pockets &#8211; a typical <img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/c090212ad01232b48dc9ee5ab515f67d.jpg" alt="aux moules logo" width="150" height="131" align="right" />bustling brasserie is<strong> <a href="http://www.auxmoules.com/" target="_blank">Aux Moules</a> </strong>(mussels) in rue de Bethune &#8211; a pedestrianised street  in the city centre.  They offer a full menu including their specialty &#8211; and a good Moules Frites can be unbeatable.</p>
<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Local wine/drink -</strong></span></p>
<p><strong> </strong> The proximity of Belgium ensures that Beer is a local favourite. Many bars offer a wide range of interesting beers from Northern France, Belgium and beyond &#8211; and there are numerous micro-breweries in the centre of Lille such as <a href="http://www.les3brasseurs.com/" target="_blank">Les 3 Brasseurs </a>(3 brewers) in place de la Gare opposite Lille Flandres railway station.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #800000;">Local food:</span></strong><br />
Fish features strongly in this Flemish part of France &#8211; <strong>Moules Frites</strong> (Mussels and Chips) is probably the most familiar local specialty &#8211; others not so recognisable &#8211; <strong>Carbonnade flamande</strong> (small chunks of beef stewed in beer), <strong>waterzoï</strong> (poultry or fish in a creamy sauce, served with baby vegetables) and <strong>potjevleesch</strong> (literally “small potted meat”, a white meat terrine in aspic).<br />
<strong><span style="color: #800000;">Local markets</span></strong></p>
<p>The <strong>Wazemmes Market</strong> in place de la Nouvelle Aventure takes place on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday mornings with food, flowers, fabrics and exotic products. Ine of the largest markets in France, it can also be one of the liveliest (up to 50,000 visitors some Sundays). Colourful, with a &#8220;Soho&#8221; atmosphere, you&#8217;ll often hear an accordion being played.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #800000;">Shopping</span></strong></p>
<p>No shortage of shopping opportunies in the City Centre &#8211; with several malls &#8211; e.g. the Euralille mall near the stations and may interesting small shops in the old town. For fine food shopping  the <a href="http://www.meert.fr/default.php?pageId=918" target="_blank">Meert  Café and Patisserie </a>on rue Esquermoise home of the <strong>Meert Waffle</strong>, and Philippe Olivier  in rue du Cure St Etienne) for an excellent selection of bread and pastries.</p>
<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Must see:</strong></span></p>
<p>Vieux Lille, the Grand Place. the Chambre de Commece, the Hotel de Ville and  the fine flemish buildings around the Place du Theatre.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #800000;">A bit of culture: </span></strong> The <strong><a href="http://www.pba-lille.fr/spip.php?rubrique31">Palais  des Beaux Arts</a></strong> in place de la Republique houses prestigious collections of European painting (Rubens, Van Dyck, Goya, Delacroix…) and offers some peace away from the bustle and rumble of the city centre.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #800000;">For a walk: </span></strong>For all that it is big modern city, it is worth a stroll around  <a href="http://www.lilletourism.com/monuments-1-0-52-gb.html" target="_blank">Vauban Citadelle</a>, just a short walk beyond the city centre. This impressive star-shaped castle on rue Vauban was built by Napoleon&#8217;s military archictect in the 17th century. As it is still used as a military barracks, you need to check with the local tourist office for those dates when it is open to the public. But there is the Vauban garden which the public can access at all times for a stroll.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #800000;"><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/302c0a6d5c133cf04ae7e063b0b16006.jpg" alt="lille carousel" width="300" height="400" aling="right"/>For the children:</span></strong>Bring the children for the annual Christmas market when the Grand Place is transformed into a snowy Cavern with twinking lights and a Carousel &#8211; plus a busy Christmas market in nearby Place Rihour -full of seasonal cheer. (18 November &#8211; 31 December 2009)</p>
<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Getting there:</strong></span></p>
<p>Easy &#8211; being so close to the English Channel. Travel time to Lille by road/ferry &#8211; just an hour from Calais, less from Dunkerque &#8211; see <a title="P&amp;O to Calais" href="http://clkuk.tradedoubler.com/click?p(10166)a(1194892)g(133934)" target="_blank">P&amp;O to Calais</a><img src="http://impgb.tradedoubler.com/imp?type(inv)g(133934)a(1194892)" alt="" /> and <a title="Norfolkline to Dunkerque" href="http://clkuk.tradedoubler.com/click?p(60281)a(1194892)g(16886286)" target="_blank">Norfolkline to Dunkerque</a><img src="http://impgb.tradedoubler.com/imp?type(inv)g(16886286)a(1194892)" alt="" />.</p>
<p>Or take the <a title="Eurostar to Lille" href="http://clkuk.tradedoubler.com/click?p(40263)a(1194892)g(16934676)" target="_blank">Eurostar to Lille</a><img src="http://impgb.tradedoubler.com/imp?type(inv)g(16934676)a(1194892)" alt="" /></p>
<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Getting around:</strong></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.transpole.fr/" target="_blank">Transpole</a> offers a comprehensive public transport network with a modern Metro system and <strong>2 tram lines</strong> which cross the city centre and serve both railway stations. However most of the main points of interest are within walking distance of the city centre.</p>
<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Staying longer?:</strong></span>The city is close to many of the First World War battlegrounds &#8211; e.g. Ypres and Paschendaele just over the border. Brussels and Waterloo are a bit further &#8211; and a favourite of mine is the art deco swinning pool at Tourcoing (part of the Lille conurbation) <strong>La Piscine</strong> &#8211; converted into an impressive Museum of Art and Industry &#8211; and it is on the Metro line about 40 minutes from Lille City Centre.</p>
<h3><span style="color: #800000;"><strong><strong>When to go?</strong></strong></span></h3>
<p>Lively throughout the year, but you might consider</p>
<p><strong>La Grande Braderie de Lille</strong> &#8211; the biggest flea market in Europe which runs across a weekend in early September each year with100 km of stands, 10,000 vendors and 1 to 2 million visitors! &#8211; but beware that the City gets very busy and the traffic is impossible on the Braderie weekend.</p>
<p><strong>Lille Wine Fair</strong> of the independent winegrowers (Vignerons Indepenents) which is held mid-November (20-23 November 2009) &#8211; with the opportunity to taste and buy from winemakers from all across France.<a href="https://www.google.com/calendar/event?action=TEMPLATE&amp;tmeid=azdybmVucWIzbjJmcjZ0MjZiOWY5bGczZXMgY2k4MWJhNnJtbHV0aHFxbDQzcjI2MTUyaTRAZw&amp;tmsrc=Y2k4MWJhNnJtbHV0aHFxbDQzcjI2MTUyaTRAZ3JvdXAuY2FsZW5kYXIuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbQ" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.google.com/calendar/images/ext/gc_button1_en-GB.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Lille Christmas Market </strong>- late November to New Year &#8211; Carousel, Christmas Village and a real feel of Christmas (18 November &#8211; 30 December 2009)</p>
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		<title>Banyuls wine festival</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/banyuls-wine-festival.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Oct 2009 20:50:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[66 Pyrenees-Orientales]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Banyuls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Markets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[music]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://frenchduck.com/latest/?p=2596</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[[ October 6, 2009 to October 11, 2009. ] The winemakers of Banyuls (66 Pyrenees-Orientales, Languedoc-Roussillon) celebrate their Fete des Vendanges from 5-11 October 2009.
An unmissable wine-themed rendez-vous involving encounters with winemakers, exhibitions, lectures, cultural activities and traditional local markets...
For example on Saturday 10 October there is a traditional market featuring local produce in the streets of the town centre;music; the  pressing of <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/10/banyuls-wine-festival.html">Banyuls wine festival</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-2597" title="banyuls" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/43b8982fb91fd07bb51358099ff88bce.jpg" alt="banyuls" width="150" height="150" />The winemakers of Banyuls (66 Pyrenees-Orientales, Languedoc-Roussillon) celebrate their <strong>Fete des Vendanges</strong> from 5-11 October 2009.</p>
<blockquote><p>An unmissable wine-themed rendez-vous involving encounters with winemakers, exhibitions, lectures, cultural activities and traditional local markets&#8230;</p></blockquote>
<p>For example on Saturday 10 October there is a traditional market featuring local produce in the streets of the town centre;music; the  pressing of the grape harvest by schoolchildren; taste workshops and an evening firework dispay.Festivities will end with a flourish on Sunday 11 October with tasting of the 2008 vintage, the arrival of the grape harvest by sea and traditional music and singing. &#8211; and a barbecue on the beach.</p>
<p>Banyuls AOC is a sweet fortified dessert wine made from older vines on the foothills of the Pyrenees close to the border with Spain. It is made mainly from the Grenache grape.</p>
<p>For more info on Banyuls wine see <a href="http://www.banyuls.com/pg/prd.php?Rub=201&amp;Ap=2&amp;Ty=26" target="_blank">www.banyuls.com</a> and on the <a href="http://en.sunfrance.com/organize_your_stay/events/wine_and_food/winemakers_festival_at_banyuls_sur_mer" target="_blank">wine festival</a></p>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="overflow: hidden; position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 59px; width: 1px; height: 1px;">Festivities will end with a flourish on <strong>Sunday 11th October</strong> with <strong>tasting of the 2008 vintage</strong>, the arrival of the grape harvest by sea and traditional music and singing.</div>
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		<title>White night in Paris</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/09/white-night-in-paris.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:10:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[75 Paris]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Art]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ October 3, 2009; ] The city of Paris flings open the doors to celebrate contemmporary art throughout the night for its Nuit Blanche (White Night) on Saturday 3 October 2009.
Paris plays host to Nuit Blanche with trails starting in the North of the City, with the artistic installations at the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. These works will cast new light <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/09/white-night-in-paris.html">White night in Paris</a></p>
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/nuit-blanche.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-2568" title="nuit blanche poster" src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/434c08a2764e6af168c8198d1cfc5eef.jpg" alt="nuit blanche poster" width="300" height="389" /></a>The city of Paris flings open the doors to celebrate contemmporary art throughout the night for its Nuit Blanche (White Night) on Saturday 3 October 2009.</p>
<blockquote><p>Paris plays host to Nuit Blanche with trails starting in the North of the City, with the artistic installations at the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. These works will cast new light on the Jean Jaurès Gymnasium, the Pailleron Swimming Pool and the CENTQUATRE artist hub. The courtyards located in the Marais and the Châtelet district will form the centre of the event. From Notre-Dame, a beautiful pedestrian trail will take you towards numerous places located between Luxembourg and the Quartier Latin on the left bank, normally closed to the public.</p></blockquote>
<p>The three trails (Buttes-Chaumont, the centre of Paris and the Latin Quarter) are all connected throughout the night &#8211; e.g. metro lines 11 and 14 will run a frequent service all night &#8211; free between 2.00am and 5.30am.</p>
<p>For more info see <a href="http://www.paris.fr/portail/english/Portal.lut?page_id=8118&amp;document_type_id=2&amp;document_id=72072&amp;portlet_id=19237" target="_blank">www.paris.fr</a><br />
<a href="http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Paris.htm?label=fdcom&#038;a_aid=13922" target="_blank">Find the best rates for Hotels in Paris</a><br />
<a href="http://clkuk.tradedoubler.com/click?p(40263)a(1194892)g(16934676)" title="Eurostar Tickets from UK to Paris" target="_blank">Eurostar Tickets from UK to Paris</a><img src="http://impgb.tradedoubler.com/imp?type(inv)g(16934676)a(1194892)" /><br />
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		<title>Fourme de Monbrison</title>
		<link>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/09/fourme-de-monbrison.html</link>
		<comments>http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/09/fourme-de-monbrison.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2009 18:05:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>le duck</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[42 Loire]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cheese]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cotes du Forez]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FrenchFood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rhone wines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South West France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wine Festivals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[clermont ferrand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[montbrison]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[st etienne]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[[ October 2, 2009 to October 4, 2009. ] 
Another interesting cheese seldom seen in the UK is the Fourme de Montbrison which comes from an area known as Le Forez (42 Loire, Rhone-Alpes) between St Etienne and Clermont Ferrand. Similar to the Fourme d'Ambert this is a mild, soft blue cheese made from cows milk with its own AOC appellation.
The Fourme de Montbrison <p>.........Continue reading <a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/archives/2009/09/fourme-de-monbrison.html">Fourme de Monbrison</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/cotesduforez.jpg"><img src="http://frenchduck.com/latest/wp-content/plugins/image-shadow/cache/3b485b5b0cc36546de237287ef345a33.jpg" alt="cotes du forez poster" width="300" height="407" align="left" /></a><br />
Another interesting cheese seldom seen in the UK is the Fourme de Montbrison which comes from an area known as Le Forez (42 Loire, Rhone-Alpes) between St Etienne and Clermont Ferrand. Similar to the Fourme d&#8217;Ambert this is a mild, soft blue cheese made from cows milk with its own AOC appellation.</p>
<blockquote><p>The Fourme de Montbrison has only a small number of mould veins throughout and has a reddish rind. Its flavour is very mild with light nut and mushroom flavours.</p></blockquote>
<p>On the weekend of 2-3-4 October 2009 the town of Montbrison celebrates its &#8220;Journées de la Fourme&#8221;</p>
<p>To accompany this mild cheese the local Cotes du Forez AOC wine which is made from Gamay would make a good choice &#8211; and this is also likely to be available to taste on the &#8220;Cheese Days&#8221;</p>
<p>For more info on Le Forez see <a href="http://www.foreztourisme.fr/" target="_blank">www.foreztourisme.fr/</a></p>
<p>For more info on the cheese see <a href="http://www.fourme-montbrison.com" target="_blank">www.fourme-montbrison.com</a></p>
<p>For more info on the Cotes dy Forez AOC wine see <img src="file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/john/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-2.jpg" alt="" /><a href="http://cotesduforez.fr" target="_blank">http://cotesduforez.fr</a></p>

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