Bastille Day - a national holiday for lunatiques

The French party all day and we were lucky enough to join them. Watched an air show from the comfort of Lobelia’s deck. Visited the park where French military and air force hardware was on show. Lounged on the town square beach whilst the boys had fun on various obstacles both wet and dry. 

The beach seems rather incongruous next to the 16th century gothic town hall with its 37 bell carillion. And nearby it the 9th century basilica which is still undergoing repairs for the damage it received in World War 1.

Late in the evening we followed a samba beat band as they processed through the town to a rendez-vous with several other bands and troupes of majorettes. Around us children and adults alike were gleefully setting off fire-crackers and fireworks. The noise was incredible and the danger level rising.

Retreated to the canalside with the rest of France to watch the fireworks display at 11pm. Once again fire crackers and fireworks exploded all around and only stopped thanks to the fireworks display itself.