Fête des Voisins

Earlier this week, we had a brand new Parisian experience. It was la Fête des Voisins, also known as European Neighbours Day. This day was initiated in the 17th arrondissement of Paris in 1999, aimed at "fostering community cohesion". Our building is one of those little communities, apparently, that take the opportunity of La Fête des Voisins to get to know each other and catch up. Since our troubles witth the gardien, we thought it a good idea to participate. And it worked. First of all, we finally got round to introduce ourselves to these anonymous neighbours we greet in the court. And we even got some nice chit-chat with the gardien and her husband.
Surprisingly, I think we were one of the few immeubles en fête, because none of my Parisian colleagues had ever heard of this. which is a shame, because to me, every excuse to have a little fun, is a good one. So, note in your calenders for next year: the last Tuesday in May is la Fête des Voisins.