My thanks to the department of Herault for an invitation to visit some of the many places of beauty and interest in this department.
A group of writers and journalists visited the region 25 km north of Montpellier last Friday and met some of the craftsmen who keep alive some of the arts and crafts which have been important in this region for many centuries.
I will be writing in detail about the individual visits – here are few quick photos from Friday October 29 2010.
Cassan Christmas Cracker Fair – Saturday 27 Nov and Sunday 28th November
Started as a way for Brits to get their Christmas Crackers 5 years ago, the event has grown each year.
The event has become so successful that this year it will be run over 2 days, which the organisers hope will cut down the crowds. “Last year we had just over 4,000 visitors – a 30% increase – and it was almost too many” said Robin Hicks, the organiser.
Christmas Cracker Fair in Cassan Herault Languedoc France
“We hope the 2 day event will spread the crowds, as the 11th century chapel isn’t really designed for such large numbers”
Last year 45% of the visitors were French, who seem to have taken to the Cracker Fair – described on local TV as “The Christmas event in L’Herault”
About a half of the 120 exhibitors are French – the rest being drawn from 11 countries.
Apart from the trade exhibitors there will be local organisations promoting their charities and a range of entertainers at the weekend event showcasing their work to a large audience.
“This year we expect to top 5,000 visitors which will generate funds to run and develop the local community based charity website WoW – www.heraultwhaton.info
Come on in – the water’s lovely – For me it is too cold even in the hot summer months, but for guests today we pulled back the pool cover and in they went.
I can offer -swimming at Christmas for anyone interested! Hot chestnuts and drinks by the pool – the wonder of living in the south of France.
