aixcentric

The year of gastronomy finally comes to an end.  Marseille’s Vieux Port will be the place to be for the ‘Grand Spectacle de Cloture’  with what sounds like an impressive fireworks display: starting at 22:30, Friday 13th, fireworks will be shooting into the skies from the port, the Digue du Large, Fort Saint-Nicolas and Notre Dame de la Garde.  Recommended spot to watch is the quai du Port (near the Mairie).  Beforehand, there will be music and free tastings in the Canebiere.  If you are planning to go, do look at details of the extensive travel restrictions which include tunnels autoroute, parking and metro closures.  https://www.myprovence.fr/article/mpg2019-un-feu-d-artifice-epoustouflant-le-13-decembre

What a shame it’s so late – difficult for families I would have thought.

Maybe the ‘Lumieres Legendaires de Chine’, the end-of-year event at the Parc du Palais Longchamp would be a safer bet.  Running from 18-23:00 til Jan 19th, giant lanterns will highlight the art of ancient China showing mythical animals, oriental landscapes and sculptures…using 8km of silk lit by 25,000 LED bulbs. 300 sculptures to admire. Celebrates 150 year anniversary of the Palace.  11/13€ entry.  https://lumiereslegendaires.com/

Of course in Aix, the Christmas markets, illuminations and children’s rides are pulling in the crowds.  To add to the fun, there’s the Bravade Calendale on Sunday 15th: This is a Provencal traditional offering ‘la pompe de Noel’ (festive bread) to the town authorities.  Lots of traditional music, Provencal dancers and for some reason Italian flag-throwers. General Instagrammable melée. 14.30 at Mairie followed by procession through centre ville and cours Mirabeau.

Whether you choose Marseille or Aix, or maybe both……Bon weekend!