Hail to Horses and “Taureau” Tradition in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Mid-August in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is feria time. Over an extended weekend, the town salutes its equestrian and rural heritage with parades, special apèros, brass bands, and outdoor DJ-directed dance-o-thon evenings called bodégas. And, of course, there are loads of special events featuring horses and bulls that take place in arenas, as well as on the main square and in the streets—with spectators ensconced behind metal barricades.

Of the variety of happenings, one event not to miss is the  Défilé de la Carreto Ramado, the elaborate parade that includes the fabulous Arlésiennes, dressed in period costumes. An enormous cart decorated with colorful flags, green foliage, highlighted with braids of garlic, sunflowers, and bouquets of lavender, leads a procession of dozens of linked-together draught horses, sporting ornate harnesses festooned with pompoms and ribbons. It’s quite the spectacle! Have a look:

Wherever you are this summer, dear readers, wishing you health, happiness, and hope.

Bises, Gayle

PS

The European roller is a summer favorite in these parts. Such a treat to see it fly!

PPS

Pleasures of Provence is again with the primary editor, where, most likely, it will remain for a few weeks.  When it returns, there will be more work to do—that is a given. When will it be ready for the proofreader? That, mes amis, is a complicated question. In the meantime, the trick is to keep on truckin’, n’est ce pas? And smiling!