Today is a holiday in France, Victory in Europe Day (when the Germans surrendered, ending WW II). So we weren't surprised to see lots of people out walking around. However, when we started seeing women dressed in Arlesian costumes, we thought that something else was being celebrated.
When we rounded the corner into the Place du Forum we started seeing men on chevals blancs (white horses that are typical of the Camargue region.)
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| The flag bearers at the beginning of the parade |
A few minutes later we were watching a parade of at least 100 chevals blancs, most of which were carrying a male rider and a woman or girl dressed in Arlesian costume of the late 19th century. It was quite remarkable, in that it happened in the heart of the old city. The parade appeared to be heading to the Arena. A day later, we learned this was the prelude to crowning the Queen of Arles.
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| Some of the young people in the parade |
A couple of days ago, I specifically asked at the tourist office if there were any big celebrations that were planned for Victory in Europe Day. I was told NO, just the laying of some wreaths by the mayor. So we didn't know about this great parade ahead of time, we just stumbled upon it. Serendipity strikes again!
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