FRENCH CHRISTMAS MARKETS

The French love their markets and Christmas is no exception. They are called “Marchés Noel” and most communities have at least one weekend day beginning in November and into early December dedicated to crafts, scarves, toys, Christmas decor, soaps, food items and sometimes even wine. 

I have been making the rounds and today did two marchés. The first was at the Chateau de Camon which has the reputation of being an excellent restaurant in a former abbey. I first visited this “Village of flowers” in August with Chantal so was delighted to return. See my previous posting on Camon here.

The second marchéwas at the former Abbey of Saint Polycarpe close to Limoux, the home of the original champagne. 

Two weeks ago I also visited the Marché Noel in my own village of Montréal where an interesting artifact was found: a US Army field telephone unit. I was tempted to buy it for sentimental reasons, but resisted.

The Camon market was stunning in terms of setting. The Saint Polycarpe marché was better in terms of items for sale which included organic wine. The Montréal Marché was less impressive, with mostly homemade items. Regardless, it was fun all around putting me in the Christmas spirit and a great way today to spend a Sunday afternoon. And the drive!! THIS is God’s country….

Camon abbey entrance
Camon entrée close-up
Camon abbey corridor leading to the marché
Camon marché
A vestige from the abbey’s past
Camon entrance to the abbey courtyard
Camon abbey courtyard
Camon abbey courtyard
Camon abbey courtyard
Camon abbey courtyard
Abbaye de Saint-Polycarpe
Abbaye de Saint-Polycarpe
Abbaye de Saint-Polycarpe
Abbaye de Saint-Polycarpe
Abbaye de Saint-Polycarpe
Abbaye de Saint-Polycarpe
Montréal marché
Montréal marché
Montréal marché: US Army field telephone
Translation: Country telephone adopted by the American army and utilized during the Second World War, the celebrated “EE8.” Maintenance of these telephones was carried out by the US Army’s communications and communications department, the “Signal Corps.”This model is original, production having begun in 1937.

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