On arrival at Lille station, I saw a pianist mesmerising the few people gathered around him.
After some confusion on my part on where to get the metro, I eventually found it. I dropped my bag at my apartment and walked to the town centre.
As I got closer to the centre, more and more people appeared. This wasn’t the normal quantity of people in a town centre. There were thousands of people, many carrying a drink in their hand and some dancing.
Without knowing, I’d stumbled into one of France’s biggest annual events: the Fête de la Musique (“Music Festival”). It’s held every year on the summer solstice. The festival, started in France in 1982, has since spread to more than a hundred other countries.
The basic idea is wonderfully French:
- Musicians are encouraged to play for free in public spaces.
- Anyone can participate, from professional orchestras to teenagers with a guitar.
- Streets, squares, parks, cafes and bars become impromptu venues.
- Most events are free.
- It happens everywhere, from tiny villages to Paris
Very soon after encountering the crowds, I saw a church. It was an ideal moment to get out of the heat and to get a bit of peace!
The church’s grandeur was enhanced by a couple playing music in it. They were part of the festival too. The music was sublime. I sat down and listened for a while. It allowed me to cool down too!
As I walked around the town centre, I saw many musicians and DJs. Some people were playing music from their balconies and people gathered underneath them.
I started making my way back home but then saw another band playing. I stopped to watch their dynamic and charismatic singer. Standing next to me was a Parisian on his way home from his travels. He told me about the festival. I said to him that people were in good spirits and remarkably well behaved despite the alcohol being consumed. Other places would be much more rowdy. With a mischievous look on his face, he replied that it might get more “exciting” as the night approaches!
