Dandelion 61

 

Sunshine fills the hearts of summer solstice revellers.

If not the skies, above the La Rochelle Fete de la Musique.

Precautionary showerproof wear is de rigueur, to partake in an 'apero,' at the pavement cafes.

The rhythmic pounding of drums, echoes around the quays. Revererates in the sternum.

With rival troupes, stationed at all four points of the compass. And more roving between.

Each joyously competes to outdo the other. In colour, decibels and choreography.

A momentary splash of the sunlight, which we have assembled here to celebrate, spotlights Saint-Nicolas tower. To the accompaniment of west coast covers.

As dusk falls, on the longest day of the year, a brass band stikes up. Bright and clear as their burnished instruments.