2.5.16

Walpurgis night


Certain European countries celebrate, in different ways, the Walpurgis Night, April 30. In Sweden it’s today rather a way to welcome the spring. It involves some singing, drinking… and watching a fire.

It’s celebrated each year at the Swedish House, one of the 37 international houses in the Cité Universitaire – the Paris University Campus (I wrote about it here).

We were welcomed by the director of the Swedish House, Åsa Ekwall. The Swedish Ambassador, Veronika Wand-Danielsson welcomed the spring and we also made a hurrah for the 70th birthday of the Swedish King.


The crowd had the pleasure of listening to a couple of spring songs…
























… awaiting the daylight to fade... and the fire.  

4 comments:

Amanda said...

Great photo of the University. I know where it is but never got a chance to go inside. It reminds me
a lot of USC. Happy, warm spring Peter!

Anonymous said...

I love your post very much, M. Peter!
Those photos of the ladies are beautiful. I guess we all know how stunning Swedish women can be...
When I came back to Paris, in September 1975 for my sister's wedding, I stayed for a few days at that place. My room was in a building that was designed by Le Corbusier.
I hope you had a great time with that celebration. Love that big fire.
Thank you so much.
Maria

Jeanie said...

That's the most incredible fire I've ever seen, Peter. If I didn't know about this holiday I would be quite certain my city was burning! It sure sounds like a wonderful way to celebrate spring. The pix are interesting and thanks for introducing me to something new!

Studio at the Farm said...

What a wonderful way to celebrate Spring!!
Kathryn