L'Escalade!!!

This past weekend was l'Escalade in the Canton de Geneve. Every year in early December, the Swiss city-canton of Geneva interrupts its pre-Christmas festivities for a different kind of celebration: l'Escalade, a festival that celebrates the city's victory over the Duke of Savoy's invading troops in 1602. The Genevois defended their turf with artillery, hand-to-hand weaponry, and the marmite of one Mère Royaume, who--according to legend--dispatched one enemy soldier and dispersed his companions by throwing her cauldron of hot vegetable soup at the troops who pushed their way up the street beneath her window. Because our village is part of the Canton de Geneve, it too put on a celebration.

We started, by meeting up with several neighbors. Their children were dressed up in costumes and we walked down to the village center. Once there, EVERY CHILD from about 2 years old and up were handed a 1.5 foot long torch, that was set afire. The torches were handed out by the fireman of Genthod. Yikes!!! There was quite a crowd of people. All of the children were learning that you hold a torch up and not out, so as to not catch others on fire. It made it was quite thrilling. Double YIKES! Within a few minutes a fife and drum band, in full costume, bearing banners and flags, brought everyone to attention. The children carrying torches, followed them, as did we. Our parade of about 200 villagers wound through the old parts of the village, passing people who joined the end of the parade. After about 15 minutes, we ended up at the school, where torches were put out and all were invited to partake of a dinner together. We sat at long tables with our friends. The band played up front and vegetable soup, bread, cheese, and drinks were served. All of this was free of charge. We were a little amazed at this!



At one point during dinner a large chocolate cauldron was brought to the front of the room. The oldest person and youngest person present were invited up front to break the Marmite or large chocolate cauldron. A song was sung about l'Escalade and then a large sword was handed to the oldest man and together with the child he took a swinging blow to the chocolate cauldron. Cheering exploded as bits of candy, placed inside the marmite flew out! All of the chocolate, (and there was more than we all could possibly eat) marzipan and candies were handed out to everyone. At this point a Dj came out and played dancing music.


It was our first Escalade, but in no means our last. Next year we have decided to attend the huge celebration in Geneve, as well as our quaint village celebration of l'Escalade!!!