Nuit Blanche (Part 1 of 2)

Last weekend, we enjoyed Nuit Blanche in Paris. 

The event is an celebration of art and activity all night long, hence the name nuit blanche or sleepless night.  The event originated in originated in Helsinki in 1989 and spread around the world.  Paris began its Nuit Blanche celebrations in 2002.  

This year, the Paris celebration included all sorts of events, such as bike rides, art displays, karaoke and museum runs.  We opted for the Parade.

The parade began in the nearby Place de la Concorde.  During the afternoon, we visited the staging area to get a preview of the parade floats.  We saw some tall knights on horses and a large balloon.

Once the parade started at dusk, it snaked its way along the Rue du Rivoli where we live.  There were thousands of spectators along the route.  

The parade included a mix of bands and many floats created by different artists.  The parade was nothing like we have seen before.  We snapped some photos and shot some videos to capture the fun-filled experience.   

There were a few bagpipe bands that marched, including one that led the parade.  Surprisingly, the pipers are French and based near Paris.  Who knew? 

Another pipe band hailed from Bretagne (Brittany) in the west of France.  They proudly flew the Breton flag, wore traditional Breton clothes and played their pipes.   

In addition to bagpipe bands, there several marching bands like those might see in a parade in the U.S.  Plus, there were several drum corps pounding out lively beats.  Many of the drummers were women.  Who knew?

The parade also included some balloons and several floats.  Here are some photos.

The crowd cheered as the snake tried to eat a spectator on a balcony.    

Please stay tuned.  There's more to come.

Next Up:  Videos of the Nuit Blanche Parade