Melbourne’s first French Festival,
PARIS TO PROVENCE,
has finally arrived

What an amazing event was held on Friday October 1 and Saturday October 2, 2010 at South Yarra’s premier venue, Como house and historic garden. While some concern was born over the AFL re match to be held on October 2, Melbourne’s French population showed no second thought and came to the French Festival by the thousands.

Friday’s family and kids day proved a fabulous day for visitors with a free animal farm and face painting. Special guests Melbourne’s Child entertained the younger crowds with mini tables and french colouring in activities. While older kids loved playing with Marie Antoinette, Napoleon and French gendarme characters seen roaming the premises. The mimes were no exception to the fabulous array of free entertainment.

The Cassis marquee in the childrens lawn provided an excellent chance for mums to leave their children for a short break while Cassis entertained 5-12 year olds with cooking classes complete with aprons and chefs hats. Petit et Grand however stole the childrens lawn entertainment by hosting a total of 3 fashion parades in the pavillion, with upbeat French music and a collection of imported French childrens labels.

Meanwhile on the main drive in front of the historic house it was La Parisien Pate who entertained their customers, when their staff dressed up in French Marie Antoinette attire. 

Certainly the most talked about food at the Festival was Pierick Boyers almond croissant and sea salt macarons, with many visitors attributing their second visit on the Saturday to these.

Overall, a spectacul time was had by the 10,000 visitors to the event with the average length of stay being just over three hours.
We look forward to another great Festival in 2011 where we promise this time, it will not clash with AFL even if there’s another draw !!

Costumes kindly supplied by www.creativecostumes.com.au