I spotted this poster when we first arrived in Samois-sur-Seine. And I convinced Mick we had to go.

Like all communities in France, Samois planned to celebrate the 14th July in style, and with the fête falling on a Sunday this year, a party on the Saturday evening seemed like a good idea.

I did not realise that the French National Day actually celebrates two events – the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille in 1789 (I knew that one), but also the Fête de la Fédération in 1790, the day selected to recognise the unity of the French people under a new political structure.

I followed the instructions on the poster and went to the Mairie (Mayor’s Office) to register our names, and was told I was to pay on the night. We thought it was a very cheap dinner at €12 per head that looked like it would include apéritifs, dinner, drinks and entertainment.  There was only one way to find out.

The square in front of the Mairie was cordoned off and tables set up ready for the meal. Mick had got himself dressed in his good outfit, and was ready to party.

On arrival, we followed the line-up of people in order to pay for our tickets. And when it was our turn, the girl from the Mairie looked at us and said “Madame Cavanagh”.

Yes, we think we were the only non-locals at the event.

She gave us our tickets and told us we had to give them to the caterers when dinner was ready, but to hang onto the tickets for the Tombola (raffle), which would be held after the entertainment. I’d have to say the caterers did not looked too thrilled about the evening.

We found a seat and were handed our apéritif – a kir (white wine and crème de cassis), accompanied by crisps and saucisson. And the plastic cup kept being re-filled.

We were not certain if wine would be available with the meal, and because we could not keep drinking kir (as it is pretty sweet), Mick headed off to the local grocery store, which was of course still open at 8.30pm, to buy a bottle of red wine. Lucky for Mick, the supermarket is situated just off the square.

By the time dinner was over, the sun had finally gone down, so the mood lighting was switched on and the music started.

We were treated to several ‘demonstrations’ by the group of enthusiastic dancers. I’ve added a very short video clip (7 seconds) at the end of the post for those readers who might like to take a peak.

Mick decided to get in on the act too!

Finally, it was time to draw the Tombola.

Remember I won the Tombola in Caudiès, and I won a prize in the Super Lotto in Caudiès too?

Well, I won this Tombola as well!!

And yes, everything was included for €12, even red wine, which came out during the meal. Mick could have saved his €5!

BONUS VIDEO CLIP