FIREMAN'S BALL

It is tradition in France, on the eve of the 14th July (Bastille Day) that the fire stations around the country throw open their doors for the annual Fireman's Ball (Bal du Pompiers). Basically it is a fundraiser for the station, complete with a concert (costumes and backup dancers included), dancing and cheap beer, and of course, lots of firemen (who are a special part of the French army and apparently have to train for 4 hours each day!). We visited the station in the 12th arrondisment, just near our house. Here are some photos, starting with the obelisk at Place de La Bastille, just 2 blocks from our house. The city of Paris also put on an African music concert here to start the night....