Fête des gitans
“Avé, Avé, aux Saintes Maries…..”
When thousands of gypsies from all over Europe get together on May 24 and 25 to celebrate the annual pilgrimage of their patroness Sarah, Les Saintes Maries de la Mer in Southern France fizzes.
The capital of the Camargue is full of music, dance, laughter, eating and drinking.
The flamboyant gypsy feasts are world renowned and attract more tourists every year.
After the opening ceremony on May 24, the black Sarah is carried along in a procession. A colourful procession of gardians on their white Camargue horses, loudly singing gypsies, and many of those interested, are filling up the narrow streets of Les Saintes Maries. After the ceremony an unexpected show-piece develops, when gypsies pick up their guitars. Flamenco puro!
On May 25 it is Maria Salomé and Jacobé’s turn. In a small boat, also they are carried to the sea in a colourful procession to enjoy the ultimate ceremony. This time the procession is accompanied by the Arlésiennes in their traditional costumes and guitar king Manitas de Plata.
Augustijn Video Productions (AVP) joined two full days.
Vive les fêtes des gitans.