Soirée en blanc. And green

It was only very recently that Lyon hosted its first soirée en blanc — the white evening. Organized by the passionate inhabitants of the 6ème arrondissement, it took place right in their own neighborhood, at a café locals adore: Café du Pond, in Place Maréchal Lyautey.

People, all dressed in white, arrived one by one or two by two, sharing kisses and greetings. I couldn't help but wonder — does everyone truly know everyone here, or do they just wish they did?

With the wistful tunes of an accordion in the air, the evening officially began.

At first, it seemed no one was interested in anything but the petite wine glasses — yes, petite, and frankly, one of the few things I can’t forgive the French for. Standing there with bottles of perfectly chilled sparkling mineral water, I felt like my time would have been better spent indulging in a slice of chocolate cake back home, taken out of the fridge, perfect 30 minutes before.

But then the crowd began to grow, people weaving through each other, trying not to brush shoulders too much in the +27°C heat. By 7.30 p.m., something shifted. Perhaps it was the extra glass of wine, or simply the heat, or maybe me, but soon enough, the chilled water became much more attractive.

People returned for second glasses, then entire bottles. And for a moment, I felt a little like Mother Teresa — saving everyone from dehydration while sacrificing any hope of enjoying the evening myself (and only because I talked in French and every time I do, I feel like I’m taking an exam). All I did was pour and explain the wonders of this magical water, so beloved that night. A Stelpe mineral water so beloved by myself.