In images, in pictures. Saint-Félix-Lauragais at the time of its historic Cocagne Festival

It has become a tradition. Every year – or almost – for 51 years now, the village of Saint-Félix-Lauragais has taken advantage of the Easter weekend to dive back into the past and history.

And this Sunday, April 9, 2023 was no exception. One more time, the historic Cocagne Festival was in full swing in the streets and around the castle which were always full throughout the day. The highlights of this 47^e editing : the traditional entertainment around the greasy poledemonstrations of quadrille and the show of Shamannthe hypnotist.

A mesmerized audience

This year, the organizing association had bet to operate a real “return to the past” thanks to its headliner: Shamann, the crowd hypnotist. A great first for La Cocagne, but also for many visitors who, for almost two hours, let themselves be captivated by this show a bit quirky.

On the scene, twelve people from the public that Shamann took with him on his journey through time, to meet Jacquouille the Rogue, the good King Dagobert, Joan of Arc and many other fictional or historical characters.

Quadrille dance, medieval camp…

A little further on, the quadrille dancers, dressed in period costumes, also met with great success. Demonstrating the full extent of their talent and the beauty of this ballroom and ballroom dancing in vogue in the 19th century^e century.

During this time, near the castle, the Compagnie des archers de Berniquaut offered to try their hand at archery while next door, the falconer presented his birds of prey to visitors. A few steps away, the medieval camp also came alive. In the streets, the public was also able to (re)discover certain trades of yesteryear.

Party essentials

But the unavoidable – and unbeatable – attraction of this historic festival obviously remains the greasy pole. In the central square, the harlequin troupe invited the more adventurous to attempt the ascent of this wooden post – the same for 51 years. And among the brave few only managed to reach the top under the applause, shouts and other encouragement of the crowd.

The day then ended with the traditional parade commented in which several hundred people in costume took part.

.

Follow all the news from your favorite cities and media by subscribing to Mon Actu.