FDUK FrenchDuck UK latest items

It seems a strange combination - a northern French city embracing the exotic sights, sounds and smells of India over the winter.
But that is what the Lille 3000 celebrations are all about - A cultural event on an international scale, Lille 3000, from 14 October 2006 to 14 January 2007, will bring India to you. Aromas, colours, and spices will wake up your senses in a city which has been completely refurbished for the occasion! "The multiple facets of India - at the crossroads of art and modernity - represent the heart of the first edition of lille3000. We will be able to enjoy metamorphoses in the city, artists’ installations, exhibitions, cinema, performances and parades, tastes of Bangalore, Bombay (Mumbai), Brick Lane… and Finland.
Another recurrent theme of lille3000 is the avant-garde, with visions of the future interlinking with the Indian events. Examples include Les modernités recyclées, La Maison de l’Energie Vitale and the Futurotextiles exhibition, where innovation and technology come together in interaction with contemporary art."
Sounds great fun - and although on one level it seems a little bizarre, you do have to admire the enthusiastic approach to cultural diversity and innovation which such events are about - actively supported by the local authorities. Although Lille gets enlivended in December with its Christmas market and Big Wheel, any northern French town can be a bit grim in the cold depths of winter, and this event should warm the spirits.
For more info see www.lille3000.com