Since its creation twenty-two years ago, the Bourg-en-Bresse Christmas market has been run by volunteers. It began with the Comité des Bons-Enfants and became the responsibility of the Anim'à Bourg association, chaired by Gérard Parrain since 2012.
Each year, as soon as the market closes, a debriefing takes place where the decision to renew the event is taken. During the month of April, initial information will be provided to exhibitors who have participated over the years. The responses are compiled. On October 15, the members of the association decide who will be present in the twenty-nine sales chalets and the two snack chalets. Priority is given to exhibitors from the region knowing that “those who are manufacturers must both have sufficient production for three weeks and be able to hold the stand by stopping their manufacturing. Which is not always easy,” underlines the president.
And added: “In the selection of exhibitors, the team tries to have around 10% new products each year. »
Volunteers ensure the security of the site
Apart from the installation of the chalets and a contribution to communication provided by the City, the association is responsible for everything. For security, a volunteer specifies that “it is the volunteers who provide the vehicles which prevent intrusions. The events that occurred in Germany are not hidden. Around ten volunteers change every day and are very attentive to the smooth running of the day by continually moving around the site.”
Create social ties and participate in the economic life of the city
Gérard Parrain also indicates that “the association is proud to create social ties in the city center and to participate in the economic life of the city. And every year, a meal between volunteers and exhibitors is also a very good moment of sharing.”
Thanks to paid actions such as this year's folk ball, many events are financed by the association on the site. The only downside expressed by the president: “Few presenters perform for free even though it could be an opportunity to support each other between associations and cultural services in the city. »
This year, attendance, sometimes hampered by rain, is considered good. The figures will only be revealed at the debriefing. The only certainty for the moment is that the volunteers we met are ready to leave again next year.
In the meantime, the 2024 edition ends on Tuesday December 24. The organizers, Anim'à Bourg, are offering a closing show on Monday December 23 from 6 p.m.
