PHOTOS. Illuminated tractors attract crowds to this Calvados village

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On the occasion of its 10th anniversary, the AJSA (Association for the Youth of Saint-Aubin-des-Bois) wanted to “ frapping fort » for the 2024 edition of its Christmas market: expansion of the reception area, increase in the number of exhibitors, presence of mascots Stich and Sonic as well as numerous activities.

“Last year, we had a lot of people but even more people came this year,” reports president Aurélie Degournay, who continues:

We have never seen so many visitors. We sold everything: the 150 pieces of tripe and the 225 pieces of tartiflettes. We even improvised emergency ham pancake menus for lunch and even recommended drinks! We sold all the pancakes, waffles, sausages, chocolates, wooden Christmas trees offered by the association

After some concerns about the weather with the heavy snowfall which paralyzed the Bocage the two previous days and the strong gusts of wind which shook the two barnums all day, the 35 exhibitors and hundreds of visitors were able to enjoy the market in a festive and friendly atmosphere. When they arrived, Sonic and Stich had a hard time making their way through as the crowd of their admirers was so dense. » They are overshadowing Santa Claus! “, an exhibitor remarked with a laugh when he saw the good man in red a little lonely handing out some treats.

It is with a parade of illuminated tractors that the day has come to an end. At nightfall, and in the almost gentleness of the emerging evening, a crowd of several hundred spectators of all generations gathered on the side of the road to see the shiny and noisy tractors pass by. » This is the first time I have seen such a parade in the area. It was really good that the farmers were present,” said one spectator.

The day will have been intense for the team and the 25 AJSA volunteers who were on the Christmas market this Sunday. » But we end the day with happy exhibitors ready to come back next year and delighted visitors. We had great weather and all the activities offered were appreciated. We are very satisfied. It’s very gratifying for the whole team to see that their efforts have been rewarded,” concludes Aurélie.

Philippe Boscher, from Sainte-Cécile, won the 1st prize of the raffle : a Santa Claus weighing 700 g and 40 cm high made by Nicolas, AJSA volunteer.

The work of the volunteers is not quite finished, however: this Monday, they are working to dismantle the Christmas market awnings and, at the same time, are setting up the stage which will host the traditional Christmas show on December 8 afternoon. Another opportunity to get together and have a good time together.

The next Christmas market will take place on November 30, 2025.

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