Event organiser Heather Philip knew that she’d made it when the French Ambassador wrote to tell her how much he and his wife had enjoyed last year’s French Country Fair. Run every year since 2004, the fair brings a dash of Gallic charm to Tauherenikau Racecourse. Walls are brightly painted to look like a French provincial village, stalls laden with arts and crafts are set up under umbrellas and fair-goers browse to the sound of accordionists and French jazz singers. “Quite a few French people do come, so you hear quite a bit of French spoken,” says Heather. “We have an area for petanque set up for everyone, but some bring their own sets and play it under the trees.” It all adds to the atmosphere.
When it comes to choosing stalls, Heather focuses on finding quality arts and crafts, and turns down a few that may not measure up. Basketware, prints, kitchenware, ceramics and painted furniture are just a few of things you’re likely to find. Some things may have a French style but most of the goods are locally made. “We aim to have different, interesting things,” she says.
As you’d expect of a French fair the food is pretty tempting. “We do have hot dogs for the children but we also have nice food with a French flavour. This year there will also be a farmers market,” she says. Wellington chef Laurent Loudeac, often seen on TV One’s Good Morning will be a special guest.
Stallholders are encouraged to dress up and show some French flair, as are fair-goers. ”There’s a whole family who come down from Palmerston North every year. They make their own costumes and come as something different every time,” she says. French maid outfits are popular – especially among the men – but there’s also a trend towards very elaborate Victorian and Edwardian costumes. Spot prizes are awarded for the best French dressing.
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