French Cowboys

So we went to this "Foire" in the local exposition area - it was a hybrid of a flea market/ local trade show (there is absolutely nothing to do on Sundays here and it was raining, so we were desperate for some action) - and we ran into something absolutely bizarre: a bunch of French cowboys line-dancing! I was stopped in my tracks - there was a stage set up and there were about 40 men and women, all dressed to the nines in their cowboy hats, cowboy boots, the whole ensemble, and all moving in synchronized dance - it was quite a sight, and one I never expected to find outside, say, Texas.

Apparently, the "West Country" is a huge group that organizes "Line-Dancing" events throughout France and in general celebrates what they see as the quintessential Western American culture. One flyer I picked up talk about the Harley motorcycles, horse parades, barrel racing, pole bending (?) and line dancing, as well as showcasing Indian villages, gold miner's camps and rodeo shows! According to their website (I could not resist) they organize "camps" where one can sample the Far West living - complete with re-creations of street duels (they rent you cowboy costumes, rifles and guns!)

Who knew there would be such an interest in France that organizations like this can exist and thrive? Ha, they like to look down on America as a culture vacuum on one hand, and on the other hand, line dancing and rodeos? I have to admit, the line dancing did look like a lot of fun!