Bamboo in Ain remains a topic of discussion
A Record-Breaking May Ball in Rignieu-le-Désert
The picturesque hamlet of Rignieu-le-Désert in Chazey-sur-Ain, France, recently played host to a memorable event – the annual May Ball. This year, the event attracted over 1,200 attendees, more than double the number from the previous year, marking a significant milestone in its history.
Organised by the Amicale des Jeunes de Rignieu-le-Désert (AJRD), the May Ball has been a cherished tradition in this rural community for many years. Rooted in the local culture, the event traces its origins back to La Fraternelle du Désert, a community hall built in 1948 by residents to host events for returning prisoners of war. Since then, it has served as a hub for social and festive activities, helping to preserve local traditions and nurture a sense of community spirit.
This year's May Ball was no exception. The event featured three DJs, a real stage, shooter platforms, five bouncers at the entrance, a photographer, and a QR code to retrieve photos. The crowd was lit up by the screens of iPhones as they danced to the music of French rapper Gims.
The attendees, both boys and girls, dressed up for the occasion. While the girls adorned themselves with false eyelashes, gloss, crop tops, and false nails, the boys opted for sweaters, shirts, and Nike model TN Requin, with fresh shaves to match.
The success of the event was palpable. The young organisers sold sixteen pints of blonde beer and five of cherry beer, and an impressive thirty-five bottles of vodka were consumed throughout the night. The departmental road 77C was closed for the event, which set new records in attendance and alcohol sales.
Yet, despite the lively atmosphere, the event passed off without any incidents. There were no fights reported, a testament to the good-natured spirit of the attendees.
The May Ball in Rignieu-le-Désert is more than just a social gathering. It represents the resilience and unity of the local community, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. As Andrea Mabilon, a farm employee and treasurer of the club, put it, "Come before midnight, I'm gonna make your dream come true." This phrase encapsulates the spirit of the event – a promise of a memorable experience that lives up to its name.
The May Ball is a shining example of how rural communities in France maintain their customs and social life, involving youth in preserving these cultural festivities. It reflects a post-war effort to rebuild and unify the community through shared events, symbolising continuity, local identity, and social cohesion.
[1] For more information on the history of La Fraternelle du Désert and the May Ball, please visit [insert relevant link here].
The fashion-and-beauty choices among the attendees at the May Ball, such as false eyelashes, gloss, crop tops, and Nike model TN Requin, were a reflection of contemporary lifestyle trends. On social media, the event, with its lively music and interactive elements like QR codes for photos, was a buzzworthy moment in entertainment.
