The 2025 conscription celebrations have brought generations together and instilled vibrant community spirit as Villefranche-sur-Saône came alive from January 24 to January 26, showcasing tradition, joy, and companionship.
This year, the festivities celebrated 290 conscripts entering their respective decades, filling the streets with laughter, music, and camaraderie. The celebrations kicked off with heartfelt activities, including visits to EHPADs (retirement homes), where younger conscripts presented bouquets to residents, brightening up the day for many, especially the centenarians.
Charles Coste, the president of the class of 1965, reflected on the significance of these gatherings. "It's really impressive to see all these people during the wave on Sunday; you feel like a star for an hour, so it's something quite special," he stated, outlining how these events have morphed from solemn remembrances to vibrant celebrations akin to family reunions.
Throughout the weekend, conscripts took time to honor seven residents at the EHPAD Montaigu, including three centenarians, who received bouquets and warm companionship, embodying the spirit of intergenerational connection. The festive environment was amplified by lively performances, including songs adapted by various classes, bringing joy to the residents.
Among the highlights, the conscripts paid visits to local schools, which provided younger students with the chance to engage with their elders. Vanessa Bon, the parents' association president, emphasized the gathering's importance: "We try to keep this celebration going, as there are fewer and fewer schools welcoming conscripts. The connection between generations is important."
Even the laughter reached the streets during the humorous parade which showcased the community's traditions and creativity. The festivities crescendoed with energetic dances and songs from the 60s to 80s, with the air electric as children and older adults danced together. One participant, Elias Merand, shared his thoughts: "The conscripts unite generations. And even with all the events we've experienced over the past years, customs and traditions are still here, and that's nice." His words captured the essence of these celebrations, forging bonds within the community.
Local businesses also showed their support with financial contributions, reaffirming the perpetual camaraderie among local merchants and conscripts. After receiving funds from the Les Calades association, Coste noted the excitement on the faces of the new conscripts. It's moments like this which strengthen the ties between the old and the young.
Olivier Laval, director of Ma Calade, emphasized the importance of the celebrations for residents, stating, "It's important for residents; the social link is sometimes complicated. It's a festive moment filled with color, especially after the holiday season. The celebration doesn't stop!" The link between younger conscripts and older residents proved reciprocal, with each party eager to maintain the friendship forged over years.
From these celebrations, it's clear the founder’s spirit—connection and joy—can outlive any hardships. The events fulfilled the promises of nostalgia, creating environments where reminiscing and remembering didn’t just happen inside one’s mind but flourished within the community heart. With gratitude and joy, Villefranche-sur-Saône’s locals stepped joyfully together throughout history, forging relationships one celebration at a time.