Each year one of the three components of Christmas in Europe is about the Christmas traditions brought along by each delegation in their suitcases. Obviously those who arrive by bus or car have an advantage, while those travelling by air or by rail have ‘managed’ despite the difficulties.
Thus it was that the installation and decoration of the stands set up in the town’s gymnasium challenged everyone’s skills so that they could then offer to the expected visitors a beautiful array of colours, flavours and traditions coming from way back in the traditions of each country.
And the sight of delegations busy nailing, gluing and repairing their stands is a delight to the eye in several respects.
Thus it was that 17 schools from 13 countries brought along, each according to their means, the quintessence of their Christmas traditions. And they were much admired and commented on by the many visitors who came along once the exhibition was open - also tasting the numerous delicacies on offer.
And here again we could see the influence of Jean Michel Wautelet, because each delegation had been allocated a BTS (HND) student for the duration of Christmas in Europe – students recognisable by their AEHT tie or scarf. These students were responsible for making sure that their allocated delegation’s problems were immediately solved – and everyone much appreciated this initiative.
THE STANDS
