by Emile, age 8, asks Pere Fouettard are you related to the Dutch Zwarte Piet?, about the Rhone and Saone Rivers, and why Lyon is France’s food capital
Dear Pere Fouettard,
My name is Emile and I am 8 years old. I live in Lyon, France, where every December the whole city lights candles in the windows for the Fete des Lumieres, and my maman says it started because of a statue on a hill.
First, are you related to the Dutch Zwarte Piet?
Second, a geography question: what two rivers meet in Lyon?
Third, a school question about my country: why is Lyon considered the gastronomic capital of France?
I left you a bredele cookie and a small cup of warm cider, just to be polite.
Love, Emile, age 8, Lyon, France, Lyon, France
From the Desk of Pere Fouettard
Dear Emile, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Are you related to the Dutch Zwarte Piet?
We are distant cousins in spirit, both companions who travel alongside the true gift-bringers of our regions, though our particular traditions developed quite separately.
What two rivers meet in Lyon?
The Rhone and Saone Rivers meet right in the middle of Lyon, and the peninsula between them, all lit up with lights during the city’s famous Fete des Lumieres, makes for one of the loveliest views on my entire French route.
Why is Lyon considered the gastronomic capital of France?
Lyon has long been famous for its exceptional food traditions, home to countless bouchons, small traditional restaurants, and celebrated chefs going back generations. Its position at the crossroads of several rich farming regions, plus a long culinary history, earned it the proud title of France’s gastronomic capital.
Joyeux Noel, Emile.
Ho ho ho, Pere Fouettard
