Two of the world’s most popular fruits are the orange and the lemon. While oranges are typically consumed directly, the juice of the lemon is used for everything from sauces to lemonade to a child’s first invisible ink. What neither fruit is particularly known for is its use as a construction material.
France doesn’t let a little thing like international norms get in the way of its celebrations.
Welcome to the Fete du Citron, an annual event held during February in Menton, France. In it, designers display sculptures and parade floats constructed out of citrus fruit before a gathering of about 200,000 people. Visitors can also shop at the craft fair, enjoy the extensive orchid showcase, attend music and comedy shows and try lemon-based recipes.
The highlight is still the sculpture work. In 2019 designers worked with the theme of “magic” to produce citrus versions of two dragons, a phoenix, a fairytale castle and a Hindu hero, among others.
In previous years they’ve provided fruit-based renditions of everything from the Eiffel Tower to Mickey Mouse. So, if you’re in the mood for a party and you just want to see some acidic food turned into works of art, you can schedule a visit for Menton at the end of next month.
Or you can just go snack on an orange. They’re typically healthier for you than a five hour plane trip, anyway.
Question of the night: What’s your favorite fruit?
