The 19th edition of Neighbors’ Day will take place all over France this Friday.
This year, it will bring together more than 9 million French people with the help of 1,250 municipalities and housing partners supporting the event. No fewer than 10,000 events will be organized in streets, building courtyards, villages, and gardens to share a friendly and festive moment among neighbors.
Invented in France in 1999 in the 17th arrondissement of Paris by Atanase Pรฉrifan, Neighbors’ Day has now spread to 36 countries including Japan, Canada, Tunisia, and Togo.
Designed to combat individualism in large cities, here are some reasons to be tempted by Neighbors’ Day.
Firstly, it might be an opportunity to have a nice surprise, to meet more interesting people than you expected. Yes, it’s high time to look beyond appearances, to discover the true personality of the slightly grumpy grandmother on the 5th floor or the slightly eccentric musician on the ground floor.
Secondly, if you are a cooking enthusiast, you will finally be able to share your latest culinary success (revised olive cake, tiramisu with speculoos, etc.).
Thirdly, calling all sports enthusiasts! Do you love playing basketball on the courts near your home but have no playing partner? Who knows, it might be the chance to find a teammate!
Fourthly, remember that the notion of solidarity can be created among neighbors and this can prove to be very useful. Who knows, the neighbors you befriend might help you from time to time, babysit your children, or fix a plumbing issue?
Fifthly, any excuse is a good one to have a drink, right?
