© Nicolas DUPREY/ CD 78

The largest nature conservation area in the department of Yvelines was officially opened on June 24th with a variety of events reflecting the character of the park: fun and festivities for all the family included educational activities and an emphasis on preserving biodiversity. The thousands of local residents who accepted the invitation from Grand Paris Seine & Oise Urban Community (GPS&O) and the Department of Yvelines were clearly delighted.

For the hundreds of children and adults who lined the banks of the Seine at Carrières-sous-Poissy on Saturday June 24th, an entrancing sound and light show transported them to a magical fairytale world. Giant kites and glowing figures performed an aerial ballet to a soundtrack of classical music, illuminating the evening with poetic grace. It was a fitting finale to a day jam-packed with activities to mark the opening of the Parc du Peuple de l’herbe. Almost 10,000 members of the public took part in the celebrations organised by GPS&O and the Yvelines department. Visitors were invited to spot bugs and butterflies in the Insect Hotel and the very popular Butterfly House, while kite-making (and flying) workshops were also a big hit. In addition to the village-nature stands, nature trails and walks which provided a fun learning experience, short theatre pieces performed in a clearing in the woods, concerts, and dance on the main stage topped off the entertainment.