Tucked away in the core of Paris lies a modest village, characterized by casual street evenings, sociable 'bobos', and strong community bonds - the Hyper Neighbors beckon.
In the heart of Paris' vibrant 14th arrondissement, the Hyper Voisins association is once again bringing the community together for their annual "Table d'Aude" event. This long-standing tradition, which originated in September 2017, sees neighbours from rue de l'Aude and des Artistes gather for a shared meal and conversation, reinforcing the association's ideals of solidarity and friendly neighbourhood life.
The Hyper Voisins association, a large neighbourhood network, has grown to involve over 2,000 local residents. Its mission is to rebuild community ties, act as an informal safety net by keeping track of neighbours in difficulty, and foster a warm social fabric.
This year, the "Table d'Aude" is set up as a 350-meter table in the streets of rue de l'Aude and des Artistes, transforming the area into a bustling village party. As the sun sets, about twenty people can be seen chatting inside and on the sidewalk, with reusable green cups in hand.
Marie-Hélène Visconti, a local resident, has prepared a spread of salted chouquettes, saucisson, chips, and wine for the gathering. The dishes on the table are a mix of leftovers from previous get-togethers, a testament to the shared spirit of the event.
The old printing house at 29 rue de l'Aude, usually a quiet building, has taken on a new life as a party venue for this special evening. However, the electrical wires still stick out of the bare white walls, a reminder of the building's previous life.
The "Table d'Aude" event is a highlight of the community calendar, bringing together a thousand people for a night of friendship, sharing, and neighbourhood support. It's a time to connect, to enjoy good food and company, and to celebrate the spirit of community that the Hyper Voisins association works tirelessly to foster.
As the evening winds down, the streets of rue de l'Aude and des Artistes return to their usual hustle and bustle. But for one night each year, they become a symbol of the power of community, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Hyper Voisins association and the "Table d'Aude" event.
By 2025, the Hyper Voisins association is expected to have over 2,000 members, a testament to the growing demand for community and connection in our urban environments. The "Table d'Aude" event will undoubtedly continue to be a shining example of what can be achieved when neighbours come together in the spirit of mutual aid and conviviality.
The Hyper Voisins association, with a mission to rebuild community ties and foster a warm social fabric, extends beyond home-and-garden boundaries, encompassing over 2,000 local residents in the 14th arrondissement of Paris. This year's "Table d'Aude" event, a culmination of shared meals, conversations, and camaraderie, reflects the lifestyle of unity and neighborly warmth that the association promotes.
