France/50ème anniversaire du Jumelage Orléans - Wichita
Signed in 1973, the twinning agreement between Wichita and Orleans celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2023. To celebrate this anniversary, several events are being organized throughout the year.
Since the Second World War, Wichita and Orleans have shared a solid friendship, born of the bonds created between soldiers who were allies in combat. Subsequently, the American city showed great support for the people of Orleans, notably by sending them food parcels. In 1951, the "little train from Wichita", an emblematic attraction in the Parc Pasteur, was offered to the children of Orleans by those of the American city. As part of this 50th anniversary, a program of celebrations will punctuate the end of 2023.
The first event will take place on Friday June 16, at the Hôtel Groslot, in the presence of Serge Grouard, Mayor of Orléans, and Brandon Whipple, Mayor of Wichita.
This re-signing testifies to the numerous exchanges and fruitful collaborations between our two cities," says Serge Grouard. Our relationship with Wichita has that little extra 'something' that makes it such a pleasure for us to meet again. "
Other events to note:
From July 4 to August 17, the gates of the Hôtel Groslot will host a photo exhibition retracing the history of Wichita and its link with the city of Orleans through the centuries.
On Tuesday July 4 and Wednesday July 5, Orleans will celebrate Independence Day in the Parc Pasteur, an event organized in partnership with the Orleans Wichita NOLA association and the Orléans Municipal Band.
On Wednesday August 16, as part of the festivities commemorating the liberation of the city, a ceremony will be held in honor of the GIs, Resistance fighters and maquisards who died in the Second World War.sistants and maquisards who led to the liberation of Orléans at the Monument de la Victoire, will take place on the Esplanade du Souvenir Français.
Finally, from September onwards, Wichita and American culture will mingle with several events, such as Rentrée en fête, on September 10, and the Festival de Loire, from September 20 to 24.
Source: www.orleans-metropole.fr
