We think these are Red Hat Ladies posing with Accordionist Bill Schwartz at the Parisian Promenade. According to their website, the Red Hat Society is “a global society of women that supports and encourages women in their pursuit of fun, friendship, freedom, fulfillment, and fitness.” Well, their mission about sums up the good time that was had at Sunday’s Parisian Promenade. The Parisian Promenade in Bicentennial Gardens is a little like the Easter Parade in NYC. Part of the entertainment hinges on the promenaders dressing up, bringing their parasols and their pooches. The accordionist, strolled tirelessly, serenading the promenaders. 

Accordions are popular in European folk music, especially the Lawrence-Welk-style polkas. In the USA, they are gaining in popularity, especially with the rise in interest in Cajun music. Mr. Schwartz plays more in the soulful, French tradition. We are still smiling from the fun in the park at this free event. Let’s hope the funding is available to sponsor it again next year. We’re sharing this post with Ruby Tuesday where the color red is the catalyst for a virtual promenade!