Promenade des Isles

This plot of land of 4 hectares, where more than 500 trees have been planted, is called the Promenade des Isles. It has been the site for different public events for several years. The most well-known is the Sainte Anne Fête, which has been held since 1805 at the end of July. For ten days the animation (the cavalcade, the fireworks display, the balls, the fairground attractions) attracts huge crowds, who come from all over the region. We must not forget to mention other public events, which have become traditional too like the horse show, the Foulées Rethéloises (cross-country running race), etc..
The first trees were planted on the meadow here in 1623 on a former cemetery. The town bought the neighbouring meadow (called the Cannevière) to extend the park in 1646. In 1775 the line of trees, which was in the middle, was cut down to create a central walkway. An entrance to the park from the town was made for pedestrians.
Since this time the Promenade des Isles has always been used as a meeting place for local festivities.