From 7-10 December 2023, four members of the Cheltenham Twinning Association Committee were in Annecy on a working visit to explore future projects and collaborations in order to continue the wonderful relationship Cheltenham has with Annecy, our partner town since 1956.
Day 1 of our working visit to Annecy.
Visited Art by Friends gallery and discussed collaboration with Cheltenham Paint Festival
Had a working group meeting where youth engagement, democratic transition and citizen projects were discussed.
Met the Department responsible for young people
Met with Annecy athletics group to discuss international engagement with marathons, park runs and athletics exchanges
Visited a local school who have “greened” their concrete playground
Visited an eco village in Annecy
Day 2 of our working visit to Annecy
Met with members of the Jazz aux Carrés and Lac in Blue group together with Cllr Samuel Dixneuf and Marlène Leclercq from the Conservatoire à Rayonnement Régional to discuss collaborations with the Cheltenham Jazz Festival.
Visited Annecy Le Vieux and met the Mayor, Odile Ceriati-Mauris
Had a wonderful visit to the Conservatoire Annecy / Pays de Savoie to experience the superb ArtBox Festival
Attended European dances and Christmas stalls at the Noël des Alpes International
Received a warm welcome from Annecy Mayor M. François Astorg and discussed Cheltenham, the Cotswolds and future projects
Attended an incredible concert of Fatoumara Diawara
A lot has been learnt. Annecy is seriously impressive in its approach to democracy, sustainability and youth engagement. Thank you Annecy – an inspiring and exciting visit with many things for the two towns to work on together.
Here is a link to an article about the visit to Annecy on their website.
Cheltenham International Partnerships 