This weekend, an estimated 20,000 revelers from France and neighboring countries gathered at a historic and perilous location—a military firing range near Bourges in central France—for an unauthorized rave party, defying significant safety warnings. The event, known locally as a "free party," began on Friday and saw attendees dancing to thumping techno music across a vast field that has been used as a weapons testing ground for over a century.
The scene was one of stark contrast: a sea of tents, vans, and partygoers in colorful outfits stretched across a grassy landscape that authorities describe as "extremely dangerous." The primary risk stems from unexploded ordnance, particularly artillery shells dating back to World War II, which may still be buried in the 10,000-hectare area.
Philippe Le Moing Surzur, the local prefect, emphasized the hazards. "This is a site that has been in use for 150 years, and we know there are potentially old artillery shells there," he said, noting that bomb disposal experts discover them regularly. While the landowner, France's Directorate General of Armaments, lacks precise knowledge of all risks, modern shells are not considered a threat.
Despite the event's illegal nature, French authorities mobilized to ensure attendee safety and minimize disturbances. The prefecture issued clear warnings against lighting fires, digging, or picking up objects. The gathering coincides with ongoing efforts in the French parliament to tighten legislation against unauthorized raves, introducing potential prison sentences for organizers and fines for attendees.
The site, crisscrossed by roads that are closed during military tests, is not fenced, making access difficult to control. Organizers had expected up to 30,000 people at the peak of the weekend event, highlighting the challenge of balancing public safety with the spontaneous nature of such gatherings.
Reference(s):
Thousands of revelers descend on 'dangerous' WWII site in France
cgtn.com
