Festive Start to France Protest Gives Way as Clashes Erupt Again
Costumes and marching
Crowds filled streets in French cities on Saturday, with more than 300,000 people taking part. The protests coincided with Halloween, and many participants wore costumes. Some came as Spider-Man, Zorro or the Pink Panther, while others danced along the route. One participant dressed as Marie Antoinette and carried a sign referencing cake.
A joyful day turns violent
The demonstrations began with a festive atmosphere, but the mood shifted as the day went on. Clashes between demonstrators and police marked the end of the protests. The violence followed a large turnout across the country. The combination of crowds and disorder pointed to continuing unrest.
Unrest continues
France has been experiencing an acute period of unrest for nearly two months. The protest movement began with rebellious high school students. Saturday’s demonstrations showed that the movement remained active in French cities. Their end in violence contrasted sharply with the celebratory start.
Key points
- More than 300,000 people joined Saturday’s protests in French cities.
- Halloween costumes and dancing gave the demonstrations a festive opening.
- Clashes between demonstrators and police brought the day to a violent end.
- The unrest began nearly two months ago with rebellious high school students.