French urged to raise a glass for ‘Beaujolais Day’

PARIS (AP) — People across France are raising a glass of wine in an act of defiance after the deadly attacks on Paris.

The third Thursday in November is “Beaujolais Day,” when vintners release their latest batch of young, fruity Beaujolais Nouveau, and many bars and restaurants hold special tasting sessions.

President Francois Hollande has urged his compatriots to resume their social lives, asking: “What would our country be without its cafes?”

The question resonates loudly in the vibrant area of eastern Paris hit hardest by the attacks.

People there are determined to embrace the things that make life worth living: food, wine and friends.

Restaurateur Frederic Hoffman says: “This is what we do to make things go back to normal. We open the restaurant. We get people together.”

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