We were fortunate enough to be able to attend the Republican Guard Spectacular! That's the group that is the ceremonial/security arm of the gendarmerie, which apparently only performs in this type of event 4 times a year. We got to see revolution style soldiers in formation and in traditional dress firing off their cannons and firearms!! Very LOUD!! Then the band came out and did their thing, and then the motor cyclists! All that was missing was the Dagwood dogs, beers and sample bags, cos it was a bit like the show at the Ekka, despite the regalia!!!! After that we moved to the equestrian centre to see the dressage and horse displays. All very interesting and quite amazing! We felt very privileged being able to be a part of this! We all came back to the hotel in the Metro, including Stickman. He has perfected the stair waltz - stick foot foot, stick foot foot; and got up quite a pace!! Early dinner tonight and hopefully we will be able to go out for a quiet walk for a little while after! We'll see!!! Xx