Pétanque - which originated in Provence, France at the turn of the last century - is played with metal balls (boules) and is extremely simple, just like horseshoes. You throw the boules while standing with your feet together in a circle. There's a small wooden target ball (the cochonnet), which you have to get as close as possible to. What makes the game so appealing, is that you can be way ahead for a while, yet lose a second later, or vice versa. Because nothing is decided until the last player plays the very last boule. If he or she moves the cochonnet or hits an opponent's boule out of the way, the layout of the boules - and thus your score - can change dramatically.

If you are a beginner, read Basic Rules of Petanque and Petanque for Beginners.

We'll gather at the Pétanque Court in Flood Park, Menlo Park and play casual games with 2 or 3 person teams. Bring your own picnic, including beverages. (Pastis, such as Pernod, is the traditional summer drink in the South of France!) If it's hot, don't forget to bring a hat and sunscreen.

Ideally, you should bring your own set of boules (see Where to Buy Boules) but, if enough people have boules, we can probably organize a time-sharing arrangement.

And, if you just want to watch, hang out with the group and picnic in the park, feel free to come too!