Pétanque (pronounced "pay-tonk") originated in Provence, France at the turn of the last century. It's played with metal balls (boules) and, like horseshoes and bocce, is simple to learn and fun to play. Read more about the game including a beginners guide to the rules and how to play at http://www.bafoe.org/....

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 boules if possible but there will be some spare sets available. The pastis, though the traditional drink of pétanque players in the South of France, is entirely optional!

We'll play from 1:30 to about 3:30 to allow time to go for a well-earned drink afterwards at the Peninsula Friends of Europe gathering in Redwood City which starts at 4.