On December 2nd, the Kohane group gathered to celebrate the annual tradition from Dan’s homeland, called the Escalade. The Escalade is an annual festival held in Geneva, Switzerland celebrating the defeat of the surprise attack by troops sent by Charles Emmanuel I, Duke of Savoy during the night of December 11, 1602. Celebrations include a large marmite made of chocolate and filled with vegetables and candies wrapped in the Geneva colors of red and gold. The custom is for the oldest and youngest to join hands and smash the chocolate pot, at which point everyone rushes for the marzipan.

 

 

Plentiful food, drinks, dessert and chocolate were enjoyed by all. During dinner, Dan made a speech about the history of the Escalade tradition, as well as the history and growth of the Kohane lab over the years. The night came to an end with the children taking turns smashing the marmite and enjoying the treats inside.