The Kohane Lab hosted our annual Escalade Party at the end of 2025 to celebrate the historic defense of Geneva, Switzerland against the neighboring Savoyans in 1602.
According to legend, a local townswoman, Catherine Cheynel—known as “Mère Royaume”—thwarted the attackers by pouring a large cauldron of boiling vegetable soup over them. This moment is commemorated each year with a chocolate cauldron, or marmite, filled with truffles and marzipan vegetables.
In honor of Dan’s Geneva roots and heritage, he gave a brief presentation on the history of the Fête de l’Escalade and shared stories from his time there. Together, we enjoyed great food, laughter, and the company of friends and family.
The celebration featured plenty of Swiss chocolate, truffles, and marzipan, and concluded with a white elephant gift exchange. After a few steals and swaps, everyone went home with a gift, marking yet another wonderful year of celebration.
