pé·tanque

–noun

a form of lawn bowling originating in France, usually played on rough ground using steel balls.

Pétanque is a very simple game to play. The casual form of the game is played by about 17 million people in France.

The aim is to toss, or roll a number of hollow steel balls ("boules") as close as possible to a small wooden jack. Players take turns and the team that ends up nearest to the jack when all balls are played, wins.

No special skill is required, people of all ages can play together, and the equipment is inexpensive. The game of petanque is simple, relaxing, lots of fun, and a perfect way to make new friends.