The 35th annual general meeting of the Association for European Paediatric Cardiology, 14–17th June 2000, was held in the beautiful, historic city of Strasbourg. It was the largest meeting of the Association, with more than 600 registrants. They were rewarded with a scientific programme of the highest quality and a social programme to match, thanks to the outstanding organisational qualities of Dr Bernard De Geeter, whose whole family contributed at all scientific and social functions. The whole experience was most interesting, entertaining and convivial.