* Carnivals
Originally, the carnival announced the beginning of Lent - period of fasting. For sailors, it was the occasion for
a last celebration before going off for long months at sea. This tradition has been continued in Nord-Pas de Calais
and it is always amidst fun and laughter, even jubilation in Dunkirk, that the carnival is celebrated. Accompanied by
giants, groups of cheerful characters and of course the whole population of the region, the month of February turns
into the hottest month of the year…
www.ot-dunkerque.fr
*Giants
Symbolic figures of the festivals and carnivals in Nord-Pas de Calais, the giants - huge wicker models - are associated
with traditions, collective souvenirs and community identity. Generally representing legendary heroes, crafts or mythical
animals, their origins date back to the beginning of the 16th century. And if this family of giants now counts over 300 members,
it keeps expanding through international events and celebrations amongst giants who come from all over Europe!
For more information: Association "La Ronde des Géants" www.geants-carnaval.org/ The Gayant Festival in Douai : www.ville-douai.fr
*Braderies (Flea markets)
Often associated with a 'ducasse' or Beer festival, the braderie gives you the opportunity to clear out your loft!
Here you sell, buy, chat, drink, eat… all in a wild atmosphere! The most famous? Lille's of course! Each year on the
first weekend in September, around 12,000 sellers and 2 million visitors hustle there! Two days of non-stop festivity,
where beer flows freely and mussel shells pile up in pyramids on road corners.
www.lilletourism.com
Another braderie worth visiting is the Maroilles braderie, every year in June in a more rural atmosphere.
*Christmas markets
Art and craft objects, regional and local produce… the traditional Christmas markets are the perfect place to track
down an original present!
*Enduro des sables in Le Touquet in February
An impressive start from over 2,000 motorbikes attempting not to get stuck in the sandy dunes.
www.letouquet.com
* International Kite-Flying Meets in Berck-sur-Mer in April
Thousands of kites invade the sky of Berck, for the delight of both children and adults
www.opale.com
*Paris-Roubaix
A legendary 250 km race where the best cyclists of the moment compete.
Contact: Vélo Club de Roubaix (Roubaix's Cycling Club): +33 (0)3 20 02 39 90
*Water festivals in Nord - Pas de Calais from May to September
Processions of pleasure boats, river cruises, introduction to steering a boat, water jousting…
are some of the many activities proposed in the river communes of the region.
www.partir-en-croisiere.com
*International Exhibition of Giant Sand Sculptures in Hardelot in June/July
Every year, magnificent sand statues are constructed on an imposed theme in Hardelot
and compete to win 1st prize.
www.hardelot-tourisme.com
* La Tournée d'été (Summer tour) "Ruée vers l'Eau"
This tour will take place in over 20 communes in Nord-Pas de Calais and Belgium, making for a friendly and festive summer.
The programme includes: festive attractions, interactive challenges…
www.partir-en-croisiere.com
