Dunkirk Carnival (Carnaval de Dunkerque) 2025 in France

Dunkirk Carnival, one of northern France’s most famous and vibrant festivals, draws tens of thousands of visitors annually to the coastal city of Dunkirk. Spanning from mid-January to mid-April, the carnival captures the spirit of the region’s fishing heritage with music, colorful parades, and lively traditions. This centuries-old event is a unique blend of local customs and modern festivities, offering visitors a deep connection to Dunkirk’s maritime past and a chance to experience one of Europe’s most lively and unconventional carnivals.

Festivities and Highlights

The Dunkirk Carnival is renowned for its vivid celebrations, marked by extravagant costumes, traditional fisherman's attire, and parades that fill the streets every weekend. One of the main attractions, “La Bande de Dunkerque,” takes place on the Sunday before Mardi Gras (the final day of Carnival), drawing the largest crowds. Revelers don brightly colored, often humorous outfits, while many carry umbrellas with long, elaborate shafts, adding to the visual spectacle. Musicians dressed in yellow fishermen’s coats lead the parade, creating a festive atmosphere that lasts for hours.

Herring Toss

A unique feature of the carnival is the custom of tossing smoked herring into the crowd. At the climax of the event on the Sunday before Mardi Gras, the mayor and city officials throw nearly 1102.31 pounds (500 kg) of herring from the balcony of the Town Hall on Place Saint-Valentin, where attendees eagerly await the chance to catch one. This quirky tradition harks back to the days when fishermen were about to embark on long voyages, and the herring toss symbolizes a blessing for prosperity and good fortune.

Schedule and Program

The Dunkirk Carnival, lasting over two months, is packed with festivities, but the most eventful days take place in the final weeks leading up to Shrove Tuesday. Starting with the Bath of the Frozen in Malo on January 1, the carnival unfolds with a series of “bandes” (parades) and balls nearly every weekend. Highlights include the Beerne Band on February 8 and the Black Cat Ball at the Kursaal the following night, alongside other local favorites such as the Armbrouts-Cappel Band on February 9.

The most intense celebrations, known as the "Three Joyful Days," begin on March 2 with the first parade featuring the Dunkirk Band and its traditional herring throw. Festivities continue on March 3 with a parade along Citadel Strip near Port Museum, and culminate on March 4 with the final parade and Rosendael's Band. Shrove Tuesday’s events close the carnival with a joyful spirit, but smaller gatherings and activities, including children’s events like the Children's Ball of the Knights on March 5, keep the festive atmosphere alive.

Throughout the carnival, Saturday nights are dedicated to grand balls at the Kursaal, where locals and visitors alike can dance to the music of regional bands. The peak weekend also features additional celebrations like the Kiekeun Festival on March 7 in Coudekerque-Branche and themed balls, such as the Sporting Ball and the Spring Ball later in March. These celebrations not only mark the end of winter but also usher in the coming of spring with exuberant parades, lively music, and Dunkirk's distinctive traditions.

Ticketing, Parking, and Accessibility

Most events during Dunkirk Carnival, including the parades and herring toss, are free of charge, making it an accessible experience for all visitors. However, some of the grand balls may have ticketed entry, and advance booking is recommended due to high demand. Parking around Dunkirk can be limited during peak carnival days, so visitors are advised to use public transport where possible. Special arrangements are often made to increase accessibility, with additional transport services and signage to help visitors navigate the festival areas.

Location and Nearby Attractions

Dunkirk is located in northern France, close to the Belgian border, making it a popular destination for visitors from across Europe. The carnival is spread throughout the city, with many events centered around Place Saint-Valentin and the Town Hall. While in Dunkirk, visitors can explore the Dunkirk Maritime Museum, which provides insights into the city’s seafaring history, and Dunkirk’s beautiful sandy beaches, which are just a short distance from the city center. Nearby, the historic Fort des Dunes and the picturesque Flemish villages make for excellent day trips.

History

The origins of Dunkirk Carnival date back to the early 17th century when local fishermen would gather for a grand feast before setting off on long fishing expeditions to Iceland and Newfoundland. The carnival became a way to celebrate and support the fishermen’s journey, offering them a memorable send-off filled with music and festivities. Over the years, this celebration evolved into a community-wide event, integrating local traditions and welcoming visitors from beyond Dunkirk. Since 1999, an association known as “Les Amis du Reuze de Dunkerque” has reintroduced “giants,” large wicker mannequins symbolizing folk heritage, adding yet another layer to this unique festival’s traditions.

Mardi Gras in France

Carnival season in France is a vibrant time filled with festive parades, masquerades, and traditional foods that usher in Mardi Gras celebrations. Apart from the Dunkirk Carnival, the season brings lively events across cities like Nice, Annecy, Mulhouse, and Dunkirk. The Nice Carnival features illuminated floats and the famed Flower Parade, while Annecy’s Venetian Carnival sees masked participants wandering the streets. Mulhouse boasts grand parades and satirical events, and Dunkirk is famous for its herring toss and costumed revelry. Each city offers a unique take on this cherished tradition.