Things to do in Calais

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Throughout the year there is a wonderful range of cultural and sporting events that visitors can enjoy in Calais but it is the Christmas period that brings with it a particularly busy period with the whole town getting involved in the festivities from shop window competitions to parades and illuminations.

But it is not only the town of Calais that has some fantastic entertainment but the whole region. Travel into the surrounding villages and the other major towns in the area to discover exactly what the Nord-Pas-de-Calais has to offer.

If you want to find out exactly what is taking place during your visit, then your should contact the local tourist office who will be able to provide you with a detailed programme.

Read more on this destination in the AA Key Guide to France.

Top Calais events

May

Rand’Opale - This hiking competitions starts and finishes in the town of Leubringhen which is around 15minutes from Calais. There are a number of different routes depending on ability with more than 3 thousands enthusiasts taking part every year.

Foire de Calais - A large annual trade fair that takes place in Calais with over 60 exhibitors.

Printemps des Musees - This takes place all over France, not just in Calais, when for one day museums open their doors free of charge to make art and culture available to everyone and anyone interested.

July

Bastille Day - On the 14th July this day is celebrated across the country with many events taking place including gatherings, parades and firework displays.

August

Flea Market - On the first weekend in August every year there a large flea market is held in Calais.

Christmas
Calais Christmas Lights - At this festive time of year the town literally comes to life with lights adorning all the main attractions and shopping streets.

Christmas Market - Over 100 market stalls are laid out from the municipal theatre to the city centre selling a variety of Christmas decorations, gifts ideas and local produce and speciality dishes.

Christmas Shop Window Contest - What a wonderful way to encourage shops to decorate their windows with festive scenes and products and it is down to the customers to decide the winners as they get to enjoy displays.

Christmas Parade - The parade starts in the middle of the afternoon and consists of Father Christmas on his sleigh being led around the main streets of the city.

Grand Turkey Parade - This is the highlight of the Christmas season when turkeys are paraded through the town before being eaten.