Dunkirk Carnival

A true symbol of the city, the Dunkirk Carnival takes over the streets for three months each year, peaking during Mardi Gras week. Parades and street parties draw thousands of locals and visitors, all dressed in wildly creative costumes called clet’ches, made from old clothes and topped with colorful umbrellas. One of the most iconic moments? When the mayor throws smoked herrings from the Town Hall balcony — a quirky tradition that dates back to the post-WWII reconstruction era. Though the carnival itself is even older. It began in the 17th century as a send-off party for fishermen about to spend months at sea. Since their clothes were already packed, they came dressed in their wives’ outfits — a tradition that lives on today. Music, dancing, outlandish outfits — it’s a celebration of community, identity, and history, drawing nearly 50,000 people a day during its peak. If you want to experience the heart and soul of Dunkirk, this is it.