When autumn drapes its golden cloak over Normandy and the chill of the sea air sharpens the appetite, there begins one of the region’s most cherished seasonal traditions: the Scallop Festivals of Normandy. Taking place from October 4th to December 7th, 2025, these vibrant celebrations honor the start of the scallop fishing season—a time when coastal communities come alive with music, markets, maritime culture, and, of course, mouthwatering seafood.
Whether you’re a gourmet traveler, a cultural explorer, or simply someone in search of an unforgettable experience, Normandy’s scallop festivals offer a unique window into the region’s heritage and culinary soul.
🐚 A Historic Tradition of the Sea
Scallops—known locally as coquilles Saint-Jacques—have long been a symbol of Normandy’s deep connection to the sea. The scallop season traditionally begins in early October, when fishing boats set sail into the chilly waters of the English Channel to harvest this prized shellfish.
For centuries, fishermen in ports like Port-en-Bessin, Grandcamp-Maisy, Courseulles-sur-Mer, and Ouistreham have relied on the bounty of the sea to sustain their communities. The scallop, delicate yet full of flavor, quickly became one of the region’s gastronomic emblems. Over time, what began as a moment of economic importance transformed into an annual cultural celebration—where villagers, chefs, artists, and visitors come together to welcome the sea’s gift.
🦪 A Festival for the Senses
The scallop festivals, collectively known as “Fête de la Coquille Saint-Jacques”, stretch across Normandy’s coastal towns for more than two months, each weekend bringing the festivities to a different harbor. What awaits you is a rich blend of gastronomy, tradition, and community spirit.
What to Expect:
-
Scallop Festival 2024 in Ouistreham – hotel-caen.com Fresh Scallops and Seafood Tastings: Enjoy scallops seared in butter, served raw as carpaccio, or infused into creamy Normandy sauces. Local oysters, mussels, and fish also feature prominently.
- Cooking Demonstrations: Watch top chefs prepare scallop dishes live—often incorporating local cider, cream, and apples for that distinctive Norman twist.
- Fish Markets and Fishermen’s Stalls: Buy scallops direct from the boats, still in their shells, and meet the fishermen who harvested them hours earlier.
- Music and Maritime Parades: Sea shanties, bagpipes, and folk dances set the mood as costumed parades and boat displays celebrate Normandy’s seafaring identity.
- Crafts and Regional Products: Pick up locally made cheeses, cider, Calvados, and sea-salt caramels. Artisan booths also feature crafts inspired by the sea.
📍 Key Festival Locations and Dates (2025)
Here are some highlights of the 2025 scallop festival season, though specific dates may vary slightly by town:
- 04–05 October – Ouistreham: The season kicks off in this lively port town near Caen. Expect bustling markets and family-friendly events.
- 11–12 October – Port-en-Bessin-Huppain: One of the most picturesque venues, this fishing harbor near Bayeux celebrates with flair, offering sea tours and scallop-themed menus at every café.
- 18–19 October – Grandcamp-Maisy: Between the D-Day beaches and the sea, Grandcamp delivers a warm, authentic festival with plenty of local color.
- 08–09 November – Courseulles-sur-Mer: With cooking contests and maritime exhibits, this town brings a gourmet edge to the celebrations.
- 06–07 December – Trouville-sur-Mer: The season ends in style with a chic festival along the Côte Fleurie, where scallops meet elegance and tradition.
🌊 More Than Just a Seafood Feast
Attending a scallop festival in Normandy isn’t just about food—it’s about connecting with a way of life. The festivals are intimate, community-driven events where visitors can experience the rhythm of the sea, the pride of local traditions, and the hospitality of coastal towns.
You’ll meet fishermen who still use sustainable dredging techniques, chefs who share secret family recipes, and musicians who carry on ancient sea songs. It’s an immersion into a culture that values craftsmanship, storytelling, and the quiet joys of seasonal living.
🛏️ Where to Stay: Coastal Charm or Country Calm
If you’re planning a visit to one or more scallop festivals, you can choose between staying harborside—close to the boats and festivities—or enjoying the serene countryside, just a short drive from the coast. Many charming bed and breakfasts offer cozy accommodations, local delicacies, and personal recommendations to help you explore the region.
One such retreat is Les Trois Fenêtres, located in the heart of Normandy’s countryside. Just under an hour from key festival towns like Port-en-Bessin, Grandcamp-Maisy, and Courseulles, it offers a tranquil escape after a day of indulgence, with hearty breakfasts and fireside relaxation.
✨ Final Thought: A Toast to the Sea
Normandy’s scallop festivals are a celebration of more than just shellfish—they’re a tribute to the sea that feeds, the people who harvest, and the culture that endures. Come hungry, come curious, and come ready to experience one of France’s most soulful regional traditions.
Mark your calendar for October 4 – December 7, 2025, and dive into Normandy’s scallop season!🐚✨
🌐 Official Resources for Normandy’s Scallop Festivals
-
Normandy Tourism: Scallop Festivals Overview
The official Normandy tourism website provides comprehensive information on scallop festivals occurring from October 4 to December 7, 2025.
🔗 https://en.normandie-tourisme.fr/highlight/scallop-festivals/ -
Le Goût du Large – Port-en-Bessin Festival
Details about the “Le Goût du Large” festival in Port-en-Bessin, celebrating fishing and seafood on November 11 & 12, 2025.
🔗 https://bayeux-bessin-tourisme.com/en/major-events/le-gout-du-largemaisondenormandie.com -
Foire aux Harengs et à la Coquille Saint-Jacques – Dieppe
Information on Dieppe’s Herring and Scallop Fair, scheduled for November 15 & 16, 2025.
🔗 https://www.dieppetourisme.com/agenda/foire-aux-harengs-et-a-la-coquille-saint-jacques/ -
Scallop Festival – Ouistreham Riva-Bella
Insights into the annual scallop festival in Ouistreham, highlighting maritime culture and culinary delights.
🔗 https://www.caenlamer-tourisme.com/major-event/scallop-festival/ -
Agenda autour de la coquille – Calvados Region
A calendar of events related to scallop fishing and festivals in the Calvados department from mid-October to mid-December.
🔗 https://www.vivredanslecalvados.com/agenda-autour-de-la-coquille/
