Opening Ceremony and Key Handover
Gather early at the Calvaire roundabout to see the ceremonial key handover and enjoy the free opening concert. It's a festive, spirited start to the event.
~18:30
Granville Carnival
Carnaval de Granville
Granville, France
Feb 5 - 9, 2027Expected
Each year before Lent, the Normandy port of Granville throws one of France's oldest and largest carnivals, born long ago among its fishermen. Giant satirical floats and costumed crowds fill the streets for a week, ending in a wild confetti battle, in a celebration honored by UNESCO.
Key moments
Day 1 · Feb 5
Day 3 · Feb 7
Grand Cavalcade (Main Parade)
Arrive by 13:00 to secure a good spot along the port. Expect loud music, creative floats, and flying confetti. Consider wearing goggles or hats—confetti and foam may be thrown!
~13:30
Day 5 · Feb 9
King Carnival Execution & Confetti Battle
Join in the fun! The confetti battle showers attendees with paper bits—wear something you don’t mind getting sticky. It’s party time so bring energy and a camera for this colorful climax.
~16:30
Where it happens
Place du Marché (market square)
Granville, France
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Respect local boundaries
No special protocols; visitors are encouraged to join openly but should respect the local f...
Read the local rhythm
Standard respectful behavior; join festivities respectfully and follow any instructions fro...
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Major parade routes become very crowded; more space near food stalls and in side streets.
Weather
Cold winter weather (often around 5°C); possible rain. Bring warm and waterproof clothing.
Transport
Regional Nomad buses (e.g., lines 305, 307) connect Granville with Normandy towns
Tickets
Free events are available.
Safety & access
Generally very safe; well-organized by local authorities with police presence. Normal urban safety precautions apply.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Granville Carnival
Carnaval de Granville
Granville, France
Each year before Lent, the Normandy port of Granville throws one of France's oldest and largest carnivals, born long ago among its fishermen. Giant satirical floats and costumed crowds fill the streets for a week, ending in a wild confetti battle, in a celebration honored by UNESCO.
AnchorCultural anchor
Feb 5 - 9, 2027Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
Originating in the Middle Ages, this fishermen’s carnival reflects pre-Lenten customs. The entire town of Granville becomes a stage; carnival balls, coronations of the King and Queen of Carnival, and a “bataille de confettis” define the local tradition. Its UNESCO status highlights deep community meaning.
Key moments to know
Day 1Feb 5~18:30Expected
Opening Ceremony and Key Handover
Gather early at the Calvaire roundabout to see the ceremonial key handover and enjoy the free opening concert. It's a festive, spirited start to the event.
Day 3Feb 7~13:30Expected
Grand Cavalcade (Main Parade)
Arrive by 13:00 to secure a good spot along the port. Expect loud music, creative floats, and flying confetti. Consider wearing goggles or hats—confetti and foam may be thrown!
Day 5Feb 9~16:30Expected
King Carnival Execution & Confetti Battle
Join in the fun! The confetti battle showers attendees with paper bits—wear something you don’t mind getting sticky. It’s party time so bring energy and a camera for this colorful climax.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Respect local boundaries
No special protocols; visitors are encouraged to join openly but should respect the local festivities (e.g. cos...
Read the local rhythm
Standard respectful behavior; join festivities respectfully and follow any instructions from organizers or auth...
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Feb 5 - 9, 2027
Estimated
City / Area
Granville
Manche/Normandy (Granville)
Access
Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport (RNS) · 85 km from festival
Cost
Free entry
Budget: €50-80, Mid: €100-150, Luxury: €200+
Atmosphere
Very lively and festive atmosphere, with music and cheering through...
Major parade routes become very crowded; more space near...
Good for
Families, culture enthusiasts
Very High visitor welcome
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