Bain des Givrés
The New Year's dip in the North Sea at Dunkerque
About Bain des Givrés
Le Bain des Givrés is a Dunkerque tradition that brings together hundreds of brave souls every January 1st for a collective plunge into the icy waters of the North Sea, on Malo-les-Bains beach. A festive and friendly event, it marks the transition to the New Year and is the prelude to the famous Dunkerque Carnival. Participants, often in costume, jump into the water at noon sharp in front of the Café Malouin, cheered on by thousands of spectators who come to witness this joyful and thrilling spectacle.
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Le Bain des Givrés: Icy Dip and Dunkerque Tradition
Every January 1st at noon, the beach of Malo-les-Bains in Dunkerque is the scene of a unique spectacle: hundreds of intrepid swimmers plunge into the cold waters of the North Sea to celebrate the New Year. The Bain des Givrés has become an unmissable event over the years, blending tradition, courage, and good cheer.
A Festive and Popular Ritual
From 11 am, the "givrés" (frosty ones) gather on the Malo-les-Bains promenade, in front of the Café Malouin. Many come in costume, with outfits of superheroes, cartoon characters, or wacky attire, adding a carnival-like touch to the event. At noon sharp, at the signal, everyone rushes into the water for a dip that rarely lasts more than a few minutes, but the memory of which remains long-lasting.
A Prelude to the Dunkerque Carnival
The Bain des Givrés is traditionally considered the unofficial kickoff to the Dunkerque Carnival, the grand popular festival that animates the city from January to March. The spirit of conviviality, mockery, and fraternity that characterizes the dip is also found throughout the Dunkerque carnival festivities.
A Record-Breaking Event
Over the years, the Bain des Givrés has seen its attendance grow considerably. Participation records are regularly broken, with several hundred swimmers and thousands of spectators gathered on the promenade. The event is widely covered by regional and national media, contributing to Dunkerque's reputation.
Solidarity and Conviviality
Beyond the sporting challenge, the Bain des Givrés is also a moment of solidarity and sharing. Local associations participate in the organization and use the event to raise awareness for various causes. After the dip, participants warm up with mulled wine or hot chocolate in the establishments along the promenade, extending the convivial atmosphere of this first day of the year.
Bain des Givrés — edition 2026
The 2026 Bain des Givrés will take place on January 1st at noon on Malo-les-Bains beach in Dunkerque. Gathering from 11 am in front of the Café Malouin.
2026 Edition - January 1st
Join us on January 1st, 2026 at noon on Malo-les-Bains beach, in front of the Café Malouin (66 bis Digue de Mer), for the traditional Bain des Givrés. Gathering from 11 am. Come in costume!
Programme Bain des Givrés 2026
Program
- 11 am: gathering on the promenade in front of the Café Malouin
- 12 pm: collective plunge into the North Sea
Highlights Bain des Givrés 2026
- New Year's dip in Malo-les-Bains
- Prelude to the Dunkerque Carnival
Prices Bain des Givrés 2026
Practical information — Bain des Givrés
Practical Information
Location
The Bain des Givrés takes place on the beach of Malo-les-Bains, in front of the Café Malouin, 66 bis Digue de Mer, 59240 Dunkerque. The gathering is on the promenade, facing the North Sea.
Access and Transport
By car: A25 motorway from Lille (approx. 1 hour). Parking is available along the Malo-les-Bains promenade and in adjacent streets. Please note: parking can be difficult on New Year's Day, so arrive early.
By train: Dunkerque station, served by TER trains from Lille-Flandres (1 hour 15 minutes). From the station, take DK'Bus line C3 towards Malo-les-Bains (15 minutes) or walk 25 minutes to the promenade.
By bus: DK'Bus network, line C3 stop "Digue de Mer" or "Casino". Check special schedules for January 1st.
Timings
Gathering from 11 am on the promenade, in front of the Café Malouin. The collective plunge takes place at noon sharp. The event lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, including the gathering, the dip, and the convivial warming-up in the bars along the promenade.
Prices
The event is completely free. Participation is voluntary and open to all, with no prior registration required. There is no minimum age, but minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Safety
Rescue and surveillance teams are present on the beach during the event. It is recommended not to stay in the water for too long (sea temperature is usually between 5 and 8 degrees Celsius in January). Individuals with heart or circulatory problems should seek medical advice before participating.
Food and Post-Dip
The bars and restaurants along the Malo-les-Bains promenade (including the Café Malouin) welcome participants after the dip to warm up with mulled wine, hot chocolate, or coffee. A friendly atmosphere is guaranteed.
Practical Tips
- Bring a large towel and warm, dry clothes to change into immediately after the dip.
- Dressing up is highly encouraged – it's tradition! – but not mandatory.
- The event takes place regardless of the weather.
- No prior registration is necessary: simply show up on the promenade before noon.
- Remember to protect your personal belongings and phone in a waterproof bag.
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Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Bain des Givrés at the best price.
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Where does it take place — Bain des Givrés
Plage de Malo-les-Bains
66 bis Digue de Mer, Malo-les-Bains, 59240 Dunkerque