Boulogne Fête de la Mer

Boulogne-sur-Mer, capital of the sea

Boulogne-sur-Mer is France's leading fishing port and Europe's foremost seafood processing center. This age-old maritime identity is celebrated every two years during the Fête de la Mer, a major event that transforms the port and the town into a huge popular festival for four days.

A gathering of tall ships and traditional boats

The highlight of the Fête de la Mer is the gathering of tall ships and traditional boats in the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Vessels from France, England, the Netherlands, and Belgium anchor in the basin, offering a striking maritime spectacle. Visitors can:

• Visit the ships: board the tall ships and heritage boats
• Embark on sea trips: discover the Boulogne coastline from the sea aboard traditional sailboats
• Attend the nautical parade: a procession of boats in the port and along the coast

The maritime know-how village

On the quays, a village of maritime know-how and traditions brings together players from the world of the sea: artisans, maritime heritage associations, model makers, rope makers, caulkers, and demonstrations of traditional techniques. This educational village allows visitors to understand the history and trades of the sea.

The sea market

A sea market offers the best of Boulogne and regional fishing products: fish, shellfish, crustaceans, smoked fish, and maritime specialties. Visitors can enjoy seafood platters, moules-frites (mussels and fries), and other coastal specialties.

Sea shanties and shows

The Fête de la Mer is also a cultural event with sea shanty concerts, maritime folk groups, street performances, and musical entertainment on the quays. The atmosphere is festive, friendly, and family-oriented.

The blessing of the sea

The blessing of the sea is a solemn and moving moment that perpetuates a centuries-old tradition of the Boulonnais region. This ceremony pays tribute to sailors lost at sea and calls for divine protection for those who still go to sea. The families of sailors, fishermen, and residents gather for this moment of remembrance, which recalls the unbreakable link between Boulogne and the ocean.