Carnaval d'Arras

The Fabulous Carnival of the World in Arras

The Carnaval d'Arras is part of the great carnival tradition of Northern France. Every year, in the heart of spring, the city of Arras transforms into a huge open-air theater to host its Fabulous Carnival of the World. This festive and popular event brings together thousands of spectators along the streets of the city center to admire the colorful parade.

The procession: a spectacular parade

The highlight of the carnival is undoubtedly the grand procession that crosses the historic center of Arras. Dozens of imaginatively decorated floats, accompanied by brass bands, music groups, and costumed troupes, parade in an electric atmosphere. Confetti flies, candy is thrown to children, and music resonates between the Flemish facades of the Grand-Place and the Place des Héros, listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Activities for all ages

The carnival is not just about the parade. Throughout the day, various activities are offered: face painting for children, creative workshops, street performances, and games. A popular ball traditionally concludes the day, allowing locals and visitors to dance and extend the celebration late into the night.

A living tradition of the North

The Arras carnival perpetuates a centuries-old tradition of popular festivities that punctuate the life of the communes in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. The ceremony of handing over the city keys to King Carnival symbolically marks the beginning of the festivities: for one day, it is the carnival that reigns over the city. At the end of the celebration, the effigy of King Carnival is often burned, symbolizing the end of winter and the renewal of spring.

Arras, a historic setting for the carnival

The city of Arras, prefecture of Pas-de-Calais, offers an exceptional setting for this carnival. Its two baroque squares lined with arcades – the Grand-Place and the Place des Héros – form a unique backdrop in France. The belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site, overlooks the procession and gives the parade a rare heritage dimension. Participating in the Carnaval d'Arras means experiencing a moment of celebration in one of the most beautiful architectural ensembles in Northern France.

A unifying event

Supported by the municipality and numerous local associations, the Carnaval d'Arras is a true unifying event. Schools, leisure centers, sports and cultural associations participate in the construction of the floats and the animation of the procession, making the carnival a collective project that strengthens the Arras community.