Béthune Carnival

The Béthune Carnival: A Festive Tradition of the North

Every year in April, the town of Béthune perpetuates the tradition of the carnivals of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais by organizing a grand popular parade through its streets. For over thirty years, this festive and intergenerational event has brought together the inhabitants of Béthune and surrounding towns in a spirit of conviviality and sharing.

The Grand Carnival Parade

The heart of the carnival is its grand procession, which usually starts in the early afternoon from Place Joffre to reach the Grand'Place. About a thousand carnival-goers don their finest costumes and parade to the rhythm of brass bands, percussion, and lively music. Carnival troupes from all over the region, particularly from Dunkirk, Bailleul, and Steenvoorde, join the parade, bringing their traditions and infectious energy.

Floats and Costumes

Allegorical floats, decorated with creativity and humor, parade alongside giants and costumed groups. Participants compete in imagination to create colorful and original costumes, contributing to the joyful and quirky atmosphere that characterizes the carnivals of the region.

The Rigodon and the Chocolate Toss

Upon the procession's arrival at the Grand'Place, the celebration reaches its peak with the traditional rigodon, a lively collective dance where carnival-goers and spectators mingle in a giant circle. The most anticipated moment for children is the chocolate toss from the balcony of the Town Hall, a tradition that creates memorable scenes of joy each year.

A Lively Carnival Village

From the morning onwards, a carnival village is set up on the Grand'Place with various activities: waiters' race, traditional games, face painting for children, food stalls, and refreshment stands. In the late afternoon, a free concert concludes the day in a festive and relaxed atmosphere.

A Living Heritage

The Béthune Carnival is part of the rich tradition of carnivals in Northern France, recognized for its popular and participatory dimension. It is a moment of social communion where barriers disappear, and the whole town celebrates the return of sunny days together.