Festival of the Scallop

The Scallop Festival: a gastronomic event in Baie de Canche

Since 2018, Étaples-sur-Mer has hosted the Festival of the Scallop Saint-Jacques every spring, an event that celebrates the Pecten Maximus, the true scallop fished by the scallop fishermen of the Étaples fleet in the English Channel and the North Sea. Set up on the port quays, on the edge of the magnificent Baie de Canche, this event combines gastronomy, music, and conviviality in an exceptional natural setting.

The scallop in all its forms

The star of the festival is, of course, the scallop, prepared in multiple ways by local restaurateurs and chefs:

• Pan-seared scallops: Simply seared in butter, they reveal all their flavor.
• Gratinéed scallops: In sauce, with a golden and melting crust.
• Skewers: Grilled, marinated with herbs and spices.
• Seafood platters: Accompanied by oysters, shrimp, and whelks.

Culinary demonstrations

Local chefs host live culinary demonstrations, sharing their recipes and techniques for preparing scallops. These discovery sessions allow visitors to learn how to enhance this exceptional product.

A festive village by the water

The festival offers much more than just tastings. A festive village is set up on the quays with:

• Celtic rock folk concerts: Musical groups liven up the Saturday evening atmosphere.
• Maritime activities: Discover the fishing trades, maritime heritage, and port life.
• Artisan stands: Local products, crafts, and regional creations.
• Children's area: Activities and workshops for the younger ones.

An event driven by volunteers

The Scallop Festival is organized by AS Étaples Football Club with the help of 120 passionate volunteers. This associative commitment gives the event a warm and authentic dimension, where teamwork and conviviality are at the heart of each edition. The event is certified Gastronomy Event of Hauts-de-France.