Grande Ducasse de Fourmies
The biggest funfair in the south of Avesnois
About Ducasse de Fourmies
The Grande Ducasse de Fourmies is one of the largest funfairs in Northern France. A centuries-old tradition of the northern festive heritage, it brings together nearly 60 rides, attractions, and fairground stalls every July for about ten days in the streets of Fourmies. This popular festival, whose origins date back several centuries, attracts tens of thousands of visitors from all over the south of Avesnois and beyond. The ducasse is a moment of conviviality, reunion, and shared joy between generations.
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The Grande Ducasse: a tradition rooted in the history of Fourmies
The word "ducasse" comes from Picard and refers to the patronal festival of a village or town, a tradition deeply rooted in the culture of Northern France. The Grande Ducasse de Fourmies is one of the oldest and most important in the Nord department, with over 175 editions to its credit. It is the major festive event of the town and the south of Avesnois.
A temporary amusement park
For about ten days, between the second and third weekends of July, the streets and squares of Fourmies host nearly 60 rides and attractions: Ferris wheel, bumper cars, roller coasters, thrill rides, shooting galleries, duck fishing, cotton candy, candy apples, and many other fairground pleasures. Enough to satisfy all ages and all desires for thrills.
Entertainment and festivities
Beyond the rides, the Grande Ducasse offers various entertainment throughout the event: open-air concerts, parades, popular dances, fireworks, and street entertainment. The official opening features a festive inauguration with the presence of fairground operators and local elected officials.
A family and popular event
The ducasse is above all a family and popular festival. Families gather there from generation to generation, perpetuating a tradition passed down from parents to children. Ride prices remain affordable, and reduced-price days are often offered to allow as many people as possible to enjoy the festivities.
A highlight of Fourmies life
For the inhabitants of Fourmies and the surrounding region, the Grande Ducasse is more than just a funfair: it is a moment of local pride, reunion, and collective celebration. It contributes to the economic dynamism and attractiveness of this town in Avesnois.
Ducasse de Fourmies — edition 2026
178th edition of the Grande Ducasse de Fourmies, scheduled for July 2026.
178th Edition - July 2026
The Grande Ducasse de Fourmies will return in July 2026 for its 178th edition. Dates and program to be confirmed.
Prices Ducasse de Fourmies 2026
Practical information — Ducasse de Fourmies
Practical Information
Location
The Grande Ducasse takes over the main streets and squares of Fourmies town center, 59610 Fourmies. The rides and attractions are spread throughout the central streets, transforming the town into a huge amusement park for the duration of the event.
Access and transport
By car: RN2 from Maubeuge (30 min) or from Laon (1h). D951 from Avesnes-sur-Helpe (20 min). Free parking near the town center and in adjacent streets. Warning: some town center streets are closed to traffic during the ducasse.
By train: Fourmies station, served by the TER Maubeuge-Hirson line. The station is a few minutes' walk from the town center and the rides.
By bus: Intercity bus lines from Maubeuge and the towns of Avesnois.
Dates
The Grande Ducasse traditionally takes place between the 2nd and 3rd weekends of July, for 10 to 12 consecutive days. The official inauguration takes place on the first Friday.
Opening Hours
Rides open in the early afternoon (2 p.m. - 3 p.m.) until the evening (11 p.m. - midnight). Extended hours on weekends with late nights until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Hours may vary depending on the attractions and weather conditions.
Prices
Access to the funfair grounds is free. Rides are paid, with variable prices depending on the ride (generally from 2 to 5 euros per ride). Reduced-price days are occasionally offered, especially on weekdays. Some fairground operators offer discounts for bulk purchases of tokens or rides.
Food and drink
Numerous fairground food stalls offer ducasse classics: fries, burgers, crepes, waffles, cotton candy, candy apples, churros, and sweets. Fourmies' restaurants and brasseries are also open during the event.
Security
A security system is in place by the town hall for the entire duration of the ducasse. Security guards, first responders, and law enforcement ensure the smooth running of the event.
Practical Tips
- Come at the beginning of the week to enjoy the ducasse with fewer crowds.
- Watch for special offers and reduced-price days announced on the town hall website.
- Bring change for the rides and food stalls.
- Weekend evenings are the liveliest, with a festive atmosphere late into the night.
Contact
Fourmies Town Hall: 03 27 59 69 97. www.fourmies.fr
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Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Ducasse de Fourmies at the best price.
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Where does it take place — Ducasse de Fourmies
Centre-ville de Fourmies
Centre-ville, 59610 Fourmies