There are events that fill an afternoon. And then there are those that completely take over an entire city for a whole weekend. From June 19 to 21, Saint-Amand-les-Eaux is celebrating 30 years of its iconic Water Festival with three days of free festivities. This anniversary edition promises XXL shows, concerts, water activities, and a giant parade filled with aquatic creatures. In short, if you're looking for a free outing near Lille this weekend, you’ve probably just found it.
A festival born from the identity of Saint-Amand-les-Eaux
Since the Water Festival has been around for three decades now, it's no coincidence. Saint-Amand-les-Eaux is the only spa town located north of Paris. Since ancient times, its springs have shaped its history and identity. In 1996, the municipality decided to create a big popular gathering around this essential element that defines the area.
named after the city: water. Thirty years later, the bet has been largely successful. Every year, thousands of visitors from Hauts-de-France and Belgium come together to enjoy this festive weekend that has become a must-attend event.Check out this post on Instagram
A show of water and fire to kick off the festivities
The celebrations will start on Friday evening at the Scarpe Park. After a festive snack, a giant picnic, and the first DJ set, we’ll get to the most spectacular moment of the evening: a grand show of water and fire!
c;lant projections on a water screen, light shows, water jets, and pyrotechnic effects. For about twenty minutes, the park's body of water will turn into an open-air stage before transforming into an electro evening under the stars.Free kayaking, funk, disco, and disco balls
On Saturday, get ready for a change of atmosphere. We’re heading to the river port where water activities will be exceptional and free. Canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, or pedal boating: it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the water in a different way. Later, in the streets of the city center, the Bitumen Swimmers will provide an artistic parade blending dance and theater, before the evening shifts to a sparkling mode.
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At the Garden of the Abbey Tower, several national and international artists will take the stage for a big funk and disco concert. The lineup includes the likes of Leee John from the group Imagination, Ottawan, Delegation, Joniece Jamison, and even Génération Boney M. It’s safe to say that fans of "Just an Illusion," "D.I.S.C.O.," and other catchy tunes that make you want to dance will be in for a treat.
A gigantic water parade to wrap up the weekend
On Sunday, it’s time for the grand finale. To celebrate 30 years of the festival, a massive parade will wind through the city featuring a dozen professional companies, local associations, decorated floats, costumed bicycles, and giant sea-inspired creatures.
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Pirates, jellyfish, giant fish, fantastical characters, confetti, and squirt guns are set to take over the streets of Saint-Amand-les-Eaux in a giant carnival atmosphere. The parade will end at the foot of the Abbey Tower with a musical finale featuring electro violinist Maëline, after which the festivities will naturally carry on in the town's bars and restaurants for the Music Festival. Three days of free fun, a big anniversary celebration, and activities for all ages: it's hard to find a better excuse to take a trip to Saint-Amand-les-Eaux this weekend!
Water Festival
Saint-Amand-les-Eaux
From June 19 to 21, 2026