1h from Lille, a Christmas we wish we could have in our own city
Every year, Dunkirk transforms into a winter wonderland. And not just with a few decorations: the entire city sparkles, as if the North Pole decorations decided to set up shop by the shore. Last year, over 300,000 visitors got swept away in this luminous escapade… and this year’s edition promises to be even more exciting.
Do you see the Christmas magic that we sometimes seek in big capital cities? It’s right there, just next door.
The Christmas market, the big wheel, and a giant ice rink
On the Jean-Bart square, there are 44 chalets, 32 exhibitors, a raclette bar, a 500 m² ice rink, and a big wheel that lifts you up to enjoy the view of the beautifully lit city.
The perfect combo: a waffle, a hot chocolate, a little glide on the ice, and suddenly… everything seems a bit more magical.
Just a couple of steps away, Charles-Valentin Square has its charming carousel and free sledding track back: the real Christmas treat that makes the eyes of children sparkle just as much as those of adults who don’t completely own up to going back “to accompany” them.
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The Christmas Parade: 13 Characters and a Giant Locomotive
It's one of the most anticipated moments: the grand parade on December 14th. Starting at 5 PM, the city center fills up with brass bands, mascots, fairy tale characters, and especially an amazing giant steam locomotive that kicks off the festivities.
Of course, Santa Claus brings up the rear, surrounded by a shower of lights and music. If you want to revive your inner child in just 30 minutes, this is the place to be.
Santa's Castle: A Magical Setting in the City Hall
Inside the City Hall, a fairy-tale setting comes to life: Santa's Castle.
This year, the white room transforms into a full-on elf village, complete with animatronics, surprises, souvenir photos, and more!
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The Wonder Trail: a festival of lights throughout the city
From December 5 to January 4, Dunkirk becomes a nighttime exploration playground.
The Wonder Trail features 11 digital works in nine iconic locations: magical lamps, a luminous urban safari, an immersive installation with echoes of ice… It's poetic, a bit whimsical, and truly enchanting!hypnotic and unique in the region.
And the wonderful market (December 20-21) completes the experience: 54 dedicated exhibitors, decorative objects, gourmet grocery items, handmade creations, woodwork, stained glass, and upcycled pieces. A true treasure trove to finish your gifts stress-free.
A city that embraces magic until the very end
Ice rinks, electro dance parties, skating galas, winter fairs, activities everywhere... Dunkirk the Enchanted rolls out a program that keeps the city vibrant. For over a month, everything sparkles, everything comes alive, and everything encourages you to go out: even when the northern wind nips a bit. And honestly?
Having a Noël of this magnitude just an hour away from Lille is a luxury that doesn't get highlighted enough.
Dunkirk the Enchanted
Dunkirk
From November 29, 2025, to January 4, 2026