We rediscovered the city with the film by Gilles Lellouche, L'Amour Ouf, and since then, we can’t help but want to take a trip to Dunkirk for a spring and summer getaway. The good news? This little Nordic treasure by the sea is just 50 minutes by car and about thirty minutes by TGV and bus (free in Dunkirk!) from Lille. Isn’t life beautiful?
As a port and beach resort of choice for all the locals, Dunkirk is the perfect destination for a seaside adventure, especially since the city is bustling with iconic cultural events. From music festivals to historical celebrations, mouth-watering openings, and all sorts of deals, here are 6 must-see events that will help you discover Dunkirk in a whole new light.
1. The Opening of the Halles des Sœurs Blanches
Here’s some news to delight all food lovers! Located on the Cours François-Bart, right in the heart of the city,Les Halles des Sœurs Blanches will unveil on May 21st over 1,000 m2 of space, featuring a chic architecture that blends wood, metal, and glass. What’s on the agenda? Fresh and local products galore with about twenty vendors and food artisans, offering Dunkerquois and tourists a new foodie hotspot. You’ll find farmers, butchers, cheesemongers, stores, bakeries-pâtisseries, Italian specialties, Asian catering, local beers, an oyster bar, light dining, and even Michelin-starred cuisine showcasing Flemish specialties by chef Florent Ladeyn. In short, there will be something for every taste and craving!
© Basalt Architectures
The Halles of the White Sisters
Cours François-Bart – Dunkirk
To be discovered starting May 21, 2025
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Wednesday, Saturday: 8 AM – 7 PM
Sunday: 10 AM – 2 PM
2. Historical Celebrations at the Heart of Dunkirk
You all know that Dunkirk is a key point in French history. And this year, 2025, two anniversaries will be celebrated. First, the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo, a significant event of World War II, when British Allied soldiers evacuated the city, its beaches, and its port in 1940. Finally, we also celebrate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Dunkirk, one of the very last French towns recaptured from the Germans in 1945. On this occasion, the city...It plans several highlights and festivities, including the arrival of the “Little Ships” (boats that participated in the evacuation) from May 21 to 26; and especially, the stop of the Video Mapping Festival from May 22 to 25 at Frac Grand Large / AP2. A direct dive into the heart of History with a monumental 180 °C projection – MEMORY, when memory fades, history begins anew – a unique and immersive creation, to never forget...
© Rencontres Audiovisuelles
MEMORY, when memory fades, history begins anew
Halle AP2 – Frac Grand Large
503, avenue des Bancs de Flandres – Dunkerque
Free
More info
3. The Gigapuces, the giant flea market of Dunkerque
Attention all lovers of second-hand treasures and enthusiastic treasure hunters! The Gigapuces are back in Dunkerque on Thursday, May 29th! From 8 AM to 6 PM, the city center turns into a massive garage sale, filling all its main streets, with three themed villages: Fripe Style (vintage clothing and accessories), De Chic et de Broc (antiques) and the Gr
a Village (eco-friendly solutions & engaged actors). The perfect plan to shop at sweet prices, with non-stop entertainment all around the city center featuring lively brass bands, fiery DJ sets, and hilarious street performances, all driven by a sustainable concept that’s good for the planet.
© CUD
Gigapuces
Downtown Dunkirk
Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 8 AM to 6 PM
More info
4. La Bonne Aventure, a 100% Free Music Festival
If you're the kind of person who loves to tap their feet as soon as the sun peeks out, Dunkirk has everything to satisfy your cravings. From June 20 to 22, the city will be buzzing with the vibes of the La Bonne Aventure festival, a musical event we all love, and guess what? It's 100% free too! On the lineup, you won't be disappointed with international stars like MC Solaar, Vald, The Avener, Adèle Castillon, Caballero & Jeanjass, and Acid Arab. All this in a dreamy seaside setting with loads of activities. So, shall we meet there?
© Pierre Volot / CUD
La Bonne Aventure
From June 20 to 22, 2025
Free festival
More info
5. The arrival of the Tour de France 2025
Bike lovers, you can't miss it! It's right here in Dunkirk that the arrival of the 3rd stage of the Tour de France will be judged on July 7. While we may not know the winner yet, one thing is certain: it’s going to be super fast… The racers will arrive from Valenciennes, after covering 178 km! That's just the beginning. With 21 stages and over 3,500 km to travel, it’s just the start of a grand adventure. Ready to cheer them on?
© Pierre Volot / CUD
Arrival of the Tour de France 2025
Rue de la Cunette – Dunkirk
More info
6. The arrival of the world's largest sailboats with the Voiles de Légende
For all of you who love to set sail, here's a summery event that will spark your wanderlust! The largest sailboats in the world will gather from July 10 to 13 in Dunkirk, the City of Privateers, for the arrival of the Voiles de Légende, a major nautical event in the city. The idea? To bring together traditional tall ships, classic vessels, and prestige yachts to create a truly spectacular show. From the Belem to the Duchesse-Anne, over 40 ships will be waiting for you during this stage of the international race.The Tall Ships Races.
© Sail Training International
Legendary Sails Dunkirk
From July 10 to 13, 2025
More info
