Events and festivals in Normandy

From film festivals to mediaeval festivals, from gastronomic festivals to historical re-enactments, there are plenty of events not to be missed.

Normandy is rich in traditions and festivals that are renewed every year with all the charm of tradition and folklore.

We highlight the most important events by month.

February

Carnival – Granville

The carnival of Granville, in Cotantin, is renowned for its ancient origins linked to the town’s maritime history: in fact, the cod fishermen, before leaving for 8 months of hard work in the middle of the ocean, would give themselves over to the madness of carnival for 4 days of dressing up and madness. Website

March

Festival du cinema nordique – Rouen

In the wonderful city of the Impressionists, Rouen, this film festival dedicated to northern European cinema is held. Website

May

Jazz sous les pommiers – Coutances

This beautiful town hosts an important jazz festival that attracts many enthusiasts. Website

Joan of Arc Days – Rouen

The town commemorates the tragic end of Joan of Arc with a medieval market, costume parades, concerts and religious re-enactments. Website

Sailors’ Festival – Honfleur

Don’t miss this marvellous sailors’ festival with a blessing of the sea at high tide. Website

June

Medieval Days – Les Andelys

Really nice medieval days full of history and charm.

Summer Festival – Fécamp

Under the cliffs of Fécamp, a festival of music and the sea is celebrated with events and concerts. Website

Normandy-Day – Throughout the region

On 6 June, commemorations and celebrations are held at the landing sites.

Archeo Jazz – Blainville Crevon

In this small town a stone’s throw from Rouen, a jazz and contemporary music festival is held at the medieval sites. Website

July

Medieval festivals – Bayeux

Medieval festivals in the beautiful town of Bayeux. Website

Sea Festival – Trouville-sur-mer

The Sea and Mackerel Festival is held every year in Trouville-sur-mer, a tasty gastronomic event dedicated to the delicacies of local seafood with a blessing and musical entertainment. Website

Armada – Rouen

Impressive gathering of sailing ships on the Seine. Website

Vivre Terre de Mysteres – Epreville en Lieuvin

This village in the countryside behind the Cote Fleurie holds this fantastic historical re-enactment at night inside the castle with comedians, knights and costumed figures.