
Carnaval De Dunkerque - Premières lignes
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Carnival Essentials
In Dunkirk, all five of your senses will come alive… and you might even discover a sixth: the spirit of celebration!
To make the most of your carnival experience, we’ve put together the ultimate Carnival-Goer’s Survival Kit: a code of conduct to know inside out, a carnival glossary, practical information and a few fun facts that make our Carnival such a unique tradition!
To make the most of your carnival experience, we’ve put together the ultimate Carnival-Goer’s Survival Kit: a code of conduct to know inside out, a carnival glossary, practical information and a few fun facts that make our Carnival such a unique tradition!

Carnaval Dunkerque Musicien Cud Pierre Volot
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The Origins of the Dunkirk Carnival
It takes a fair amount of optimism to explain the origins of the carnival frenzy that sweeps across the Dunkirk coastline every year! A few intrepid historians have tried to unravel the mystery, and they generally agree that it all began in the early 17th century, with celebrations organised by shipowners before Dunkirk’s sailors set off to fish for cod off the coast of Iceland.

Carnaval Dress Code Jeanlouisburnod 24 2
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What to Wear to the Carnival
A clet’che is simply a carnival-goer’s costume, and therefore part of their identity. Most masquelours (regular carnival-goers) never change theirs. They become known by their carnival nicknames, such as Pizza Pie, the Jolly Green Giant, Big Ears, Pompon, Widow Frédo and the Majorette…
There are no rules when it comes to putting together a costume, and some carnival-goers get very creative. Many men traditionally dress as women, but this is by no means compulsory. Here are some of the key elements of a typical carnival outfit…
There are no rules when it comes to putting together a costume, and some carnival-goers get very creative. Many men traditionally dress as women, but this is by no means compulsory. Here are some of the key elements of a typical carnival outfit…

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2027 Dunkirk Carnival Dates
The Carnival season lasts for three months, with the highlight of the Dunkirk Carnival falling during Mardi Gras week. Some carnival-goers even take time off work to enjoy this sacred time of year! You’ll need an iron constitution to keep up with the pace, between Saturday night carnival balls and the Sunday, Monday and Tuesday parades…!

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The Carnival Bands’ Routes
Put on your clet’che (Carnival costume), apply your best make-up and come join the parade! Expect a fantastic atmosphere, a warm welcome and plenty of joie de vivre. It’s a chance to share unforgettable moments that will send shivers down your spine as you sing along to carnival songs and dance to the sound of the fifes!
