This autumn, join the celebrations dedicated to the Normandy scallop (Coquille Saint-Jacques), one of the region’s most prized delicacies. Normandy is France’s leading scallop-fishing region, and every year a series of lively festivals and fairs celebrate this iconic seafood specialty.
The Scallop: A Star of the Norman Coast
Did you know that more than seven out of every ten scallops caught in France come from Normandy? Along the coast, especially in Dieppe, Port-en-Bessin, Grandcamp-Maisy and Courseulles-sur-Mer, local fishmongers and restaurants proudly showcase this exceptional product. During the fishing season, visitors can even buy scallops directly from fishermen on the quayside.
The scallop season generally runs from October to May, and Norman scallops benefit from the prestigious Label Rouge, guaranteeing exceptional quality and strict production standards.
Five Great Reasons to Attend a Scallop Festival
- Exceptional freshness. Scallops arrive directly from the fishing boats, and local fishermen are on hand to share stories about their trade.
- A behind-the-scenes look at maritime life. Open fish auctions, boat tours, and demonstrations of traditional seafaring skills offer fascinating insights into Normandy’s coastal heritage.
- Live cooking demonstrations. Enjoy cooking workshops, chef demonstrations, and family activities while learning how to prepare scallops the Norman way.
- A festive atmosphere. Sea shanty concerts, street performances, local markets, and entertainment create a warm and welcoming ambiance.
- An ideal off-season coastal getaway. Autumn is a wonderful time to explore the Norman coast, enjoy scenic seaside walks, and benefit from more affordable accommodation rates.
Key Dates for 2026
Le Goût du Large Festival, Port-en-Bessin
Port-en-Bessin is the largest fishing port in the Calvados department. Every year, it hosts Le Goût du Large festival, a celebration of the Normandy scallop and maritime culture as a whole. This flagship event also features the popular “Musique sous les Embruns” sea shanty and maritime music festival.
- Le Goût du Large – Scallop Festival & Musique sous les Embruns Festival, Port-en-Bessin: Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November 2026
Dieppe Herring and Scallop Fair
Dieppe is France’s leading scallop fishing port and hosts the 56th Dieppe Herring and Scallop Fair. Visitors can enjoy delicious grilled herring and scallop skewers while immersing themselves in local traditions. More than 100,000 people attend this event every year. Highlights include the parade of the Brotherhood of Herring and Scallops, whose members pledge to promote the noble scallop and the “king of fish”, the herring. Street performances, children’s activities and a community flea market complete the festivities.
- Dieppe Herring and Scallop Fair: Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November 2026
Other Scallop Festivals Across Normandy
- Toute la Mer sur un Plateau (Shellfish and Seafood Festival), Granville, Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October 2026
- Fête de la Coquille, Ouistreham, Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October 2026
- Scallop Festival, Villers-sur-Mer, Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October 2026
- Scallop Festival, Courseulles-sur-Mer Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November 2026
- Coquille Saint-Jacques en Fête, Grandcamp-Maisy (dates to be confirmed for 2026)
- Scallop Market, Trouville-sur-Mer (dates to be confirmed for 2026)
A different way to discover Normandy
Our selection of Normandy Experiences
Normandy Experiences are local gems that add meaning to your trip. You’ll meet Normandy people who are truly passionate about what they do.
Oyster Farm Tasting Tour in Baie des Veys
Grandcamp-Maisy
Off-Road Scooter Adventure & Sunset Aperitif in Quiberville-sur-Mer
Quiberville-sur-Mer
Cheese and Cider Tasting in Normandy
Pont L’Évêque
