Scallop Festival 2026 in Ouistreham
On October 17 and 18, 2026, Ouistreham Riva-Bella celebrates one of the Normandy coast's most iconic products: the scallop.
Every autumn, this gastronomic festival marks the opening of the fishing season, bringing together food lovers and maritime tradition enthusiasts in a friendly atmosphere.
You may not know it, but Normandy is France's leading region for scallop fishing.
With its seven ports and 120 kilometers of coastline, the region supplies several thousand tons of this exceptional shellfish each year.
Normandy scallops even hold the *Label Rouge* (Red Label), a guarantee of recognized quality.
Throughout the festival weekend, the Ouistreham Fish Market becomes the heart of the event.
You can buy freshly landed scallops, sample dishes prepared by professionals, or discover local flavors.
Look out for the two Normandy *Label Rouge* products: the "Coquille Saint-Jacques de Normandie" (whole scallop) and the "Noix de Saint-Jacques" (scallop meat/adductor muscle).
During the weekend, you can also watch cooking demonstrations, tour boats, take part in knot-tying workshops, and enjoy sea shanty concerts.
Must-see moments include the return of the trawlers, the unloading of the catch, and the traditional fishermen's parade along the quays.
This procession pays tribute to the sailors who keep ancestral skills alive and often includes a blessing of the boats a symbol of protection for the upcoming season.
A wide range of activities also takes place around the lighthouse, Place du Général-de-Gaulle, and the marina.
To fully enjoy these two days of seaside festivities, stay at the Best Western Plus Le Moderne hotel.
Located in the heart of Caen, just minutes from the city's tourist landmarks, Hotel Le Moderne welcomes you to a modern, spacious setting.
Discover our contemporary, comfortable, and air-conditioned rooms for a pleasant and relaxing stay.
After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a glass of cider or Calvados in the hotel’s lounge bar.
Finally, before you leave, treat yourself to a delicious breakfast featuring local products to delight your taste buds.
Every autumn, this gastronomic festival marks the opening of the fishing season, bringing together food lovers and maritime tradition enthusiasts in a friendly atmosphere.
Discover the scallop, an emblem of Calvados
You may not know it, but Normandy is France's leading region for scallop fishing.
With its seven ports and 120 kilometers of coastline, the region supplies several thousand tons of this exceptional shellfish each year.
Normandy scallops even hold the *Label Rouge* (Red Label), a guarantee of recognized quality.
Two days of tastings and entertainment
Throughout the festival weekend, the Ouistreham Fish Market becomes the heart of the event.
You can buy freshly landed scallops, sample dishes prepared by professionals, or discover local flavors.
Look out for the two Normandy *Label Rouge* products: the "Coquille Saint-Jacques de Normandie" (whole scallop) and the "Noix de Saint-Jacques" (scallop meat/adductor muscle).
During the weekend, you can also watch cooking demonstrations, tour boats, take part in knot-tying workshops, and enjoy sea shanty concerts.
Experience the highlights of the 2026 Scallop Festival
Must-see moments include the return of the trawlers, the unloading of the catch, and the traditional fishermen's parade along the quays.
This procession pays tribute to the sailors who keep ancestral skills alive and often includes a blessing of the boats a symbol of protection for the upcoming season.
A wide range of activities also takes place around the lighthouse, Place du Général-de-Gaulle, and the marina.
Stay at Hotel Le Moderne to make the most of the event
To fully enjoy these two days of seaside festivities, stay at the Best Western Plus Le Moderne hotel.
Located in the heart of Caen, just minutes from the city's tourist landmarks, Hotel Le Moderne welcomes you to a modern, spacious setting.
Discover our contemporary, comfortable, and air-conditioned rooms for a pleasant and relaxing stay.
After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a glass of cider or Calvados in the hotel’s lounge bar.
Finally, before you leave, treat yourself to a delicious breakfast featuring local products to delight your taste buds.
