The top events to experience in Calais

All of these events are just a 10 to 15-minute drive from the LeShuttle terminal in Coquelles, making them easy to enjoy whether you’re on a weekend break or passing through. Plan your trip around these vibrant highlights and experience the warm Calais welcome at its best.

Yiqing Yin : Air and Dreams at the Calais Lace Museum

A glimpse into the captivating Yiqing Yin: "Air and Dreams" exhibit at the Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode in Calais. 

Until January 2026, the Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode presents an extraordinary exhibition: Yiqing Yin: Air and Dreams. Yiqing Yin is the first Chinese-born designer to be officially awarded the Haute Couture title in France. Her sculptural, ethereal creations blur the lines between fashion, sculpture and poetry. This immersive exhibition invites visitors to wander through a world where lace, air, sound and scent create dreamlike landscapes. 

With more than 70 haute couture gowns on display, this is a rare chance to discover the creative world of a contemporary fashion icon in one of the finest lace museums in Europe. 

Meet the Calais Machines on the Seafront and at Fort Risban

In Calais, mechanical creatures are part of daily life. On the seafront, the colossal Dragon of Calais roams the promenade, offering visitors a chance to climb aboard for an unforgettable ride. This 10-metre-high creature breathes smoke, roars and flaps its wings as it journeys along the beach, thrilling audiences of all ages. 

La compagnie du Dragon brings its mythical beast to life on the Calais seafront. Credit: Carine Anot

From July 2025 to March 2026, the newly renovated Fort Risban hosts Dragons, Varan and Chimeras, an open-air and indoor exhibition dedicated to the mechanical universe of François Delaroziere and La Machine. Sketches, scale models and immersive installations reveal the creative process behind the spectacular creatures that roam Calais, including the famous Dragon and the new arrival, the Varan de Voyage. 

Take a walk around the fort’s ramparts, enjoy the stunning views over the sea, and discover how Calais became a city where dreams and machines come to life. 

Summer Fun on Calais Beach

Every year from June to September, Calais Beach transforms into a lively family resort packed with free activities. Enjoy open-air concerts, sports tournaments, inflatable playgrounds, beach volleyball competitions and fun fairs - all just steps from the sea. Early mornings start with yoga or fitness classes on the sand, while evenings bring music festivals, DJ nights and outdoor movies. 

The sunny Calais beach offers the perfect summer escape. Credit: Nohcab Calais XXL

Live music is at the heart of the summer in Calais. Concerts take place all season long, whether on the seafront beside the Dragon of Calais, right on the beach, or in the bustling Place d’Armes - the city’s vibrant square surrounded by bars and restaurants. From international DJ sets to rock nights and tribute bands, the city comes alive with sounds and rhythms for all ages. 

Don’t miss the artisan markets on Friday and Saturday evenings, perfect for browsing local crafts and tasting delicious street food. The whole summer vibe is free to enjoy - even the parking - so save your budget for a well-deserved ice cream or a cone of fries, a true Calais tradition by the sea. 

The Rodin Gallery at the Fine Arts Museum

The Fine Arts Museum of Calais has recently opened a new permanent space dedicated to Auguste Rodin, offering fresh insight into one of France’s most celebrated sculptors. This intimate gallery explores Rodin’s artistic journey and his deep connection to Calais, particularly through his most famous local masterpiece, The Burghers of Calais. Visitors can discover preparatory sketches, models and sculptures that reveal the creative process behind this powerful work, commissioned to commemorate the Hundred Years’ War and the English occupation of Calais in the 14th century. 

Explore the timeless works of Auguste Rodin at the Fine Arts Museum in Calais. Credit: Charles Delcourt

Beyond the art, the gallery invites visitors to reflect on the city’s turbulent history as an English stronghold, making it a perfect complement to the Burghers statue in front of the Town Hall. Combine your visit with a stroll through Richelieu Park next door, or enjoy a café break along the Rue Royale in this peaceful corner of Calais. 

The Varan de Voyage Show

From 7 to 9 November 2025, Calais will host its most spectacular street show yet: the arrival of the Varan de Voyage, a colossal mechanical reptile and new companion of the Dragon of Calais. Created by La Machine, the Varan is a 15-metre-long creature of steel and wood that breathes, roars and moves through the streets. The show blends music, theatre and epic storytelling in a free, three-day celebration open to all. 

After the spectacle, the Varan will join the Dragon of Calais on the seafront, taking visitors on daily rides through the city. Don’t miss this world-exclusive event where Calais becomes a living stage filled with poetry and wonder. 

Christmas in Calais

From late November to early January, Calais lights up for the festive season with Christmas in Calais, one of the region’s most beloved holiday programmes. The highlight is the Grand Christmas Parade, where floats, performers and musicians bring magic to the streets in a spectacular evening procession that draws visitors from across northern France. 

Enjoy a festive evening at the Christmas market. Credit: Nohcab Calais XXL

Throughout the season, enjoy the Christmas markets, ice-skating rink, light displays and festive concerts. It’s a heart-warming way to experience Calais’ family spirit and hospitality during the holidays. 

Plan your visit from LeShuttle

Whether you love culture, seaside fun or festive celebrations, Calais offers something special every season. And the best part? All these highlights are just 10 to 15 minutes by car from the LeShuttle terminal in Coquelles. Park easily in the city centre or by the beach, explore on foot or by free local bus, and enjoy a hassle-free day or weekend trip packed with unforgettable moments.