This post was written by Anaïs Niobey
Normandy is a territory of maritime history and 2023 is celebrating this wonderful heritage with many events being held throughout summer…
First and foremost, get ready to set sail with the Rouen Armada from 8 to 18 June (Seine-Maritime). Happening every 4 years, the Rouen Armada offers 10 days of festivities with concerts, fireworks, free visits of vessels and tall ships settled along the quays of the Seine. All the goodies and accessories displayed in our shop windows can be purchased on: Rouen Armada 2023 Souvenirs – Official Store (boutiquearmada2023.fr)
On 24 & 25 June, the Marité, the famous tall ship based in Granville (Manche) will celebrate its 100th anniversary in its home port with a full programme of events.
The Tour des Ports de la Manche sailing race will go around the ports of La Manche, Jersey and Guernsey. With around 500 participants, this 40 years old race is a must-see from 9 to 14 July!
Another historic event, the Rolex Fastnet Race celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. This superb regatta will set sail for the port of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin (Manche) departing from the Isle of Wight in England on Saturday 22 July. From that date on, you will be able to enjoy the race village set up on the port of Cherbourg until 29 July.
Other events will take place over the summer such as La Solitaire du Figaro starting in Caen on 27 August, the Festival des Voiles de Travail in Granville (Manche) from 23 to 27 August or the Jacques Vabre Transat starting in Le Havre on 29 October.
You will also have the opportunity to celebrate sea food with Toute la Mer sur un Plateau in Granville on 7 & 8 October and many scallops festivals all around Normandy. Have a look here to find out more about towns and dates.
Normandy is renowned for its many sailing races and events celebrating its maritime history and traditions, come have a look at our shop window display to find out more!
We would like to thank Abysse Corp who created and generously gifted us the goodies for the Rouen Armada, the Rolex Fastnet Race as well as the County Council of la Manche and David Letort for their help in creating this display.