Why Brits Are Booking Trips for Brittany’s Famous Seafood Festival

Ever wondered why thousands of British food lovers are booking trips to a French coastal town? 

It’s because of Concarneau’s La Fête de la Mer et des Marins, Brittany’s famous seafood festival that’s now one of France’s biggest seaside summer celebrations.

Many Brits are heading there for fresh seafood, traditional boats, and real French coastal life. Here’s why they want to be part of this special seaside culture.

What Makes this Festival Special?

La Fête de la Mer et des Marins which translates as “Festival of the Sea and of the Sailors” stands out from other food festivals. This festival combines amazing food with real maritime traditions. 

The highlight is the blessing of the fishing fleet, a centuries-old ceremony where local priests bless each boat before it heads out to sea. Fishing families dress in traditional Breton clothing for this special event that brings the whole community together.

The food here is what really gets people talking. Instead of regular food vendors, you’ll find local fishing families cooking their special recipes right on the quayside. They use old family recipes to make dishes you won’t find in regular restaurants. 

Everyone wants to try the fresh sardines grilled over open fires, seafood soup made from the morning’s catch, and oysters that were in the sea just hours ago.

The maritime procession is another festival highlight, with decorated boats filling the harbor in a stunning display of tradition. 

Each boat tries to win the prize for the best traditional decorations. As evening falls, these boats light up the harbor, creating an unforgettable scene that shows off Brittany’s rich seafaring heritage.

Festival Activities You Can’t Miss

The festival has lots more to offer besides amazing food. The blessing of the fleet ceremony starts early in the morning, with boats decked out in flags and flowers. 

Throughout the day, you can watch cooking demos where local chefs share their family recipes and cooking tips.

Visitors can join boat trips around the bay, where local fishermen explain how they catch different types of seafood. 

The maritime parade happens in the afternoon when decorated boats fill the harbor. In the evening, traditional Breton music and dancing take over the streets.

Where to Stay

Concarneau gets busy during festival time, so booking early is important. The town has plenty of hotels near the festival area, but they fill up quickly. 

Many British visitors stay in nearby towns like Tregunc or Pont-Aven, which are just a short drive away.

Guesthouses and holiday rentals offer good value for money, especially if you’re staying for several days. Some places even have kitchens where you can cook the fresh seafood you buy at the festival. 

Staying outside Concarneau often means quieter evenings and lower prices.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Planning your festival days helps you see everything without missing the best bits. 

Mornings are perfect for watching the boats come in and getting the freshest seafood. The afternoon parade of boats is a must-see, and evenings bring the best atmosphere with music and dancing.

Book your accommodation at least three months ahead, as the festival draws visitors from all over Europe. Many people come back year after year, so hotels fill up fast. Getting to popular events early means you’ll get the best spots to watch.

People also mention how easy it is to get around, even if you don’t speak French. The festival has a relaxed atmosphere so you can take your time trying different foods. 

Many visitors say they’ve already planned to come back next year.

Beyond the Festival

Concarneau and its surroundings have plenty to see when you need a break from the festival. 

The town’s Ville Close (walled city) dates back to medieval times and is full of interesting shops and cafes. Beautiful beaches are just a short walk away, perfect for a morning swim or evening stroll.

Nearby towns like Pont-Aven, famous for its artists, make great day trips. The whole area is full of walking trails along the coast where you can work up an appetite for your next festival meal. 

Many visitors use the festival as a starting point to explore more of Brittany.

Budget Planning

A festival visit doesn’t need to break the bank if you plan well ahead of time. While festival entry is free, you’ll need to budget for food and activities. 

Seafood dishes at the festival usually cost less than restaurant prices, so it’s good value for money. Optional activities like boat trips add to the experience but aren’t essential.

Smart planning helps you get the most for your money. Early hotel bookings often come with good discounts, and many holiday rentals work out cheaper than hotels for longer stays. 

Pro tip: Sharing a rental with friends brings the cost down even more.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Your first visit to La Fête de la Mer et des Marins will be even better with some simple preparation. Here are some essential tips:

1. French Basics: Learn simple food words and greetings to order easily.
2. Cash Ready: Bring Euros as small stalls don’t take cards.
3. Early Start: Morning visits mean fresher food and shorter queues.
4. Festival Guide: Pick up a program at the entrance for event times.
5. Boat Tours: Book these first thing as they sell out quickly.
6. Photo Times: Maritime procession is best photographed from the old town walls.
7. Meeting Points: Set clear meeting spots if going with friends.
8. Transport: Check the last bus and train times if staying outside town.

These simple preparations will help you enjoy everything the festival has to offer.

What to Pack

The August weather in Brittany can change quickly, so pack smart to stay comfortable all day. Here are some essential items you can pack:

• Light raincoat 
• Sun hat and sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light sweater
• Small backpack
• Water bottle
• Hand sanitizer
• Phone and charger
• Cash in euros
• Basic first aid items
• Light scarf (evenings can get cool)

Good preparation means more time to enjoy all the fantastic festival experiences.

Your Maritime Adventure Awaits

La Fête de la Mer et des Marins has everything a food lover could want: amazing fresh seafood, rich maritime traditions, and real French coastal culture. 

With easy travel options from the UK and reasonable prices, it’s clear why more British visitors are making this festival part of their summer plans. 

Ensure you book early, pack smart, and get ready to experience one of France’s most exciting food and maritime celebrations.