Scallop Festival in Ouistreham

Every autumn, Ouistreham celebrates the start of the scallop season with one of the Côte de Nacre’s unmissable culinary events: the Scallop and Seafood Festival.

After all, Normandy is France’s leading region for harvesting the famous scallop.

This year, the event takes place on October 17 and 18, 2026, inviting you to discover the riches of the Normandy coast.

A weekend of tastings and entertainment

As happens every year, Ouistreham’s fish market becomes a gathering spot for scallop lovers from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can buy freshly landed *Label Rouge* scallops, as well as fish and shellfish, directly from the fishermen.

Volunteers from the SNSM (French sea rescue service) will also be serving their famous scallop skewers a festival staple.

Enjoy a festive atmosphere with the whole family

Beyond the food, the town of Ouistreham offers a wide range of entertainment.

Concerts, shows, tastings, and maritime heritage activities will fill the weekend schedule.

Local restaurateurs will also join in the festivities by creating special menus featuring scallops.

The festival offers a chance to take part in cooking workshops and learn how to prepare scallops including as a carpaccio.

Plan your trip to Normandy now

To make the most of the Scallop Festival and the Normandy coast, book your hotel in Caen city center.

The Best Western Royal Hôtel welcomes you to Place de la République right across from the fountains offering a pleasant setting and nearby underground public parking.

Discover our modern, air-conditioned rooms, featuring a private bathroom with a shower or bathtub.

The hotel offers a wide range of services:

• 24/7 reception;
• bicycle storage;
• buffet breakfast;
• concierge service;
• baby equipment;
• preferential parking rates;
• room service;
• a bar serving "Made in Normandy" drinks.

Book directly to take advantage of our best offers!