Calais (pop. 74,800), situated at the narrowest point in the Channel (Straits of Dover; in French, Pas de Calais), is the largest town in the département of Pas-de-Calais and, with Boulogne, one of the two most important ports for the crossing to and from England (34km/21mi in 75 minutes, or about 40 minutes by hovercraft).
The Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle (rebuilt) displays material on the history of the town of Calais, 19th and 20th C sculpture, and a fine collection of pictures.
Address: Calais Musée des Beaux Arts et de la Dentelle, 25 rue Richelieu, F-62100 Calais, France
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), 1945 Victory Day (May 8), May Day / Labor Day (May 1), Bastille Day - France (July 14), Assumption Day - Christian (August 15), All Saints' Day - Christian (November 1), Remembrance Day / 1918 Armistice Day (November 11), Christmas - Christian (December 25), Pentecost Monday (Whit Monday) - Christian, Ascension Thursday - Christian
Discount: Wednesday
Disability Access: Full facilities for persons with disabilities.
The Musée du marbre et de la pierre blue in Bellignies houses items from before the industrial revolution, as well as works by working class artists, with an audiovisual commentary.
Address: Musée du marbre et de la pierre bleue, 4 rue de Cautipont, F-59570 Bellignies, France
The annual kite festival brings together the best kites from across the globe on one of Europe's most famed beaches. Solo and group acrobatic demonstrations are also included in this week-long event which takes place in early April.
Address: Berck-sur-Mer Tourist Office, 5 avenue Tattegrain, F-62601 Berck-sur-Mer, France
This annual four-day festival takes place in mid-August and showcases local traditions with participants representing 15 French provinces. Events include dancing in the streets, craft stalls, traditional games and musical concerts.
Address: Festival National des Arts et Traditions Populaires, Concours du Hareng d'Or, F-62630 Etaples sur Mer, France
Hondschoote hosts the annual two-day La Karyole Fest which takes place in early September. The festival includes harnessing competitions, craft and food stalls and musical concerts.
Address: Hondschoote Tourist Office, 2 rue des Moëres, F-59122 Hondschoote, France
Maubeuge hosts an annual week-long festival which takes place between late June and early July. The festival includes musical, theatrical and dance performances.
Address: Maubeuge Tourist Office, Porte de Mons, F-59600 Maubeuge, France
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Hardelot-Plage - Hardelot Festival, France
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Calais
