Lille and its surroundings offer an unbeatable range of cultural and sporting events !

Popular traditions are alive and well-at the Dunkirk Carnival which features dancing and parades with giant masks and statues, protectors of the cities they incarnate. In early September, the Braderie de Lille-a huge flea market-attracts over 2 million visitors from all over Europe for two days and one night of outdoor displays.

People in Northern France known how to enjoy themselves.

The beverage of choice for regional fêtes is beer-or rather a vast selection of specialty beers brewed locally. Lovers of fine food will want to try savory local cheeses and mouth-watering waterzoï or potjevlesh, carbonnade flamande, a beef stew simmered in beer, tarte aux maroilles, a delicious cheese quiche, and for those with a sweet tooth gaufres à la cassonnade or waffles sprinkled with brown sugar, and bêtises de Cambrai sweets. “Saveurs en Or” is the official label for authentic products from Northern France. To date over 100 products carry the name, rewarding their commitment to regional ingredients processed locally, quality and traceability.