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Maritime Festival
A not-to-be-missed event every four years
Are You Familiar with the Maritime Festivals of Brest, this Unmissable Quadrennial Event?
Origins and History of this Brest Festival
The origins of the Maritime Festivals date back to 1980 in Pors Beac’h at the bottom of the Brest harbor when enthusiasts of rigging decide to come together to revitalize a fleet of traditional sailboats. It was the Groupe Finistérien de Croisière association and the help of the founders of Chasse-Marée (a French magazine on maritime heritage) who organized this maritime event.
The event was so successful that in 1982 and 1984, it brought together a very large number of boats. In 1986, nearly 400 sailboats and 10,000 visitors decided to gather in Douarnenez. In addition to this, public authorities and initiatives to restore traditional boats decided to join this event. This gathering has become so significant that it is referred to as a large international and cultural maritime festival that no longer took place in Douarnenez but in Brest.
From "Tonnerre de Brest" to the Maritime Festivals of Brest
It was decided to hold this event every four years and until 2012, this quadrennial festival did not have a specific name. Each edition was named after the city of Brest, followed by the year it took place. This festival finally changed its name in 2012 to "Les Tonnerres de Brest" in reference to a significant climatic event that occurred in Brest in 1718, then in 2016, it changed again to the "International Maritime Festivals of Brest". In 2020, the Maritime Festivals exceptionally did not take place due to the global Covid-19 pandemic. That's why the 2024 edition is eagerly awaited!
Did You Know that the Maritime Festivals of Brest are More Than Just a Festival?
A Cultural, Environmental, and Educational Dimension for Brest and its Visitors
The Maritime Festivals of Brest are much more than just a gathering of boats. It is a celebration of the maritime history of the region, its cultural heritage, and its passion for the sea. For several days, the port of Brest becomes a living spectacle where maritime traditions blend with the contemporary world. Visitors have the opportunity to admire these jewels and even board them for an immersive experience.
It is also an opportunity to discover the richness of Breton maritime culture through exhibitions, demonstrations of know-how, traditional music concerts, and dance performances. Local artisans exhibit their creations, ranging from gastronomic products to crafts inspired by the sea.
Beyond the festive aspect, the Maritime Festivals of Brest have an important educational and environmental dimension through conferences and workshops organized to raise public awareness of the challenges related to the preservation of the oceans and marine environment.
So, Would You Also Be Tempted by the Maritime Festivals of Brest?
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Our hotel is located a 10-minute drive from the festive gathering, the airport, the train station, and the city center, so don't hesitate to spend a few days with us on this occasion!