In terms of meals festivals in Montmartre, most individuals consider the Fête des Vendanges in October. It’s iconic, and for good cause.
However right here’s somewhat secret: Montmartre isn’t nearly wine and harvests. Come January, the neighborhood hosts one other foodie favourite—the Fête de la Coquille Saint-Jacques, the Scallops Competition.
I solely found this competition in 2024, although it’s been round for 15 years. As a giant fan of the Fête des Vendanges, I couldn’t wait to test it out.
And let me inform you—it didn’t disappoint.

Between the colourful environment, the scrumptious meals, and the proper climate (we obtained so fortunate!), it was a improbable expertise.
What’s the Fête de la Coquille All About?
Held on the Place des Abbesses, the seasonal competition is a celebration of Brittany’s meals, tradition, and traditions. It’s a cooperation between a few Organizations selling Breton tradition and delicacies and the Commanderie du Clos Montmartre—the identical group behind the Fête des Vendanges.
The competition runs over two days in 2025, with markets open Saturday, twenty fifth from 9 to 20h and Sunday, twenty sixth from 10 to 19h. Count on stalls full of all the most effective Brittany has to supply. Amongst others:
- Coquilles Saint-Jacques (scallops), recent and completely ready.
- Charcuterie, Cheese and naturally Andouille
- Kuign-Amann, that impossible to resist buttery, caramelized pastry.
- Crêpes and Galette Saucisse, Brittany’s street-food reply to consolation meals
Add to that parades, conventional Breton music, and dancing, and also you’ve obtained an occasion that’s vigorous, scrumptious, and full of attraction. It’s simply the proper Parisian Meals Competition.


Additionally attention-grabbing for those who’re planning on visiting Montmartre:
Why Brittany Holds a Particular Place in Parisian Hearts
Parisians love Brittany. Whether or not it’s due to household roots, childhood holidays to the seaside, or simply the meals, mentioning Brittany in dialog is certain to earn you a dreamy sigh.
Enjoyable Truth: Do you know that almost all of Paris’ crêperies are in Montparnasse? It’s no coincidence—the Gare Montparnasse connects Paris to Brittany.
When Bretons moved to Paris, many settled close to the station, bringing their crêpe-making expertise with them. At the moment, Rue du Montparnasse is a haven for crêpe lovers.

Plan Your Go to
When you’re in Paris this weekend, don’t miss the Fête de la Coquille Saint-Jacques. Between the meals, the environment, and the prospect to discover Montmartre in winter, it’s an occasion that’s properly price your time.
📍 The place: Place des Abbesses, Montmartre
📅 When: Saturday, 25/01/2025 (9 to 20h) and Sunday, 26/01/2025 (10 to 19h)
I’ll positively be there—there’s no manner I’m lacking out on scallops and Kuign-Amann. Fingers crossed the climate cooperates once more this 12 months!

Why Montmartre Is At all times a Good Thought
➤ Learn my Montmartre Information for the complete listing of issues to do and see
The Fête de la Coquille is the proper excuse to go to Montmartre in January. When you’re there, ensure that to discover the neighborhood. It’s full of attraction and many to see and regardless that it is not going to be abandoned, you discover the realm nonetheless les crowded than within the busy month from April to October.
Listed below are my favourite issues to do in Montmartre, however ensure that to learn the complete publish with finest adresses and places.
- Musée de Montmartre: A quiet, beautiful museum that dives into the historical past of this creative neighborhood.
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica: A basic for good cause. The view from the highest is definitely worth the climb.
- Hidden streets and alleys: Montmartre’s winding streets are stuffed with surprises, from quaint cafés to distinctive outlets and lots of cute cobble stone roads.

When you’re on the lookout for a novel option to expertise Montmartre, the Fête de la Coquille Saint-Jacques is a should. Between the colourful Breton environment, scrumptious meals, and the attraction of this iconic neighborhood, it’s an occasion that really captures the magic of Paris.
Whether or not you come for the scallops, the Kuign-Amann, or simply to absorb the festive vibes, you received’t remorse it. And whilst you’re in Montmartre, take the time to discover its cobblestone streets, hidden gems, and basic landmarks—it’s all the time price it.
Let me know for those who’re planning to go to the competition or for those who’ve been earlier than! I’d love to listen to about your expertise.


Parisienne since 2006 🩷
Knowledgeable in: Parisian Life &
French Tradition, Journey
Planning, Crochet & Meals and Drinks
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