Colors of Calais - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Calais is unique – it has many canals that separate the city into two parts, the so-called Calais-Nord (Old Town) and Calais-Sud (New Town). When moving from one part of the city to the other one, it feels like you are traveling in time. The two parts are so different that they look like two parallel, independent worlds. This difference is reflected not only in the look of streets and buildings but also in the atmosphere, mentality, and character of local people. At one hand, unhurried and relaxed lifestyle of people who live in the historic district and fast rhythm of a modern business center on the other one. That is the reason why fans of antiquities and travelers who like megalopolis will find something suitable and interesting in Calais.

The region has always been famous for its independent spirit and pride of local people: free-spirited and self-sufficient, the aristocracy of Calais once even wanted to separate from France and live independently. Long before this, the city was a mere small village. Everything changed when Count of Boulogne decided to build a massive coastal fortress here. The main purpose of the fortress was to protect the land from English invaders – the countries didn’t get along well at that time. Later, Calais was occupied by the island empire for two centuries, and this fact has also shaped the national character of local people. Even nowadays, close proximity to the United Kingdom has its influence on Calais, but today it is absolutely peaceful.

Residents of Calais, just like the majority of French people, respect etiquette and good manners. They cannot stand rudeness and ignorance. If you want to make a good impression on local people, it is better to be aware of etiquette rules. That being said, the French treat foreigners with patience and tolerance, so tourists can expect to find understanding and indulgence here. French people are hospitable and they are used to a big number of foreign guests and migrants who enter the country every year. In Calais, just like in many other cities in France, there are areas for representatives of certain expat communities. Needless to say, these districts have an authentic atmosphere of the nations that live there. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Without a doubt, quality textiles have become one of the most famous symbols of the city. Since the industrial revolution, Calais has been one of the leading manufacturers of lace and tulle of the highest quality in the world. There are still several factories that embroider fabulous ornaments on feather-weight fabric. Handmade items are also widespread in the city – tourists enjoy buying them as souvenirs. When lace was extremely popular, more than a half of the population of the city worked at textile factories. Even nowadays, there are many experts who know about all secrets of this craft.

There is an ancient tradition in Calais. Two times a year, Place d'Armes that is also referred to as “the heart of Calais” hosts interesting fair trades. Every Wednesday and Saturday, a market, in which local farmers and artisans sell their goods, opens on the square. This tradition has appeared after the end of English occupation – invaders opened a market on the central square of the city. When the territory was returned to France, fair trade with local artisans has become a symbol of freedom and happiness of liberation. Tourists are recommended to visit this event because it is not only a wonderful chance to get acquainted with local people but also an opportunity to buy something interesting.

Christmas is always widely celebrated in Calais. This is one of the main holidays, just like in the rest of Europe. Colorful garlands and toys appear on the streets of the city. Many of these items are handmade. Locals decorate doors of their houses with bright wreaths. Fair trades appear on all major squares of the city. They offer Christmas souvenirs, sweets, and various entertainments for visitors. Perhaps, the parade of turkeys is one of the most unusual events in the city. The birds walk leisurely on the main streets of Calais. This original tradition is also adopted in several more cities in France. There are several theories about the creation of this parade.