Carnival of Granville is a four-day celebration that occurs before Shrove Tuesday and is organized by the community and nearby communes in the city of Granville, France. Historically, this carnival traces its roots back to the maritime heritage of the town.
The first organized Granville Carnival took place on February 7, 1875. Each year around Mardi Gras local fishermen would depart the port for Newfoundland's Grand Banks, off the coast of Canada, to fish for cod. As part of their final celebration before setting out on the voyage across the Atlantic, they hosted a farewell party.
A lot of preparation is required before the Granville Carnival actually happens. The 2,500 member planning committee is referred to as a carnivalier and works on building the floats about six months in advance of opening night. The local government helps with the logistics of the event as well as constructing the floats, which are typically satirical references to current events, celebrities, and political figures.
A few days before Mardi Gras the first official celebration takes place with an opening concert and the Mayor of Granville presents the ‘Carnival King’, a paper-mâché figure that serves as a mascot. The next day is the children's parade, where young kids can celebrate by marching through the streets as the Carnival King perches on his chariot. On Sunday, there is another parade with fanfare, costumed townspeople, and the floats mentioned above. The next big event is Bris des Carnavaliers, where organizers gather for a ball and celebrate the outcome of their efforts.
The carnival's final day is Shrove Tuesday, which involves many rituals that wrap up the event. The Carnival King is sentenced and cremated in the port and a confetti battle takes place in Cours Jonville, Granville's main square. The evening is referred to as the 'night of intrigues,' as masked carnival-goers make their way through the streets and bars. They tell jokes, share gossip, and settle disputes among their fellow citizens. This serves as a kind of platform for public free speech, allowing people to air their grievances in a fully costumed setting.
Today, the Carnival of Granville is one of three major carnivals that survive in French port cities. It attracts 100,000 spectators annually. The festival contributes to community unity and a sense of belonging. Inherent knowledge is passed down through families and committees.