Every weekend from 25 January until 6 April, you can watch dancers and musicians parade around the medieval square of this beautiful town south of Carcassonne, dressed as ancient pierrots and modern scoundrels (Putin was featured last year), scattering confetti.
Commemorating the seasonal departure of the fishing fleet, Dunkirk carnival (22 February-8 March) comprises parades, themed balls, and general jollity and mayhem, fuelled by beer, great waffles and frites.
Bystanders cheer on the spectacle with a bottle or two of Blanquette de Limoux, one of the oldest sparkling wines in the world, and the perfect accompaniment to the mayhem.
Nothing brightens up the depths of winter better than a local festival – and Europe is awash with ancient and brilliant carnivals.
Then just follow the band through the streets, singing the songs of carnival, some in local patois, some decidedly fruity.
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