The Normandy villages/towns of Bayeaux, Longues-sur-Mer and Port-en-Bessin (14 Calvados, Normandie) celebrate the 66th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings from 5-7 June 2010.
Each year around 6th June, the holiday destination of Bayeux – Bessin – D-Day beaches becomes the scene for many events and festivities in commemoration of the Battle of Normandy. The military cemetery of Colleville-sur-mer, American territory in the heart of Bessin, welcomes over a million visitors each year and is a key site on this historical journey. Memorial Day commemorates American men and women who died in military service. This tribute is also observed each year at the cemetery of Colleville sur Mer, on the last Sunday of May. During the memorial service, American and French flags are placed side-by-side at the foot of each stele.
Amongst the activities planned this year is a firework display, a guided walk of the invasion route and a big celebratory party – all with an American emphasis, in recognition of the heavy losses which the US troops sustained on this end of the invasion beaches. The English landing beaches were further east towards Ouistreham, now the site of the Brittany Ferries’ terminal.
But you do not have to be interested in the war or history to enjoy this part of France – there are interesting little towns and ports, great beaches and glorious unspoilt countryside to explore – and all within easy reach of the UK by Ferry to Le Havre, Caen, Cherbourg or St Malo. And of course there is the added attraction of the Bayeux Tapestry (Tapiserie de Bayeux) which should not be missed.
For more info see www.bessin-normandie.com
