Village

START VILLAGE

OPEN May 30 to June 7, 2026 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

From May 30 to June 7, 2026, the Vendée Globe esplanade will be transformed into the Vendée Arctique village: a free, festive space open to all. In a summery atmosphere, immerse yourself in the polar universe and discover the world of skippers. A week of adventure awaits! On the program: IMOCA speed races in the Bay of Les Sables d'Olonne, activities for young and old, meetings with sailors, and awareness-raising about environmental issues in the Arctic, a fascinating but fragile region on the front line of climate change.

Programme

SATURDAY 30 MAY
Opening ceremony
Presentation of the skippers & autograph signing
Drone show

SUNDAY 31 MAY
Solidarity day

MONDAY 1 JUNE - TUESDAY 2 JUNE - WEDNESDAY 3 JUNE
School group visits

THURSDAY 4 JUNE 
Speed runs in the Bay of Les Sables: the skippers will compete on a short course in front of the beach and try to beat the clock!

FRIDAY 5 JUNE
Environment Day

SATURDAY 6 JUNE

SUNDAY 7 JUNE 
Start of the Vendée Arctique Les Sables d'Olonne!

ARRIVAL VILLAGE

Open 2 hours before each arrival

To welcome the sailors, the village will open two hours before each arrival at the pontoon. A large screen will allow spectators to follow the crossing of the finish line and the first competitors' return up the channel. Once ashore, the skippers will take to the stage to share this moment of celebration with the public. A bar and restaurant area will also be open.