Home to more than 2.6 million people, Nord is the most populous department in France. From its beaches to its cultural and historic buildings and cuisine, Nord has a lot going for it. The Olympic torch will arrive to the department on Tuesday, 2 July, beginning this stage of the relay next to the fortifications of Avesnes-sur-Helpe, first built sometime in the 11th century. Then it's off to Dunkirk, a port city where the sequence will draw to a close in front of the 58-metre belfry that has loomed large over the city since 1440.

The Olympic torch will also go to Wallers-Arenberg, an old mining site that has entered the legend of Paris–Roubaix thanks to the Trouée d'Arenberg cobbled sector. After a stop in Cambrai, known for its bêtises (a confectionery invented in the 19^th century), the torch will travel from Tourcoing to the venerated Roubaix Velodrome. From Roubaix it will head to Douai, where it will run past the belfry dating from 1380. The torch will call it a day in Lille.

Celebrations in Lille

A European crossroads, Lille stands out for its dynamism, heritage, and welcoming tradition. The 10th-largest city in France, it has a key university and research hub and is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, as well as major events such as its famous annual street market. The Olympic torch will begin its tour at the seat of the Lille European Metropolis before heading downtown via the Euralille neighbourhood. It will make its way through the heart of the city along the key landmarks of the Flemish capital: Place du Théâtre, Grand'Place, and Rue Nationale. The torch will then run down the banks of the Deûle before entering the Champ de Mars. This sprawling esplanade at the foot of Lille Citadel will bring locals together to wrap up the day with a celebration and the lighting of the cauldron.

Celebration venue info

Come and celebrate the passing of the Olympic flame in Lille!

The celebration site is free and open to all from 3.30pm to 7.45pm at the following address: CHAMP DE MARS, 59000 LILLE

A festive programme open to all awaits you, including :

• events organised by the local authorities: sport, music, shows, etc.
• stands run by the Relay of the Flame sponsors:
  • Coca-Cola will be providing a musical and festive atmosphere
  • Banque Populaire will be giving the public the chance to try out water sports
  • Caisse d'Epargne will be dedicating its stand to basketball and handball
• a show organised by the sponsors on the sports slab from 6 p.m.
• 7.20pm: the arrival of the last torchbearer and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, a moment not to be missed!

Note: a giant screen, a host and a DJ will also be on hand to get the public in the mood for the Torch Relay!