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A culinary icon of northern France, the fresh, homemade fries are deeply rooted in the gastronomic traditions of the Hauts-de-France region. Arras could well be the epicentre of this tradition by hosting the World Fries Championship.

The World French Fry Championship

A culinary challenge taking place on the Grand’Place in Arras, a gathering place with a history stretching back a thousand years, where shortlisted contestants from the Hauts-de-France region and far beyond can compete in various categories, each showcasing different ways to elevate fresh fries in front of the spectators.

Charles de L’Écluse, the prophet of the potato from Arras

Did you know?

The French fries we know today would probably never have existed without the tenacity of one of the most remarkable botanists of the Renaissance, Charles de l’Écluse (known as Clusius), born in Arras in 1526, who devoted considerable energy to cultivating, in his own experimental garden, this little-known tuber from Peru, in order to promote it amongst the great European lords, long before the famous Parmentier. In all modesty, the Artois region would therefore seem to be ‘at the root’ of the advent of the French fry as we know it today! Nothing less than that…

Apply to participate in the 4th World French Fry Championship

Fancy making Arras sizzle? 🍟 Applications are now open for the 2026 World French Fry Championship! Sharpen your knives and throw yourself into the fray to show off your skills. We’re waiting for you with open arms for a moment of pure indulgence and togetherness at this 4th edition of the hottest culinary competition around!

I WANT TO BECOME WORLD CHAMPION 🏆

Categories

NEW FOR 2026! Handcrafted crisps

Candidates must present their own take on handcrafted crisps, showcasing the potato and their mastery of frying techniques. Cut into thin strips and dipped in a delicious batter, they can be enhanced with a touch of natural flavourings. Absolutely crunchy!

Authentic French Fries

Intended for catering professionals, this category showcases French fries as they are traditionally prepared and eaten in northern France.

Frites dans une assiette © Louis Hansel

Family French Fries

The premier category, open to amateurs. Candidates must submit their version of ‘homemade’ French fries, prepared in a domestic setting.

Pommes de terre à frite © Monika Grabkowska

Creative French Fries

The only requirement is to come up with an original recipe for fries, whether it’s in terms of shape, cooking method or whatever else your imagination inspires you to create.

Frite créative du Championnat du Monde de la Frite © Axel Willerval

French Fry sauce

We’re not talking about the French fries here, but their best friend: the sauce! One hot AND one cold, they must be made on the premises using unprocessed ingredients.

Fries of the World

This category allows entrants from all over the world to present French fries as they are traditionally served in their country. They may be accompanied by the ingredients needed to make them a genuine traditional dish. A real treat in store for the judges’ taste buds.

Frite du monde du Championnat du Monde de la Frite © Axel Willerval

Rising Star French Fries

The rules are the same as for the ‘Authentic French Fries’ category, but entry is restricted to catering students accompanied by their teacher. They may serve their French Fries with a side dish or a sauce. A fantastic springboard for the winner.

Barquette de frites cc © Matthieu Bequart (3)

And what about those who don’t make French Fries?

Two podiums have been set up on the Grand’Place to welcome competitors from the Championship’s seven categories. The public will have a front-row view to admire the techniques and trade secrets of both amateur and professional participants.

Seeing chips? Big deal! But eating them is even better! You can tuck into the creations of various partner fries shops (including those run by our former World Champions) and even wash them down with excellent craft and local beers* in a friendly, festive atmosphere, right in the heart of the Fries Village. And to work it all off, take part in a sack race… with potato sacks, of course!

World Champion!

The winners in each category are presented with a trophy specially designed for this unique and indulgent culinary event.

Follow the championship on Instagram

Practical information:

  • 26 September 2026 at the Grand’Place in Arras – Free admission
  • If you have any questions regarding the World French Fry Championship or your registration form, please email us at contact@championnatdumondedelafrite.com
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