Celebrations unveiled to mark 80 years of Dundee’s twinning with Orléans

The DOTA will be marking 80 years of the partnership (Picture: Supplied)

Dundee is set to celebrate a major milestone in its international history, as plans are unveiled to mark the 80th anniversary of its twinning with the French city of Orléans.

The Dundee Orléans Twinning Association (DOTA) is leading a year-long programme of events aimed at reconnecting the city with a partnership that dates back to the Second World War.

The history of the twinning

The roots of the twinning stretch to wartime Dundee, when Free French submariners were stationed in the city and supported by the local community.

The relationship strengthened further in 1944 when Dundee was paired with Orléans to help the French city recover after heavy bombing.

Two years later, in September 1946, the official twinning agreement was signed, marking the beginning of a lasting connection between the two cities.

Sally Carus, chair of the DOTA with pupils from Grove Academy (Picture: Supplied)

Over the decades, the partnership has been shaped by cultural exchanges, particularly school visits that ran for many years. While traditional pupil exchanges have reduced since the 1990s, links remain active, with schools such as Morgan Academy and Grove Academy continuing to build connections.

More recently, pupils from Grove Academy have been preparing to take part in an international environmental conference in Orléans, highlighting the modern relevance of the partnership.

Celebrating 80 years

Despite its long history, organisers say awareness of the twinning in Dundee remains limited. As part of the anniversary year, DOTA is aiming to change that through a series of public events and community initiatives.

An exhibition showcasing Dundee’s twin cities will take place at the Central Library in April, while a competition inviting school pupils to design a commemorative pin badge has already been launched.

Celebrations will extend beyond Dundee, with Orléans set to honour the partnership during its annual Joan of Arc Festival in May.

A delegation of 16 DOTA members will travel to represent the city, alongside invited performers including a Gaelic choir and Dundee City Pipe Band, who will take part in official events and concerts.

Back in Dundee, a major weekend of celebrations is planned for 5 and 6 September.

The city will host visitors from Orléans for a civic reception and a Twinning Fair in City Square, bringing together all four of Dundee’s twinning associations.

Events will also include live performances, a visit to the Highland Games in Blairgowrie, and a range of cultural activities including a ceilidh and guided city tours.

Organisers are encouraging businesses and residents across Dundee to get involved, with ideas ranging from themed decorations to French-inspired menu items and participation in the Twinning Fair.

With support from local groups including Dundee Rotary Club and HMS Unicorn Heritage Trust, DOTA hopes the anniversary will become a true city-wide celebration of international friendship and shared history.