The Menton Carnival shares several exciting features with its more famous counterpart in Nice. Visitors can expect to see grand parades featuring oversized heads, colorful confetti, thrilling flower battles, lively Mardi Gras celebrations, and the final ceremonial burning of the “Majesty of the Carnival.”
The Menton Festival
Known as the Fête du Citron, this vibrant carnival has been organized by the Menton tourist office since 1875. The festival, sometimes referred to as the Carnaval de Menton, celebrates the region’s renowned lemons and other citrus fruits.
The festival comes to life with stunning floats and elaborate sculptures crafted from lemons and oranges, featuring hues of bright yellow and orange. Each year presents a new theme that influences the design of the floats and sculptures. From fantastical dragons to historic towns, from ancient Egyptian figures to wild animals, the creativity displayed is truly astonishing.
This lively celebration marks the transition towards spring and typically lasts for 15 days in February. Set in the picturesque coastal town of Menton, located on the French Riviera between Monaco and the Italian border, the festival has grown to be one of the largest events globally, making it a must-visit destination for travelers and those in nearby areas.
Here are some reasons to consider adding this event to your group tour:
● Witness the stunning floats and costumes during the parades.
● Experience a town rich in both French and Italian history and culture.
● Enjoy the beauty of Menton’s charming pastel-colored houses.
● Marvel at the sparkling Mediterranean Sea alongside the nearby mountains.
Things to see before or after the celebration in Menton:
● Explore the Val Rahmeh Botanical Gardens.
● Visit the Jean Cocteau Museum.
● Admire the breathtaking Saint-Michel Basilica.
● Stroll through the enchanting sub-tropical gardens of Parc Serre de la Madone.
The Carnival of Menton shares several exciting features with its more famous counterpart in Nice. Visitors can expect to see grand parades featuring oversized heads, colorful confetti, thrilling flower battles, lively Mardi Gras celebrations, and the final ceremonial burning of the “Majesty of the Carnival.”
Nice Carnival
The Nice Carnival, like the Brazilian Carnival, Venetian Carnival, and New Orleans Mardi Gras, takes place annually during February or early March along the stunning French Riviera. Since its revival in 1830, it has been celebrated with vibrant festivities, originally intended to honor visiting nobles. This lively carnival has evolved into a massive public celebration, where the crowd throws flour, eggs, and other fun items at each other.
In France, the carnival is known as “Le Carnaval” or “Mardi Gras,” meaning “Fat Tuesday.” The most famous street carnival occurs in Nice during the two weeks preceding Spring, featuring delightful food options like freshly made crêpes, waffles, and beignets that closely resemble doughnuts.
On February 23, 1873, the Nice Carnival was officially inaugurated, evolving into a spectacular annual event. Alexis Mossa and his son Gustave Adolf played pivotal roles in shaping the modern Carnival experience, creating memorable floats from 1830 until 1971. Headlining these free outdoor celebrations are the spectacular day and night parades, along with vibrant flower battles along the Promenade des Anglais.
Each year features a unique theme, with artists crafting around 18 intricate floats and figurines using traditional papier-mâché. The festivities culminate with the ceremonial burning of the king in the sea, signaling the end of the celebrations and the arrival of Spring. According to legend, the king will rise from the ashes the following year, ready to lead the Carnival once more.
Currently, this two-week event in Nice attracts over a million visitors, making it a prime location for travel and exploration. Here are some reasons why:
● Hike in the beautiful Mediterranean forest of Mont Boron, located east of Nice.
● Savor delicious local cuisine and experience the blend of cultures in the historic towns.
● Visit the iconic Nice Castle Hill.
● Enjoy the vibrant parades and promenade walks along the renowned Promenade des Anglais.
Things to explore before or after the carnival in Nice:
● Relax on the stunning beaches of Nice.
● Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art of Nice, located near Garibaldi Square.
● Unwind in the shade at Park Vigier on a pleasant day.
● Delve into the rich culture by exploring the charming Old Towns of Nice.
Nice is an enchanting destination. Nestled on the French Riviera, it offers everything for an unforgettable experience—breathtaking beaches, vibrant bars and restaurants, stunning views, and a rich culture waiting to be discovered.
