We could start at the end: “If I had doubts about safety conditions, I would not have authorized the event,” announced the new Prefect Georges-François Leclerc. “All recommendations will be implemented and therefore the events accompanying the Christmas festivities are maintained. It is morally necessary for Nice to resume normal life after the July 14 attack, and it is also important for the local economy, which will benefit from it.”
To ensure maximum safety, the village will take place inside the Albert 1st garden. The setup includes security gates and a counting system (as used during EURO 2016).
These measures were reviewed and approved with State services on November 4th.
Nice will indeed have its traditional animations and illuminations, whether on Place Masséna, in the city center, or across all its neighborhoods.
“I didn’t want Christmas to be second-rate,” said Christian Estrosi. “Moreover, we are working with the major hotels on the Promenade des Anglais, the hotel union, and with the support of a renowned artist on a façade illumination project that will be unveiled at the beginning of December.”
The Christmas village will feature decorative elements in the newly refurbished spaces to offer more comfort to visitors.
The ice rink, the traditional Ferris wheel, and children’s games are planned, as well as a dining area with an Oyster Bar, Champagne, and Socca.
The Théâtre de Verdure will remain the “house” for children on the stage expanded for the occasion!
This space will host for the first time: the House of Santa Claus (who will be present until December 25), a Sugar Shack (a great Canadian tradition with the making of pulled lollipops on snow); a “Photobooth” area for parents and children to capture their visit to the Christmas Village; stages with activities for children: storytelling, magic, theater, music, etc.
As every year, Christmas activities are also organized in the city’s neighborhoods, following a rich and varied schedule.
All conditions are met for this pre-festive period to be a success and to turn the page on a summer that will remain in everyone’s memory but should not stop the course of life.
Finally, another cherry on the cake of Nice festivities: Carnival 2017 will indeed take place from February 11 to 26 with a new route, identical for all events, to welcome spectators in a 100% secure venue.*
The Carnival is a major event for the economic development and attractiveness of the territory. It is essential for the promotion of the “Nice destination” internationally.
The economic impact is significant: 1,800 direct jobs, 30 million in economic benefits, and 3,500 hotel nights induced by the OTC Nice.
