On May 23rd, Waikiki beach in Cannes hosted one of the most anticipated evenings of this year’s Cannes Film Festival: the Mix Party, organized in partnership with Kiss FM. In an elegant, festive and convivial atmosphere, several hundred people gathered facing the Mediterranean for a night dedicated to music, sharing and celebration.
From the opening hours of the evening, success was guaranteed with a practically full establishment in terms of catering. Boosted by ideal weather, a rhythmic DJ set and meticulous organization, the event quickly transformed the beach into a genuine open-air dancefloor.
A festive and human experience
At the origin of the concept, Jérôme, founder of Mix Party, has been organizing evenings for over twenty years between Aix-en-Provence, Marseille and now Cannes. Passionate about the world of events and nightlife, he advocates for an accessible and human vision of festive evenings. “ Mix Party is above all a human and festive experience. We want to create elegant and accessible evenings where people come as much for the atmosphere as for the social connections.” Over the years, Mix Party has become a recognized meeting point on the Côte d’Azur, bringing together a loyal audience seeking festive events in iconic locations.
For this special closing edition of the Cannes Film Festival, the choice of Waikiki seemed natural.
“Waikiki perfectly represents the spirit we wanted to give to this evening: sunset, beach, music, elegance and relaxation. During the Cannes Film Festival, the atmosphere can sometimes be very formal. We wanted to offer a more free, warmer moment, almost timeless.” The partnership with the venue developed as a continuation of an already long-standing relationship between the organizers and the venue’s owner. A collaboration described as “fluid” and natural.
Kiss FM, an essential partner
The partnership with Kiss FM gave this edition particular visibility. A loyal and valuable collaboration for the Mix Party team. “ Kiss FM is an essential radio station in the region. Their confidence means a lot to us. They have been supporting us since our beginnings in Cannes. It’s a real source of pride.” Through this media partnership, the event benefited from significant regional coverage, further strengthening its appeal during the Cannes Film Festival. The evening was also marked by the presence of Martial Blin, who came to celebrate his 60th birthday in a festive atmosphere surrounded by close friends and many guests. For Jérôme, his presence was a natural fit: “Martial totally corresponds to the energy of Mix Party. He is positive, accessible, elegant and close to the public.” A celebration that made this edition even more symbolic and convivial.
Throughout the evening, DJ Merril resident was able to maintain constant energy on the dancefloor through a musical program mixing current hits, festive tracks and classic crowd-pleasing songs. “We want people to dance with their feet in the sand. The goal is really to create collective energy and memories.“ In a summer and relaxed atmosphere, guests enjoyed a timeless moment facing the Mediterranean.
On the catering side, Waikiki pulled out all the stops with a generous and refined menu.
Meticulous organization
Behind this evening that appeared fluid and festive lay significant organization mobilizing several dozen people across security, reception, communication, catering and technical aspects. “When everything appears fluid for guests, it’s precisely because there is enormous work behind it. The most important thing is to manage unforeseen events without ever transmitting stress to customers.”
Used to major Cannes events, Jérôme also emphasizes the importance of customer experience and anticipation. “Even with high attendance, we want each person to feel they are expected and welcomed in the best conditions.” Between elegance, energy and festive spirit, this 2026 edition of Mix Party confirms its status as a must-attend meeting point for Cannes nights and closing events of the Cannes Film Festival.
An evening summed up in three words by its founder: “elegance, energy and memories.”
