Nice unveiled the 2026 edition of its carnival during a press conference held this Friday, January 30th, at the Villa Masséna. In the presence of the mayor of Nice and carnival participants, the official theme was revealed: “Vive la Reine,” a celebration of the great female figures who have marked history and the collective imagination.
From February 11 to March 1, 2026, the city will resonate to the rhythm of this new edition, which will honor remarkable women’s destinies, real or fictional. Strength, courage, creativity, and influence will be at the heart of this program, conceived as a tribute to the heroines of yesterday and today, from all eras.
A young and committed muse to embody the 2026 theme
During this presentation, the organizers unveiled previews of the models of the Carnival Queen and King, as well as the muse of the Flower Battles. This year, the symbolic role was entrusted to Melissa Corrao, 21 years old, a communication bachelor student at ISCOM Nice. With the muse’s sash around her neck, the young Niçoise couldn’t hide her emotion: “I am very honored to wear this sash. I was already very happy to participate in the Carnival and to be on the floats, but being a muse is even stronger, especially in 2026, where women are in the spotlight.” Born in the region, this recognition holds a special meaning for her. “Being chosen to represent women, these beautiful women, is a title that truly touches me. I would like to be the link between women, the Carnival, and the public.” While her role is still gradually being shaped, enthusiasm is already well present: “everything is unfolding step by step with the team. I am well surrounded and well supported, so I am sure it will be a fantastic adventure.”
A Queen conceived as a universal figure
The representation of the 2026 Queen, which may have surprised some observers, was also explained by Caroline Constantin, director of the Nice Carnival. “We deliberately avoided a figure too close to ‘Mother Nature.’ Last year, the King-Queen couple worked very well because they came from the same universe. This year, if we had gone in that direction, we would have needed a King of the same ilk, which would have made the theme less understandable for the audience, especially internationally.” The choice was therefore made for a nurturing mother figure, full of meaning: “we preferred this symbolic strength to speak of an allegory of transformation. The Carnival is also transforming this year with this theme.” Asked about any reservations, the director wants to be reassuring: “I haven’t encountered anyone opposed to this idea. Some were surprised, wondering if there would be a King or not, but the Carnival remains above all a celebration. And even if some disagree, I would tell them to still come and play with the confetti with us. It’s all in good fun.”
A popular and multigenerational event, the Nice Carnival 2026 will, as every year, offer a program rich in festivities spread throughout the city over fifteen days. Parades, animations, and shows will enliven Nice life and attract residents as well as visitors. With “Vive la Reine,” Nice promises a carnival that is both festive and meaningful, where celebration also becomes a message, honoring those who have shaped history and continue to inspire future generations.
