The Play Azur Festival took over the Palais des Expositions in Nice on April 25th and 26th. For two days, thousands of pop culture enthusiasts gathered around stands, tournaments, and meetings with guests.
Video game stands, illustrators, e-sport competitions, and cosplayers: the Play Azur Festival brings together thousands of enthusiasts in Nice to share their love for pop culture. Over the course of a weekend, curious attendees and regulars alike roam between stands, watch tournaments, and meet various creators and artists.
Cosplays, Gaming, and Asian Atmosphere
Stands follow one another: video games, manga, figurines, independent artists, and e-sport competitions—there’s something for everyone. Visitors move from one activity to another, between video game tournaments and spaces dedicated to creators. In the aisles, cosplays catch everyone’s attention. Pikachu crosses paths with Spider-Man, Superman, and even Star Wars characters, all within a festive atmosphere.
The audience is generally young, often in their twenties, though families and enthusiasts of all ages are also present. At the end of the Palais des Expositions, food trucks complete the experience: sushi, Japanese specialties, and Asian cuisine almost recall the vibrancy of some busy Asian streets. Thomas, 27, who came dressed in Star Wars cosplay, does not hide his enthusiasm: “I’ve been coming for five years. The atmosphere is always incredible, and we meet many people who share the same passions.“
Among the weekend’s guests is voice actor Donald Reignoux, known especially for being the French voice of the character Titeuf. Present for meet-and-greets and signings, he is thrilled to participate in the Play Azur Festival for the first time. “I know it’s one of the must-see and noteworthy conventions in France. I’m very happy to finally come to Nice. I enjoy small, intimate conventions, but I equally love the big events. There’s a huge energy that resonates.“
Race Car Fans Served Well
Among the attractions offered, a stand particularly appeals to motor sport enthusiasts: a driving simulator for Gran Turismo. Seated in a cockpit, participants can take the wheel of a virtual Mazda and try to clock the best time. A few meters from the simulator, Romain, 22, experiences the event for the first time: “I didn’t think there would be so much to do. Between the stands, tournaments, and cosplays, you can easily spend the whole day here.“
A stand that remains accessible until the end of the festival. The goal is simple: achieve the fastest lap possible with only three attempts. No room for error! The top 50 weekend times will win tickets to the Monaco E-Prix, scheduled for mid-May in the Principality. Winners will be notified via email at the end of the festival.
