The Nice Carnival 2025, themed as the King of the Oceans, extends beyond the grand avenues and traditional festivities. On Thursday, February 20th, a brand new event emerged: the Carnival de la Mar, a local initiative organized at Colonel Jean Pierre Square, Rue Trachel.
Behind this celebration lies a strong desire: to strengthen social bonds and raise awareness about environmental protection. A decidedly festive program brought together young and old around creative workshops, shows, and interactive activities.
The idea originated from the Mediation Service of the City of Nice, established in 2023, as explained by Fatima Khaldi-Bououghroum, the deputy delegate for the Rives du Paillon and mediation: “Why not here? We wanted to create a neighborhood event where residents, shopkeepers, and associations could come together. This carnival is a first, but certainly not the last.”
The objective was clear: to bring the spirit of the carnival to the neighborhoods, far from the city center, while highlighting eco-citizenship.
A Festive and Engaged Program
From 1:30 PM, Colonel Jean Pierre Square took on the appearance of a popular festival. Children made masks inspired by the ocean depths, while a carnival mural emerged throughout the afternoon. A retrospective exhibition on the Nice Carnival allowed visitors to rediscover its history.
Several stands also had an educational dimension:
- Graines de fermier: raising awareness about recycling green waste.
- Nice Côte d’Azur Cleanliness Service: tips on maintaining public spaces.
- Nice Côte d’Azur Collection Service: information on waste sorting.
- Public Tranquility Mediation Service: discussions on better community living.
A highlight of the day was the grand “ball” dance, where families and children shared a moment of conviviality and joy.
A Celebration That Brings People Together
This Carnival de la Mar gathered numerous residents, delighted to see their neighborhood being celebrated.
Karine, who came with her children, shares: “We hear about the Nice Carnival everywhere, but we didn’t think there would be such a warm event in a neighborhood like this. It’s a wonderful surprise.”
The children, on their part, were thrilled. They had prepared their ocean-themed crowns and masks with their associations before coming. “They knew exactly what they were going to do today, and they were looking forward to it!”, explains Fatima Khaldi-Bououghroum.
A First Success, and What’s Next?
This first neighborhood carnival will not be an isolated experience. The deputy mayor assures: other events are planned, such as egg hunts and pétanque competitions. The idea is to continue to animate the neighborhoods and strengthen social cohesion.
The Carnival de la Mar successfully combined festivity, ecological commitment, and a spirit of sharing. A successful first edition that could well become an unmissable event.
