Don’t know what to do this weekend on April 1st, 2nd and 3rd in Nice? Whether you’re a fan of theater, sports or concerts, the city offers a varied program for all tastes, from Friday to Sunday.
Friday May 1st, 2026
Nice celebrates spring: the Festival of May makes its grand return
It’s impossible to talk about the arrival of May in Nice without mentioning the famous Festival of May, an essential local tradition that celebrates the arrival of spring in a friendly and authentic atmosphere. Organized in the lush setting of the Cimiez Arena Gardens, this festival honors Nice culture in all its forms.
On the program: traditional music and dance, local specialties to taste, entertainment for young and old… A true moment of sharing that brings together both residents and visitors. The event extends throughout the month with several dates, notably the Sundays of May from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., as well as evening entertainment with the “Nocturne des Mai”.
The official launch takes place on May 1st at 11:30 a.m., with among other things the unveiling of the jury’s favorite pick “The May in the spotlight”.
A great opportunity to discover or rediscover Nice traditions in a festive and family atmosphere!
Location: Cimiez Arena Gardens – 184 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez, 06000 Nice
Times: at 11:30 a.m.
Blood donation: a solidarity weekend to save lives
Beyond cultural outings, events and seaside walks, this weekend in Nice is also an opportunity to get involved for an essential cause: blood, plasma or platelet donation.
The French Blood Establishment reminds us that needs remain constant throughout the year, with approximately 10,000 donations needed each day in France to treat patients. As the extended May weekends approach, mobilization is even more important, as donations tend to decrease while needs never stop.
One donation can save up to three lives, and blood products have a limited shelf life, making regular collections essential.
In Nice and the surrounding area, it is possible to donate blood in organized collections or directly at a donation center. In just a few minutes, this simple gesture can have a concrete and immediate impact for many patients!
All information and appointment bookings are available on the French Blood Establishment website or via the dedicated app.
Location: Nice Blood Donation Center – 3 rue Galléan, 06000 Nice
Times: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
In&Out Festival: queer cinema in the spotlight with a powerful documentary evening
From April 23rd to May 4th, 2026, the In&Out Nice festival offers an engaged program around queer cinema, with screenings, tributes and debates.
Among the highlights, a documentary evening is scheduled early evening at the Belmondo cinema. It sheds light on several portraits of striking queer figures.
The film Lionel Soukaz, desire and lack revisits the career of the pioneering filmmaker and activist of LGBT struggles, while Live and let live: the voice of Jackie Shane traces the destiny of trans soul singer Jackie Shane, a forgotten icon later rediscovered.
A powerful and engaged screening, at the heart of a festival that blends memory, struggle and creation!
Location: Jean-Paul Belmondo Cinema – 16 Place Garibaldi, 06300 Nice
Times: Lionel Soukaz, desire and lack at 3:30 p.m. and Live and let live: the voice of Jackie Shane at 9 p.m. room 1 by reservation!
Saturday May 2nd, 2026
Exhibition “Africa Pop”: a sensory journey to the heart of African cultures in Nice
Looking for an original cultural outing this weekend? Head to the Anatole Jakovsky International Museum of Naive Art which is launching its new immersive exhibition: “Africa Pop”.
Through more than 200 works, this exhibition offers a true journey to the heart of African cultures, highlighting the famous wax fabrics and everyday objects. Conceived as a visual and sensory experience, it explores the richness of textiles as a means of expression, particularly women’s voices across the continent.
The scenography, playful and immersive, plays with materials, colors and recycling to create an original journey, almost like a “giant picture book”.
Interesting bonus: some parts of the exhibition are revealed in spaces normally closed to the public, such as the former apartment of the museum’s curators.
Accessible throughout the summer until October 18th, it’s an excellent weekend outing idea to blend culture, discovery and escape… without leaving Nice!
Location: Anatole Jakovsky International Museum of Naive Art – 23 Avenue de Fabron, 06200 Nice
Times: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Kooltura Festival #2: Cape Verdean immersion in Nice
The Kooltura Festival #2 settles in at the Théâtre de Verdure in Nice from 4 p.m. for an edition dedicated to Cape Verdean and Afro-Lusophone culture.
Presented by Imago Records & Production, in agreement with the City of Nice and Ô Cap Vert, the event offers a festive day between tradition and modernity: live concerts, traditional dances, exhibitions, gastronomy and workshops for all.
On stage, several artists are expected, including Nelson Freitas, Soraia Ramos, Ferro Gaita, Dina Mendes and DJ Moh Jito, alongside many talents from the Cape Verdean scene.
Kooltura Festival #2 promises a friendly and immersive atmosphere in the setting of the Théâtre de Verdure in Nice, in the heart of the city!
Location: Théâtre de la Verdure – 1 Promenade des Anglais, 06000 Nice
Times: at 4 p.m. by reservation!
OGC Nice VS Lens: a decisive match at Allianz Riviera
OGC Nice welcomes RC Lens to the Allianz Riviera for a high-stakes McDonald’s Ligue 1 clash.
Kickoff at 9:05 p.m. for a match that promises to be decisive in the end-of-season race, with crucial points to be gained for both teams.
In a stadium where Nice supporters are always present, the atmosphere promises to be electric. The blue and white fans will fully play their role as the twelfth man to push the Eagles in a match that could carry significant weight in the standings.
Location: Allianz Riviera – Boulevard des Jardiniers, 06200 Nice
Times: at 9:05 p.m. by reservation!
Sunday May 3rd, 2026
Green Market Nice: creators, vintage and vinyl in Old Nice
The GREEN meeting point returns to Nice in the heart of the Old Town, on the Place du Palais de Justice, just steps from Cours Saleya. This free event invites you to stroll and shop locally in a friendly and responsible atmosphere.
On the program: local creators, artists and artisans, as well as a large vinyl market with over 10,000 references, and a dedicated space for vintage and second-hand luxury fashion.
Three worlds united in one place for a day devoted to style, music and sustainable consumption.
A great eco-friendly tip not to miss in Old Nice!
Location: Palais de Justice, Old Nice – 14 Rue de la Préfecture, 06300 Nice
Times: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Gourmet tour of Old Nice: gastronomy under the open sky
Want to discover Nice through taste? This guided gastronomic tour offers a flavorful immersion in the heart of Old Nice.
Starting from Quai des États-Unis, a specialist guide in culinary arts takes you for approximately four hours through historic streets to discover Nice’s culinary identity.
On the program: about twenty tastings from local artisans, featuring olive oils, cheeses, charcuterie, past
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