The Nice Carnival and the Lemon Festival are two must-attend events in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, attracting hundreds of thousands of fans each year. These colorful and emotional festivities are an opportunity to discover the cultural and artistic heritage of the region. It is also a simple and direct way to support the local economy by generating revenue for local stakeholders (artisans, shopkeepers, service providers, etc.).
Practical Parking for the Festivities in Nice and Menton
During these major events, public parking lots will be crowded. Therefore, it is advisable to reserve a parking space now to avoid last-minute issues.
Nice: Interparking Sulzer Parking
During the Nice Carnival, finding a parking spot can quickly become a headache. To avoid any hassle, choose the convenience of Nice Parking Sulzer by Interparking. Just minutes from the main carnival sites, it offers direct access from the heart of the city.
- Number of spaces: 452;
- 3 fast-charging electric stations available;
- Access: 103 Quai des États-Unis, 06300 Nice.
You can also reserve a spot at the Interparking Ruhl Méridien Parking to park your vehicle. It is also located near the carnival.
Menton: Interparking Vieille Ville Sablettes Parking
Are you attending the Lemon Festival and going by car? Make your life easier by booking at Menton Parking Interparking Vieille Ville Sablettes to park and fully enjoy the event.
Located on the seafront, this monitored covered parking allows easy access to the Old Town and to enjoy the charms of Menton.
- Number of spaces: 435;
- 10 fast-charging electric stations available;
- Access: 2 Rue Lepante, Place Fontana, 06500 Menton.
Close to Sablettes Beach and the historical center, this parking area is perfect for a stroll after admiring the flower-decked floats.
The Nice Carnival: A Centuries-Old and Colorful Tradition
First celebrated in February 1873, the Nice Carnival will celebrate its 152nd edition in 2025. From February 12 to March 2, “Nissa la bella” transforms into a true festival stage, as it does every year!
A Spectacular Show
Alongside Venice and Rio, this famous event in Nice, which enhances the renown of the Côte d’Azur, is one of the largest carnivals in the world. It invites thousands of visitors to immerse themselves in a magical world where joy and good humor reign.
The streets of the City of Angels vibrate to the rhythm of the “corsi carnavalesques,” gigantic floats created by talented artisans, parading before the amazed spectators.
Highlights of the Carnival
- Day and night carnival processions: spectacular parades where floats come alive to the music.
- Flower battles: a Niçoise tradition where spectators are showered with flowers by passing floats.
- The “grosses têtes,” these humorous emblematic figures of the Carnival, add a touch of madness to these colorful parades.
- Dancing evenings: a chance to dance the night away to the rhythm of contemporary music.
Each year, a different theme is chosen to inspire float creators. In 2025, the theme will be unveiled soon.
A Sensory Journey into the Heart of the Lemon Festival in Menton
About thirty kilometers from Nice, Menton, or the “Pearl of France,” is also preparing a festive event under the auspices of its tourist office.
From February 15 to March 2, 2025, the city dons its best colors to celebrate the Lemon Festival. For more than two weeks, it is filled with the scents of citrus and spectacular floral creations.
Breathtaking Ephemeral Floats
Guess what? The “corsos des fruits d’or” are at the heart of the Lemon Festival in Menton. These are gigantic floats, entirely made of citrus fruits, parading through the city’s streets, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. Artisans create ephemeral works of art that celebrate nature and creativity.
Program Highlights
- Golden fruit processions (February 16, 23, and March 2): fruit-shaped floats parade the streets of Menton.
- Night parades (February 20 and 27): illuminated parades offering a magical spectacle.
- Citrus motifs exhibition (February 15 to March 2): sculptures made from citrus fruits exhibited in the Biovès Gardens.
- Artisan fair (February 15 to March 2): a chance to discover the expertise of local artisans (lemonade, orange wine, jams, limoncello, Menton lemon olive oil…)
- Orchid festival (February 15 to March 2): an event for flower enthusiasts.
