The Nice Carnival is one of the most colourful and vibrant carnivals in the world. It is a celebration of the end of winter and the beginning of spring and takes place over two weeks in mid-February every year in the city of Nice, French Riviera, and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. It usually runs along the Promenade des Anglais, a large avenue alongside the Mediterranean Sea and often leads to the Place Masséna, a central square with many facilities to watch the performance. The carnival features parades, street performances, music and lots of fun and excitement for everyone.              

The Parades

La “Bataille de Fleurs” or Flower Parade – This is one of the highlights of the carnival and features floats covered in flowers and other natural materials, along with performers in elaborate costumes. The flower parade takes place on the Promenade des Anglais and attracts large crowds of locals and tourists alike. In 2023, 20 floats will partake, all beautifully decorated with massive flower arrangements and over 100,000 flowers, from lilac to gerberas and mimosas, will be distributed by models & comedians, all dressed up!

Les “Corso carnavalesques illuminés” or Parade of Lights – This parade is made up of colourful costumes and elaborate floats and is accompanied by music and dancing. Each year features a different theme and 2023 celebrates “the Kings of all worlds ‘treasures” with over 1000 musicians, actors and dancers spread around 17 floats. It is truly magical!

One of the unique features of the Nice Carnival is the “Carnival King,” or “Roi du Carnaval” in French. This is a figurehead who represents the spirit of the carnival, and who is paraded around the city before being burnt in a bonfire on the last day of the carnival. The burning of the Carnival King symbolizes the end of the season and the beginning of Lent.

Plenty of other events and activities take place during the carnival, such as street performances, concerts, and fireworks displays. All are suitable for families and make for a fun day or evening out. Many local restaurants and bars also offer special menus and drinks during the carnival season.

History of the Carnival

The history of the Nice Carnival dates back to the Middle Ages, when the locals celebrated the end of winter and the beginning of spring. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that the carnival became the grand event that it is today. In 1873, it was officially recognized, and since then it has been an important cultural and tourist attraction for the city.

Nice features one of the oldest and most well-known carnivals in the world, and it has had a significant influence on the development of other carnivals around the globe. It has inspired the creation of new carnival traditions in different countries, as well as helped revive old traditions in others.

One of the main ways that the Nice Carnival has influenced other carnivals is through its focus on elaborate costumes and floats, especially the flower floats. For example, in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro Carnival, one of the largest carnivals in the world, the samba schools got inspired by the bright & colourful decorations of Nice to create their own massive floats.