Carnaval de Nice 2025 in Provence & French Riviera

The Nice Carnival celebrated along the stunning French Riviera, is one of the oldest and most renowned carnivals in the world. With a history that spans centuries, this grand celebration has evolved into an unmissable extravaganza, drawing visitors from across the globe.

Origins

The Nice Carnival was first mentioned in 1294, when the Count of Provence, Charles Anjou, visited Nice and spent "some joyous days of carnival." Back then, it was rather a private event without street entertainment and "flower battles." The Nice Carnival, as we know it today, originated in the 19th century, when the first street parades were held, and it became an annual event. Now, it attracts around a million visitors every year. Almost daily parades are the biggest attractions of the Carnival, blending historical traditions and new trends, such as Lou Queernaval, the first gay Carnival in France.

Carnival Highlights

For two vibrant weeks, the city of Nice comes alive with the excitement of its legendary festivities. Highlights include the dazzling "Carnival Parades" (or "Corsi") held both day and night, as well as the graceful "Flower Parades," making this event truly unforgettable. The celebration features an array of elaborately decorated floats inspired by the season's theme, moving to the lively rhythms of street art troupes and musical ensembles from around the globe. All of this unfolds in a colorful, joyful atmosphere perfect for families and visitors alike.

Opening Parade (February 15, 2025)

The celebrations start with a grand parade of around 20 themed floats that are made with traditional papier mache techniques and usually feature giants and puppets in wonderful costumes. The floats parade on Place Masséna from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. The main participants of the procession include the King, Queen, Carnavallon, musical bands, dancers, and foreign guests. In the evening, the parades light up and move to the beat of music groups and visual entertainment, the Carnival floats igniting the hearts of spectators.

Flower Parade (Batailles de fleurs) (February 19, 22, 26; March 1, 2025)

Flower Parade is perhaps the most famous parade of Côte d'Azur. Held on various days throughout the Carnival, the famous Batailles de fleurs take place at the Albert 1st Gardens and Place Masséna. During ​the parade, elegant costumed characters ride on amazing floats decorated with floral compositions. In addition, thousands of fragrant fresh-cut flowers are thrown from the floats to the crowds. Overall, 100,000 stems are thrown to the public, and 3,000 flowers are used in decorations. Performances take place on Saturdays and Wednesdays during the afternoon and last around 1 hour 30 minutes.

Closing Ceremony (March 1–2, 2025)

The grand finale of the Nice Carnival unfolds on the last Sunday with a spectacular display of fireworks and the symbolic burning of the Carnival King. This ancient tradition marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring, embodying renewal and continuity. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the King's fiery departure paves the way for the announcement of the theme for the next Carnival. The ceremony, held at the Promenade des Anglais, is free for all to attend, offering a fitting conclusion to this vibrant celebration.

Tickets

Tickets for the Nice Carnival offer access to the Carnival Parade of Lights, the Carnival Parade, and the Flower Parade, with pricing depending on seating zones. Grandstand tickets at Place Masséna are the highest-priced, starting at €31 for the Parade of Lights and €28 for the Flower Parade, while pedestrian zone tickets provide a more affordable option, starting at €7.

Special packages combining two shows, such as the Parade of Lights and the Flower Parade, are available starting from €40. Doors open two hours before the start of the show. If you come in costume from head to toe, entrance is free in pedestrian areas for the Corsi parades. The Flower Parade, on the other hand, is accessible only with a purchased ticket, even if you come in costume.