Fête du Citron (Menton Lemon Festival) 2025 in Provence & French Riviera
The bright, colorful, and fragrant Lemon Festival is among the most important events of the Riviera
Dates: February 15-March 2, 2025
One of the most important events in the French Riviera is the Lemon Festival, which is held in Menton—the warmest town in the region. It is said that even Queen Victoria herself attended the festival back in 1882. Now, it is a celebration that annually attracts over 200,000 visitors.
Festival Highlights
For three weeks every winter, Menton's streets are filled with a delightful citrus aroma. Giant floats and decorations, exhibitions, parades through the town, and gardens of lights create a vivid and lively atmosphere. The festival ends with a huge party, fireworks, and street dancing.
Night-time Parades (February 20, 27, 2025)
On Thursday, February 20 and 27, at 9 pm, the Promenade du Soleil will come alive with a dazzling display of illuminated floats, each more surprising than the last, as they glide along the promenade to the lively rhythms of brass bands, orchestras, and folk groups. The air will be filled with energy as dancers and revelers, known for their spirited performances, bring enchanting chaos and blazing splendor to the parade, creating a street spectacle worthy of the greatest celebrations.
Golden Fruit Parades (February 16, 23, March 2, 2025)
On Sunday morning, the city bursts into life as buses and cars weave through the streets, creating an endless procession. The crowd moves briskly, stretching along the seaside before gathering by the waterfront while confetti dances in the azure sky above. Atmosphere creators, brass bands, and folk groups swirl and twirl, weaving through the magnificent citrus floats that are the stars of the show. Join us on Sundays from 2:30 pm to 4 pm to immerse yourself in this dazzling spectacle that celebrates the creativity, vibrancy, and beauty of citrus fruits.
Tickets
Adult tickets for the CORSO Seats in the Grandstand are priced at €29, while standing tickets in the Promenoir are €16. Reduced rates apply for groups, with seats in the Grandstand available at €24. For children between 6 and 12 years, the Promenade costs €8, while under-6s enter for free. Child tickets for the Grandstand are available for €14, and disability card holders can access the Grandstand for €14 or the walking area for free.
Organizers recommend arriving before 11 am for the Sunday Festival and before 6 pm for the Thursday Festival. All attendees, including those eligible for free admission, must have a valid ticket. No entry will be permitted 30 minutes before the end of the course.
