The Nice Carnival is a legendary festival in France, taking place primarily along the Promenade des Anglais, in the Albert I Gardens, and on Place Masséna. It is the largest carnival in France, the oldest — dating back to the 13th century — and one of the most internationally renowned, alongside Rio and Venice.
Held each year in February, and sometimes extending into early March in accordance with the Christian calendar of Lent, the Nice Carnival will take place in 2026 from February 11 to March 1. Each edition adopts a new theme, shaping the design of floats, costumes, and artistic creations, making every year a completely renewed experience.
The carnival unfolds through several major highlights. The Corso Carnavalesque features large decorated floats accompanied by musicians, dancers, and street performers. The Battle of Flowers showcases floats covered with more than 100,000 fresh flowers, thrown to the public by costumed performers. The Lou Queernaval, recognized as France’s first gay carnival, celebrates diversity, inclusion, and freedom of expression.
Throughout the event, a Carnival Village comes to life, offering workshops, live music, crafts, food trucks, and entertainment in an open and festive atmosphere.
The celebrations conclude with the symbolic cremation of the Carnival King, followed by a grand fireworks display over the Mediterranean Sea, accompanied by the traditional song Nissa La Bella, marking the end of nearly three weeks of intense festivities.
The Nice Carnival stands apart for its uninterrupted tradition since the Middle Ages, one of the world’s largest flower parades, a constantly evolving artistic vision, an international dimension, and a strong commitment to inclusivity.
