The 91st Fête du Citron® in Menton just finished, starting on February 15 and running for two weeks till March 2. This year’s theme, “Journey(s) to the Stars,” transformed the city into a cosmic celebration, captivating visitors with celestial-inspired displays and events.
Celestial-Themed Exhibitions
The Biovès Gardens have been a focal point of the festival, featuring monumental sculptures crafted from lemons and oranges, depicting stars, planets, and various cosmic phenomena. Access to these gardens was free throughout the event, allowing a wide audience to appreciate the intricate designs. Complementing the citrus displays, the Palais de l’Europe hosted the Orchid and Winter Garden Show, presenting rare plant species in cosmic-themed arrangements, in collaboration with Menton’s Remarkable Gardens and the Association of Orchid and Epiphyte Enthusiasts of France.
Vibrant Parades and Performances
The festival’s dynamic atmosphere was amplified by the Golden Fruit Parades and Night Parades. The Golden Fruit Parades took place on Sundays—February 16 and 23—showcasing floats adorned with citrus fruits, accompanied by musical bands and dance troupes. Night Parades occurred on Thursdays, February 20 and 27, featuring illuminated floats and culminating in fireworks over the Mediterranean, offering a mesmerizing experience for attendees. Giant illuminated foxes amazed the crowds. Themed floats “Stars and Cosmic Phenomena,” drew inspiration from celestial imagery including the winged horse Pegasus.
These artistic creations captivated visitors, blending astronomical themes with the vibrant tradition of citrus artistry. The excited audience responded by throwing confetti in delight.
Engaging Activities and Local Crafts
Beyond the parades, the festival offered a rich program of activities. The Esplanade Francis Palmero hosted a bustling craft market, where artisans presented jewelry, textiles, pottery, and lemon-based products, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage. Additionally, workshops and activities for children, such as citrus painting and star-themed puppet shows, have been organized to engage younger audiences.
Culinary Delights
Gastronomy played a significant role in this year’s festival. Visitors had the opportunity to savour local specialties, including lemon meringue tarts, artisanal lemon liqueurs, and cosmic-themed dishes crafted by local chefs. Cooking workshops were also available for those interested in learning to prepare dishes featuring
Menton’s renowned lemons.
Looking Ahead
As the 91st Fête du Citron® came to a close, attendees and organizers alike reflect on a successful celebration that combined tradition with innovative cosmic themes. The festival continues to be a testament to Menton’s rich cultural heritage and its community’s creativity, leaving participants eagerly anticipating future editions.
The Menton Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron®) dates back to 1895 when local hoteliers suggested organizing a winter parade to attract visitors to the city. By the early 20th century, Menton had established itself as a luxurious winter retreat for European royalty and artists. In 1934, the festival officially became a citrus-themed celebration, reflecting the town’s status as Europe’s largest lemon producer. Over time, it evolved into an internationally renowned event that you see today featuring elaborate lemon and orange sculptures, vibrant parades, and artistic performances. Today, the festival welcomes over 200,000 visitors annually, keeping Menton’s citrus heritage alive while offering a spectacular experience for all.
