Rain, rain go away, come back another day… at least until after March 3rd, if you insist. In the vibrant heart of Nice, amidst this chilly grip of mid-February, the kaleidoscopic spectacle of the Nice Carnival is in mid-flight. The weather isn’t helping is it! Even more reason to continue this colourful tradition that has been spanning over 150 years.
Picture this: colossal inflatable sculptures soaring high, reverberating with live music, enveloped in cascades of confetti, while floral warfare ensues in the battle of flowers, all set against the backdrop of captivating night parades. And what reigns supreme this year? None other than the resplendent theme of “The King of Pop Culture.”
We are definitely getting what we want. The sculptures are world-class, absolutely massive and imaginative. How much work and artistry go into this is incalculable. Applause, applause.
As winter’s grip tightens, and shadows lengthen, and this years’s rain tries to dampen enthusiasm, the collective yearning for warmth and festivity wins out and even manages to reach its crescendo. Don’t waste time dreaming about distant shores, of Rio and that particular famous flamboyant Carnival. Here we have a closer, more enticing answer lying right in the azure embrace of our local Mediterranean.
The grandest celebration on the European continent is unfolding in front of our eyes.
Let’s put Nice at the head of the triumvirate of carnival splendor: Rio, Venice, and Nice. Nice deserves it, not to mention you can revel in the opulent splendor of neighbouring Monaco. Yes, the Nice Carnival is a regal affair indeed, traditionally, of course, presided over by the illustrious King and Queen.
The age-old traditions of the Nice Carnival are playing out. Don’t miss out. February 17th was only the start. Happy times are here until March 3rd.
The King of Pop Culture
The King of Pop Culture leads the procession through the winding streets of the city. Enter the carnival village at Jardin Albert I, a vibrant hub teeming with entertainment, gastronomic delights, and captivating shows.
In the midst of the parade, the King oversees a retinue of over fifty colossal puppets, the Grosses Têtes, each towering twelve meters high and weighing up to two tons, casting jubilant gazes upon the throngs below. Imagine. Actually, you can’t. You have to be there to believe. Modern rhythms now accompany the procession, a far cry from the medieval melodies once borne by instruments crafted from calabash gourds—a nod to the carnival’s storied past.
Battle of the Flowers
In Masséna Square, as part of the extravaganza lies the iconic Flower Parade, a tradition dating back to 1876.
And it’s been moved to tonight. Don’t miss it. Aptly dubbed the “battle of flowers,” performers adorn the air with fragrant blossoms, showering the revellers in a floral symphony—an ode to joy. Devoid of any real conflict, maybe, but there’s always a palpable exuberance that raises the emotions. Fun for all and definitely family friendly.
Seven Centuries and Counting
Delve into the annals of history, and unearth the rich tapestry of the Carnival of Nice—a saga spanning over seven centuries, steeped in regal splendor. Its genesis, heralded by the visitation of Count Charles of Anjou, echoes through time, casting a luminous aura upon the festivities.
Throughout the ages, Carnival has evolved, yet retained its essence—a jubilant prelude to Lent, where indulgence reigns supreme before the solemnity of the season. As twilight descends upon the final eve of revelry, a mock monarch takes his leave, sailing into the azure expanse, his effigy ablaze—a poignant farewell amidst the resplendent fireworks that illuminate the Bay of Angels.
Thus, the Nice Carnival metamorphoses—an ever-evolving symphony of sparkle and imagination, a radiant testament to the enduring spirit of celebration, etched against the canvas of the Mediterranean sky.
Remember to get there early, 2 hours before is recommended and make sure you book your ticket to your favoured event. See https://www.nicecarnaval.com/en/2024-edition/official-programme/
Carnival Parade of Lights
In the evening, the floats are decked out with beautiful lights. Everything lights up, the visual spectacle becomes even more amazing, and the arts and music troupes that bring the route to life offer a real sound and light show.
The day’s carnival parade
The best option for families and small children! During the day, watch the parade of floats and giant heads and spend a festive, colourful afternoon in the imaginary, magical world of the Ymagiers and Carnival creators.
Awaiting You On March 1st
K-POP NIGHT
Organized by the City of Nice, Play Azur, and the Metropolitan Tourism Office.
Come and experience a 100% K-pop event at the Théâtre de Verdure. An opportunity to discover and/or share the passion for Korean music! The program includes dance shows, K-pop random play dance, DJ set, initiation, food trucks, games, and your good vibes!
- 4:00 PM: Doors open
- 5:00 PM: K-pop Initiation: come and discover the basics of K-pop dance (movements, principles, style…) and learn original choreographies danced by famous K-pop groups. Open to all.
- 6:00 PM: Quiz/Blind Test
- 6:15 PM: Random Play Dance: dance challenge around the best passages of K-pop hits. Everyone can take up the challenge: listen to your favorite choruses and if you know the song and its choreography, stand up and dance.
- 7:15 PM: Quiz/Blind Test
- 7:30 PM: K-pop Show
- 8:00 PM: K-pop DJ
Place: Verdure
Verdure theater
Espace Jacques Cotta
06000 Nice
Tariff conditions: 5 €
Public: Adult, With the family
Awaiting You On March 2nd
The incineration of the King
Quai des États-Unis, facing the Opéra beach
at 10:45 PM
Experience the incineration of the King on the Quai des États-Unis and its fireworks display!
Awaiting You on March 3rd
A day that marks the grand return of the Carnival swim accompanied by a parade of pointus! In conclusion of the Nice Carnival, swimmers and spectators will gather at Opéra Plage to perpetuate this joyful and refreshing tradition. In keeping with the carnival period, participants are invited to come dressed up, adding a festive touch to their swimwear.
- 10:00 AM: Musical performances
- 11:00 AM: Parade of traditional boats with the sailors from “La Mouette
- 11:45 AM: Meet for the grand return of the Carnival Swim (Opera Beach). Participants are encouraged to come dressed up, adding a festive touch to their swimwear!
- 12:00 PM: Speeches and buffet – Registration on-site – Free participation for the benefit of the Nice Plogging association
Place: Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais
Plage du Centenaire
06000 Nice
Tariff conditions: Free
Public: Adult, With the family, Youth
