Practical · Festivals
Festivals and tickets on the French Riviera
The Riviera’s big festivals sell out early. Book through the organisers’ own websites.
Updated October 2026
Carnival and lemons
The Nice Carnival, which calls itself the first carnival in France with an international character, runs from 9 to 28 February 2027 on the theme “Vive l’Amour” (nicecarnaval.com). Menton’s Fête du Citron, with its parades of golden fruit and night parades, runs from 13 to 28 February 2027 (fete-du-citron.com).
The Festival de Cannes
The 80th festival runs from 11 to 22 May 2027. See our Festival de Cannes guide for its history and how to take part.
Opera, ballet and concerts
The Opéra Nice Côte d’Azur publishes its season and sells tickets on its own website. Monaco’s opera and the Grand Prix are covered in our Monaco guide.
Book direct
Buy from the organiser or venue only, and check the date, the seat and any fees before you pay.
Questions and answers
When is the Nice Carnival?
9 to 28 February 2027 (nicecarnaval.com).
When is the Fête du Citron?
13 to 28 February 2027 in Menton (fete-du-citron.com).