4 Fabulous February Festivals on the French Riviera

1. Nice Carnival, Nice | 11 February – 25 February 2017

One of the world’s biggest carnivals, the 2017 theme for this annual event is ‘King of the Energy’.  Fabulous flower battles, parades with floats and costumed actors and animations ensure a family-friendly event with plenty of entertainment.

My top tips:  Don’t forget if you dress in fancy dress, you get FREE standing entry for Zones A and B for the Corso Carnavalesque and Corso Carnavalesque illuminé.  Persons with disabilities also get FREE entry for standing Zone B for the Corso Carnavalesque and Corso Carnavalesque illuminé.

Watch a video of last year’s Carnaval de Nice below (courtesy of Nice Côte d’Azur Tourism) highlighting what to expect during this 2-week party:

2. Fête du Citron, Menton | 11 February – 01 March 2017

Menton’s wonderfully zesty Lemon Festival is bringing ‘Broadway’ to the Mediterranean with a dash of show-stopping citrus sculptures, parades and music.  Read more about how to make the most of your visit to the Fête du Citron in 2017 in my blog post Fête du Citron 2017

3. Fête du Mimosa, Mandelieu la Napoule | 15 February – 22 February 2017

A welcome end to winter days with the brilliant mimosa flowers in the streets of Mandelieu la Napoule for the Fête du Mimosa.  Head along for flower battles, music and animations based around the yellow blooms.

Find out more about the festival schedule at Fête du Mimosa

Fête du Mimosa in Mandelieu la Napoule

4. Festival International des Jeux, Cannes | 24 February – 26 February 2017

A super festival for families with all types of exhibitions with classic and contemporary board games, video games, simulators, toys, sci-fi and fantasy games, wooden games, models, collector cards and more!

Entrance is free, however this year they have introduced a new VIP option (payable for 1 or 3 days) where you get discounts and goodies from show participants.  A great festival for school age children.

My top tip:  They have a coat check facility but be advised it is €2 per item.

Find out the full programme and list of exhibitors here Festival International des Jeux

Festival International des Jeux in Cannes is a great festival for families

Images:  Fête du Citron, France Bleu, Daily Mars, D&F