February on the French Riviera: the Gentle Season of Great Traditions

While winter imposes its slow pace and short days elsewhere, the French Riviera in February reveals a bright and lively atmosphere. Villages awaken, and the region’s iconic flowers take center stage in festivities unique in Europe.
These events, deeply rooted in local heritage, offer a refined and cultural way to discover the Riviera off-season.

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Mimosa Festival – Mandelieu-la-Napoule & Tanneron Massif

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Dates 2026: February 11 – 15
Theme 2026: "The Carnival of Carnivals"

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In Mandelieu-la-Napoule, the winter bloom inspires several days of festivities, including floral parade floats, cultural activities, and outdoor events. Visitors can also enjoy immersive walks:

• The hills of Mandelieu and historic mimosa-growing districts, accessible on foot or via marked trails.
• The Tanneron Massif, with its vast golden forests, offers panoramic trails perfect for a winter hike filled with the scent of mimosa.

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Menton Lemon Festival

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Dates 2026: February 14 – March 1
Theme 2026: "Wonders of Life"

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Every year, Menton transforms into an open-air gallery. The Biovès Gardens host monumental sculptures entirely made of lemons and oranges, while the “Corso of Golden Fruits” parades animate the streets day and night.
After the 2025 edition dedicated to extraordinary journeys, this year celebrates the living world, biodiversity, and the imagination it inspires, blending creativity, craftsmanship, and local traditions.

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Nice Carnival

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Dates 2026: February 14 – March 1
Theme 2026: "Long Live the Queen!"

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After the 2025 edition focused on great explorers, the Nice Carnival this year celebrates women. Monumental floats, satirical parades, and marching bands fill the city with a festive and artistic atmosphere. The traditional flower battles along the Promenade des Anglais offer an elegant and poetic spectacle where heritage, creativity, and the Riviera lifestyle come together.

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Violet Festival – Tourrettes-sur-Loup
Date 2026: March 1

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In this medieval village of the hinterland, the violet is celebrated through traditional parades, artisanal markets, and local products. This festival preserves a historic know-how and immerses visitors in the village’s unique identity.

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