The Côte d'Azur is generous with holidays and grandiose events, but the carnival in Nice, no doubt, has long become the most important, spectacular and memorable one. It has been held since the 13th century, and the Duke of Anjou is considered the founder. The main arena for holding carnival events is Place Massena, but the rest of the city streets do not lag behind it in the number of bright participants and the luxury of a festive setting.
The shore of carelessness
For two weeks of February, Nice and the entire Mediterranean coast of France are immersed in an atmosphere of colorful and carefree fun. Thematic parades replace each other, and a variety of professional artists and just amateurs take part in them. Clowns and jugglers, horse riders and musicians, magicians and equilibrists pass through the streets during the carnival in Nice.
The first to appear before the enthusiastic audience are the participants in the Platform Parade. Over the years, the number of these decorated self-propelled installations ranges from 15 to 20 pieces and each is a real work of design art.
The theme of the carnival is also set annually and the word "king" is certainly present in its title. Carnival in Nice represented the King of Sport and Gastronomy, Circus and Fashion, Sea and Flowers. By the way, it is flowers that are indispensable participants in the holiday, and their own processions and parades are dedicated to them. The most famous representatives of the fashion world take part in the flower demonstrations. Models dance on platforms that run through the city streets and throw flowers at the audience.
Entry formalities
To get to the main events of the carnival, you will have to buy tickets:
- Entrance to flower parades during the entire carnival - from 10 euros without a reserved seat and from 25 with it.
- It costs the same to be present at the Parades of Lights.
- You can visit the show in honor of the opening of the holiday and the ceremonial burning of the King during the closing ceremony for free.
- Children under 6 years old are admitted to all events free of charge.
During the carnival, prices for hotels in Nice and the entire Cote d'Azur traditionally rise. Early booking of tours to Nice will help to significantly save money and choose the room and hotel that best meet the requirements and requests of the traveler.
The exact prices for tickets and the schedule of events are published annually and in advance on the website - www.nicecarnaval.com.
