The Lemon Festival in Menton from 14 February to 1 March 2026

The Lemon Festival® in Menton: a unique event to discover with Clévacances

The origins of a unique festival

The Lemon Festival® dates back to the 1890s, when the hoteliers of Menton suggested to the municipality that they create a winter parade to boost the town. In 1896, the first parade saw the light of day, delighting locals and wealthy visitors who had come to seek the sun on the Côte d'Azur. At the time, it was fashionable to spend the winter months in Menton, where the climate was milder than elsewhere. Kings, princes, artists and wealthy travellers frequented the town's palaces, some even building sumptuous villas here. The 1882 parade remains engraved in people's memories, with the presence of Queen Victoria, spectator of a grandiose fireworks display over the bay of Garavan. 

Lemons enter the scene and transform the party

At the beginning of the 20th century, Menton became Europe's leading lemon producer. A visionary hotelier then proposed adding an exhibition of citrus fruits and flowers in the town's gardens, more specifically at the Hôtel Riviera in 1929. Such was its success that the festival expanded and took to the streets. In 1934, the first official Fête du Citron® took shape, with floats decorated with lemons and oranges, accompanied by charming Mentonnaises. What had been a simple parade became a veritable institution. Two years later, the Biovès gardens hosted the first citrus exhibition, with giant sculptures made of lemons and oranges. François Ferrié, the artist responsible for designing the motifs, brings an artistic dimension that is confirmed and amplified every year.

After the festivities, recycling the citrus fruits

At the end of the festivities, the citrus fruits used to create the impressive designs are carefully removed from the structures and sorted. A tradition allows visitors to buy the lemons and oranges that lit up the festival. After attracting attention, the fruit is often made into juice, jam or liqueur. Crowds flock to the Jardins Biovès every year to buy these fruits, emblematic souvenirs of the Fête du Citron®.

Clévacances, your partner for a perfect stay

Attending the Fête du Citron® in Menton is a unique experience that should be enjoyed at least once. To make this an unforgettable getaway, choose a Clévacances accommodation. With our accommodation, you can immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, explore Menton and the surrounding area, and return each evening to a welcoming and comfortable space. Don't wait any longer to book and discover this cultural jewel of the Côte d'Azur in the best conditions.
With Clévacances, enjoy an unforgettable stay in Menton for the Fête du Citron®, where comfort and authenticity await you.