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The Nice Carnival from 11 February to 1 March 2026
From 11 February to 1 March 2026, Nice will be transformed into a lively and colourful spectacle for Carnival, attracting visitors from all over the world. With over 150 years of history, the Nice Carnival is one of the Côte d'Azur's greatest festivals, celebrating tradition, modernity and creativity. For those who want to experience this unique event in a comfortable and authentic way, Clévacances offers quality accommodation, perfect for enjoying every moment of the Carnival.
The Nice Carnival: A unique tradition to discover with Clévacances
The history of Nice Carnival: deep roots and a unique tradition
The origins of the Nice Carnival date back to 1294, when a written mention by Charles d'Anjou, Count of Provence, refers to "the joyous days of Carnival" spent in the city of Nice. But it was in 1873 that the Nice Carnival took on a structured form, thanks to the initiative of a local man, Andriot Saëtone, who created the "Comité des fêtes". With the support of the municipality, he organised the first float processions, introducing illustrators and paying spectators. Alexis Mossa, a visionary artist, brought artistic direction to the festivities, followed by his son Gustave Adolf, who modernised the event while anchoring Carnival in contemporary and mythological themes.
Battles of Flowers: the elegance of Carnival
In 1876, the Carnival of Nice saw the birth of a new tradition, the famous Flower Battles. This poetic concept, dreamt up by the poet-gardener Alphonse Karr, transforms simple exchanges of flowers into a spellbinding spectacle, showcasing local floral produce. The Flower Battles quickly became the emblematic element of the Nice Carnival, combining elegance and beauty.
Each float parades, adorned with thousands of flowers, to the applause of a captivated public. Young women dressed in traditional costumes throw flowers to the public, creating a romantic and poetic atmosphere.
The evolution of Carnival: from world wars to street art
The first poster for the Nice Carnival dates back to 1889. This prestigious event has not always been able to run without interruption; the world wars prevented the Carnival from being held for several years. In 1991, although the Carnival was to have been the "King of Fools", the Gulf War also led to its cancellation, recalling that of 1940.
Since 2005, the Carnival has evolved with the street arts, becoming an event open to the world. Today, more than 50 local, national and international troupes take part in the Corsos and Flower Battles, bringing energy and creativity to the event. These colourful and exuberant troupes add a new dimension to the Carnival, making Nice one of the biggest and most prestigious carnivals in the world.
The Nice Carnival 2026: "Long live the Queen!"
From February 11 to March 1, 2026, the Côte d'Azur lights up for one of the biggest carnivals in the world!
Placed under the theme "Vive la Reine! ", this 152ᵉ edition of the Carnaval de Nice promises a majestic spectacle blending humour, poetry and extravagance.
Historical queens, legendary heroines, contemporary figures and icons from all over the world will invite themselves into a colourful parade, driven by the creativity of Nice carnival-goers.
Between lit corsos, flower battles and royal parades, the city comes alive to the rhythm of brass bands, giant floats and sparkling costumes. A unique, festive and family-friendly experience, to be enjoyed at least once in your life!
Nice Carnival 2026 programme
- Wednesday 11 February - Carnival Opening - Le Grand Charivari
📍 Maison du Carnaval - 🕓 16:00 - 🎟️ Free - Friday 13 February - Bal Veglione
📍 Opéra de Nice - 🕖 19h00 - Saturday, February 14 - La Carnavalina
📍 City Centre - 🕑 14:00 - 🎟️ Free - Saturday 14 February - Corso Illuminé d'Ouverture
📍 Place Masséna - 🕘 21h00 - Wednesday 18 February - Flower Battle
📍 Place Masséna - 🕝 2.30pm - Friday 20 February - Lou Queernaval (inclusive carnival)
📍 Place Masséna - 🕗 8.00pm - 🎟️ Free (booking required) - Saturday, February 21 - Flower Battle
📍 Place Masséna - 🕝 2:30 pm - Saturday 21 February - Illuminated Carnival Corso
📍 Place Masséna - 🕣 8.30pm - Sunday 22 February - Corso Carnavalesque d'Aqui (daytime edition)
📍 Place Masséna - 🕝 2.30pm - Tuesday 24 February - Illuminated Carnival Corso
📍 Place Masséna - 🕣 8.30pm - Wednesday, February 25 - Flower Battle
📍 Place Masséna - 🕝 2:30 pm - Friday 27 February - Lou Queernaval
📍 Place Masséna - 🕗 8pm - 🎟️ Free (booking required) - Saturday, February 28 - Flower Battle
📍 Place Masséna - 🕝 2:30pm - Saturday 28 February - Closing Illuminated Carnival Corso
📍 Place Masséna - 🕣 8.30pm - Sunday 1 March - Festivités de Clôture & Grand Bain de Carnaval
📍 Quai des États-Unis - 🕙 10:00 am - 🎟️ Free admission
A stay with Clévacances to experience Carnival with peace of mind
To attend this unique festival, accommodation plays an essential role. With Clévacances, find the ideal rental to enjoy Carnival in Nice while relaxing in pleasant, comfortable surroundings. Clévacances accommodation offers certified quality and an authentic setting, perfect for discovering Nice and its festivities.
Whether it's a flat in the city centre, a character house or a villa overlooking the Mediterranean, Clévacances accommodation ensures easy access to the major Carnival events while allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the Côte d'Azur.
Nice Carnival: an unforgettable event to be experienced to the full
To take part in the Nice Carnival is to plunge into a world of colour, music and folklore. This festive event, which attracts visitors from all over the world every year, showcases the cultural richness of Nice and its carnival tradition. With the 2026 theme "Long live the Queen!", spectators will experience a spectacular moment full of meaning, where art and ecology meet in a joyful atmosphere.
Don't miss the opportunity to discover this exceptional festival and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Côte d'Azur. Book your accommodation with Clévacances now and experience the Carnaval de Nice in the best possible conditions. Whether you're travelling as a family, with friends or as a couple, Clévacances offers accommodation to suit all tastes, where comfort and quality accompany you throughout your stay.
For a holiday made easy, choose Clévacances
The Carnival in Nice is a unique experience to share. With Clévacances, enjoy every moment of this great festival, in accommodation that suits you. Make this trip an unforgettable memory by combining the authenticity of Clévacances and the magic of the Carnival in Nice.
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