The Ultimate Nice Carnival 2026 Guide: Dates, Tickets & Parade Highlights

Your complete insider’s guide to experiencing the 152nd edition of France’s most spectacular winter festival

Welcome to the most comprehensive guide to the Nice Carnival 2026! This year marks a historic milestone. For the first time in over 200 years of carnival history, Nice will celebrate a Queen instead of a King. The theme? “Vive la Reine!” — Long Live the Queen!

Whether you’re planning your first visit to the French Riviera or returning for another magical carnival experience, this guide covers everything you need to know. From ticket prices and parade schedules to insider tips and accommodation recommendations, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s dive into everything that makes the Carnaval de Nice one of the world’s top three carnivals, alongside Rio de Janeiro and Venice.

When Is Nice Carnival 2026? Complete Festival Dates and Duration

The Nice Carnival 2026 runs from Wednesday, February 11 to Sunday, March 1, 2026. That’s 19 days of non-stop festivities in the heart of the French Riviera.

Here’s a quick overview of the key dates:

The festival spans nearly three weeks. This gives visitors flexibility in planning their trip. Peak attendance occurs during the illuminated evening parades on Saturdays and the famous Mardi Gras celebration on February 17.

What Is the Nice Carnival 2026 Theme? Celebrating “Long Live the Queen”

The 2026 Nice Carnival theme is “Vive la Reine!” — which translates to “Long Live the Queen!” This marks a revolutionary shift in carnival tradition.

For over two centuries, the Nice Carnival has celebrated a King. Every year, a massive King float towers over Place Masséna. At the end of festivities, the King is ceremonially burned. But 2026 changes everything.

Mayor Christian Estrosi made the historic announcement: “Le Roi est mort. Vive la Reine!” (The King is dead. Long live the Queen!)

Which Heroines Will Be Honored at Nice Carnival 2026?

The 152nd edition pays tribute to iconic women who shaped history and fiction. Giant floats reaching up to 20 meters tall will feature legendary figures including:

• Marie Curie — The Nobel Prize-winning scientist
• Simone Veil — French politician and Holocaust survivor
• Joséphine Baker — Singer, dancer, and Resistance hero
• Cléopâtre — The legendary Egyptian queen
• Catherine Ségurane — Nice’s local heroine

This feminist theme celebrates warriors, scientists, artists, and political leaders. It transforms the Carnival into a platform of empowerment and inspiration for future generations.

The theme represents more than just entertainment. It’s a symbolic revolution that honors the great female figures who shaped our world.

Nice Carnival 2026 Ticket Prices: Complete Pricing Guide for All Events

Understanding the Nice Carnival ticket pricing structure helps you plan your budget effectively. Prices vary based on location, event type, and seating preferences.

How Much Do Nice Carnival 2026 Tickets Cost?

Here’s the complete breakdown of ticket prices:

Important notes about tickets:

• All admission requires a ticket, including free entry
• Children of all ages must have a ticket, even if free
• Children under 6 enter free but still need a reservation
• Children 3-5 must occupy their own seat (maximum 2 per adult)
• Children 0-2 can sit on an adult’s lap (1 child per adult)

Where to Buy Nice Carnival 2026 Tickets Online

Tickets are available through several channels:

1. Official Online Ticketing: nicecarnaval.com — The primary source
2. Main Ticket Office: Promenade du Paillon (opens February 5, 2026)
3. Nicetoile Shopping Center Kiosk
4. Carrefour Lingostière
5. Nice Tourism Office: 5 Promenade des Anglais

Pro tip: Ticket sales opened on December 17, 2025. Popular events sell out quickly. Book early, especially for:

• Opening night parade (February 14)
• Mardi Gras (February 17)
• Final night parade and fireworks (February 28)

Contact for reservations: +33 (0)4 97 13 36 66

How to Attend Nice Carnival 2026 for Free: Insider Tips

Yes, you can experience the Nice Carnival completely free! Here’s how:

Free Entry With Full Costume

Dress in a full costume from head to toe, and you can enter the pedestrian standing zones for free during:

• All Illuminated Carnival Parades (evening corsos)
• Daytime Carnival Parades

Important rules for free costume entry:

• Wearing a few accessories is not sufficient
• You need a complete, recognizable costume
• Free entry applies to standing areas only, not grandstands
• Collect your free ticket at entrances E1, E2, E3, or E4
• Subject to availability
• Does NOT apply to Flower Battles — all Flower Battle tickets are paid

Prohibited costumes include:

• Military costumes
• Religious costumes
• Offensive or confusing costumes
• Costumes with prohibited accessories

Free Events at Nice Carnival 2026

Several events are completely free (reservation required):

The Carnival Village on Promenade du Paillon offers free:

• Creative workshops
• Exhibition spaces
• Food stalls
• Artistic performances
• Entertainment for all ages

Nice Carnival Parade Schedule 2026: Complete Event Timetable

Illuminated Carnival Parades (Corsi Carnavalesques Illuminés)

The night parades are the crown jewels of the Nice Carnival. Giant illuminated floats light up Place Masséna in a spectacular sound and light show.

What to expect:

• 17 massive floats up to 17 meters high and 12 meters long
• Over 1,000 musicians and dancers from around the world
• Famous “Grosses Têtes” (Big Heads) reaching 20 meters
• Street art troupes and music groups
• Light shows and visual animations
• Duration: approximately 1.5 hours

Flower Battles (Batailles de Fleurs): The Most Elegant Parade

The Bataille de Fleurs is unique to Nice. It’s one of the most beautiful and fragrant traditions in any carnival worldwide.

What makes Flower Battles special:

• 20 decorated floats covered in floral arrangements
• Over 100,000 fresh flowers thrown to the crowd
• Flowers include mimosas, gerberas, lilies, roses, and carnations
• 80% of flowers are locally grown in the Nice region
• Each float requires approximately 4,000 stems
• Beautifully costumed performers create a fragrant, colorful spectacle
• This tradition dates back to 1876

Note: Free costume entry does NOT apply to Flower Battles. All tickets must be purchased.

Daytime Carnival Parade (Corso Carnavalesque Diurne)

Perfect for families with young children, the daytime parade offers the same magic in a more accessible setting.

The daytime parade features:

• Floats and colorful “Grosses Têtes” (Big Heads)
• Music and artistic troupes
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• Less crowded than evening events
• Ideal for young children

Corso d’Aqui: The Folk Parade

This special parade features local folk troupes showcasing Nice’s traditional heritage. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic Niçois culture.

Lou Queernaval: France’s First Gay Carnival

Lou Queernaval is France’s first and largest gay-friendly carnival. Since 2015, this free event has attracted audiences from around the world.

What to expect:

• Rainbow-colored floats
• Flamboyant costumes
• Batucadas (Brazilian drumming groups)
• Drag queen performances
• LGBTQIA+ artists
• A celebration of inclusion and solidarity

The event reinforces Nice’s image as an LGBTQIA+ friendly destination with many establishments carrying the “Irisée Naturellement” label.

Entry is free but reservation is required.

Best Viewing Spots for Nice Carnival 2026: Where to Watch the Parades

Choosing the right viewing location significantly impacts your experience. Here’s a guide to the best spots:

Zone A: Place Masséna (Premium Experience)

Location: The heart of Nice, centered on Place Masséna

Grandstands in Zone A:

• Max Gallo Tribune
• Jean Jaurès Tribune (largest, best uninterrupted views)
• Masséna Tribune
• Félix Faure Tribune

Advantages:

• Best overall views of floats
• Closest to main action
• Excellent photo opportunities
• Comfortable seating in tribunes

Pedestrian areas at the foot of Max Gallo and Jean Jaurès tribunes allow interaction with performers and Big Heads.

Zone B: Promenade des Anglais

Location: Between Avenue de Verdun and Promenade des Anglais

Advantages:

• Unobstructed views of tall floats (great for seeing full height)
• Slightly lower prices than Zone A
• More relaxed atmosphere
• Good for Flower Battles

Zone C: Jardins Albert 1er Side

Location: Adjacent to Albert 1er Gardens

Advantages:

• Most affordable standing tickets
• Good views for budget-conscious visitors
• Less crowded than Zone A

Insider Tips for Best Views

1. Arrive early — at least 1 hour before parade starts
2. Standing areas offer more interaction with performers
3. Tribune seating guarantees comfort and clear sightlines
4. The Jean Jaurès stand is considered the best tribune for photography
5. Early parade arrivals have better standing positions
6. Consider VIP “Royal Treatment” packages for premium access and behind-the-scenes tours

History of Nice Carnival: From 1294 to Present Day

Understanding the rich history of the Carnaval de Nice enhances your appreciation of this extraordinary event.

When Did Nice Carnival Begin?

The Nice Carnival dates back to 1294. That year, Charles of Anjou, Count of Provence, wrote that he had passed “the joyous days of carnival” in Nice. This is the first recorded mention of carnival festivities in the city.

This makes the Nice Carnival potentially the oldest carnival celebration in the world — predating even Venice and Rio.

The Evolution of Nice Carnival Through the Centuries

Medieval Period (1294-1800s):

• Originally an unorganized street party
• “Abbés des fous” (Abbots of Fools) organized four balls for different social classes
• The word “Carnival” comes from Latin “carne levare” meaning “to remove meat”
• Festivities marked the period before Lent

The Birth of Modern Carnival (1830):

• King Charles-Félix of Sardinia and Queen Marie-Christine visited Nice
• The city organized the first official parade in their honor
• Prominent residents paraded in decorated carriages past the palace balcony
• This parade was such a success that it became an annual tradition

The Mossa Era (1873-1971):

• In 1873, local resident Andriot Saëtone founded a Carnival committee
• Artists Alexis Mossa and his son Gustav-Adolf Mossa transformed the festival
• They created spectacular float designs mixing current events, myths, and grotesques
• Their work is now recognized as UNESCO intangible heritage
• The first modern King of Carnival entered Nice on February 23, 1873

The Flower Battle Tradition (1876):

• The Bataille de Fleurs began as a simple flower exchange
• It evolved into the elegant parade highlighting local flower production
• Today, it remains one of the world’s most unique carnival traditions

Important Historical Facts

The carnival was canceled during both World Wars and in 1991 during the Gulf War.

How to Get to Nice for Carnival 2026: Complete Transportation Guide

Flying to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) is the third busiest airport in France and the main gateway to the French Riviera.

Key facts:

• Located just 7 km (4.3 miles) from the city center
• Two terminals (most international flights use Terminal 1)
• Direct flights from major European and North American cities
• Travel time to city center: 20-30 minutes

Getting from Nice Airport to City Center

Option 1: Tram Line 2 (Best Value)

Ticket pricing:

• €10 round trip from airport vending machines
• €1.70 per journey if you have a “La Carte” rechargeable card
• Free travel between Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Grand Arénas

Pro tip: To avoid the €10 airport ticket price, take the free tram to Grand Arénas station. Purchase a rechargeable card (€2) plus standard fare (€1.70) from machines there.

Option 2: Bus Line 12

Scenic route but buses have limited luggage space.

Option 3: Taxi

Option 4: Ride-Share (Uber/Bolt)

Similar pricing to taxis, often slightly cheaper. Apps work normally in Nice.

Option 5: Private Transfer

Pre-book for a hassle-free, door-to-door experience. Ideal for groups or travelers with extensive luggage.

Arriving by Train

Nice-Ville Train Station is the main railway station, well-connected to:

• Paris (5.5 hours by TGV)
• Lyon (4.5 hours)
• Marseille (2.5 hours)
• Monaco (20 minutes)
• Cannes (30 minutes)

The station is a short walk from Place Masséna and the Old Town.

Getting Around Nice During Carnival

Tram Network:

• Line 1: North-south through city center via Avenue Jean Médecin and Place Masséna
• Line 2: Airport to Port Lympia via city center
• Line 3: Airport to Saint-Isidore via Allianz Riviera

Bus Network:

• Operated by Lignes d’Azur
• Extensive coverage throughout Nice and surrounding areas
• Same tickets valid for trams and buses

Ticket Options:

• Solo (single trip): €1.70
• Multi 10 trips: discounted bulk tickets
• Day Pass: unlimited daily travel
• 7-Day Pass: €15 for unlimited travel

Important: During Carnival, some streets near Place Masséna are closed to traffic. Walking is the best way to navigate the festival area.

Where to Stay During Nice Carnival 2026: Best Hotels Near Place Masséna

Accommodation during the Nice Carnival books up fast. Reserve months in advance for the best options and rates.

Luxury Hotels Near Nice Carnival

Hotel Le Negresco ★★★★★

• Iconic landmark on Promenade des Anglais
• Private beach access
• Full-service spa
• Walking distance to parade route

Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée ★★★★★

• Seafront location
• Art Deco elegance
• Casino on-site
• Steps from Place Masséna

Mid-Range Hotels for Nice Carnival

Best Western Plus Hotel Masséna Nice ★★★★

• 1 minute walk from Place Masséna
• Belle Époque façade with modern interior
• Carnival-themed decorations during festival
• Staff in costume during Carnival
• Photo corner with accessories

Le Meridien Nice ★★★★

• 0.3 miles from Place Masséna
• Pet-friendly
• Business amenities
• Modern comfort

Westminster Hotel & Spa Nice ★★★★

• Near Promenade des Anglais
• Hot tub and fitness center
• Premium satellite channels
• Excellent location

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

AMMI Nice Masséna

• 150 meters from Place Masséna
• Modern aparthotel concept
• Equipped kitchenettes
• 5-minute walk to Promenade des Anglais

Hotel 66 Nice

• 200 meters from Nice Train Station
• 20-minute walk to Old Town
• Soundproofed rooms
• Free bottled water

Ibis Styles Nice Centre Gare

• Near train station
• Free breakfast included
• Modern amenities
• Good value

Accommodation Tips for Nice Carnival 2026

1. Book 3-6 months in advance for best selection
2. Closest neighborhoods: Vieux Nice (Old Town), Centre, Jean Médecin area
3. Consider Cannes, Antibes, or Monaco if Nice is booked out
4. Hotels along tram lines offer easy access
5. Aparthotels with kitchenettes save money on dining
6. Expect peak season pricing during Carnival
7. Look for refundable booking options

Best Things to Do in Nice During Carnival 2026: Complete Activity Guide

Beyond the parades, Nice offers countless experiences to fill your Carnival visit.

Explore Vieux Nice (Old Town)

The Old Town of Nice (Vieux Nice) is a must-visit. This historic district features:

• Narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings
• Baroque architecture including Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate
• Charming cafés and restaurants
• Boutique shops selling Provençal goods
• Art galleries and artisan workshops

Don’t miss:

• Cours Saleya Market — Flower and food market (mornings, Tuesday-Sunday)
• Place Rossetti — Beautiful square with the cathedral and famous ice cream
• Chapelle de la Miséricorde — One of Europe’s finest Baroque churches
• Palais Lascaris — 17th-century noble townhouse museum

Visit Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

Located at the edge of Vieux Nice, Castle Hill offers:

• Panoramic views of the Bay of Angels
• Waterfall and landscaped gardens
• Historic ruins of the medieval citadel
• Free elevator access for those with mobility challenges

The original castle was destroyed by Louis XIV in 1706, but the hill remains Nice’s most popular park.

Walk the Promenade des Anglais

This 7-kilometer seafront promenade is Nice’s crown jewel. Perfect for:

• Leisurely strolls or bike rides
• Jogging alongside Mediterranean views
• Catching stunning sunsets over the Baie des Anges
• People-watching at waterfront cafés

Try Traditional Niçoise Cuisine

Carnival is the perfect time to sample local specialties:

Where to eat:

• Chez Thérèsa at Cours Saleya for the best socca
• La Voglia for Italian cuisine in Old Nice
• Le Bistrot d’Antoine for classic French dishes
• Le Plongeoir for scenic dining on a rock pillar

Visit Nice’s World-Class Museums

Get Ice Cream at Fenocchio

No trip to Nice is complete without ice cream from Fenocchio on Place Rossetti. Try unique flavors like:

• Lavender
• Orange blossom
• Cactus
• Tomato basil
• Olive oil

The shop offers over 100 flavors of gelato and sorbet.

Day Trips from Nice During Carnival 2026: Explore the French Riviera

Menton Lemon Festival 2026 (Fête du Citron)

Running February 14 to March 1, 2026, the Menton Lemon Festival overlaps perfectly with Nice Carnival.

Theme for 2026: “Merveilles du Vivant” (The Wonders of Life)

Highlights:

• Giant citrus sculptures in Jardins Biovès (up to 11 meters tall)
• Corsos des Fruits d’Or (daytime parades): February 16, 23, March 1 at 2:30 PM
• Night parades: February 20, 27 at 9:00 PM with fireworks
• Orchid Festival at Palais de l’Europe (free admission)
• Artisan Fair with lemon-based products

Getting there:

• Train: 30 minutes from Nice-Ville, €11 round trip
• Bus ZOU! 600/601: ~1 hour via coast and Monaco
• Car: 30 minutes via highway

Tip: Combine both festivals! Visit Nice Carnival in the evening and Menton during the day.

Villefranche-sur-Mer Flower Battle on the Sea

On February 16, 2026, Villefranche-sur-Mer hosts its unique aquatic flower parade.

• Twenty decorated “pointus” (traditional fishing boats) parade on turquoise waters
• Fishermen in traditional costumes throw flowers toward shore
• Stunning setting in one of the French Riviera’s most beautiful bays

Getting there: 10 minutes by train from Nice

Monaco

Just 20 minutes by train from Nice, Monaco offers:

• Monte Carlo Casino
• Prince’s Palace
• Oceanographic Museum
• Luxury shopping

Cannes

30 minutes by train, famous for:

• Boulevard de la Croisette
• Old Town (Le Suquet)
• Glamorous boutiques and beaches

Èze

A picturesque hilltop village with:

• Medieval streets
• Exotic Garden
• Stunning coastal views
• Fragonard Perfume Factory

Nice Carnival 2026 Safety and Practical Tips: What You Need to Know

Security at Nice Carnival

The Nice Carnival implements comprehensive security measures:

• Bag checks at all entrances
• Prohibited items include weapons, glass bottles, drones, and large bags
• Security personnel throughout venues
• First aid stations available
• Emergency exits clearly marked

What to Bring to Nice Carnival

Essential items:

• Valid tickets (printed or on smartphone)
• Warm layers (February evenings can be cool, 8-12°C)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera (no professional equipment without permit)
• Cash and cards for food and souvenirs
• Earplugs for children at loud evening events

Leave behind:

• Large backpacks
• Glass containers
• Umbrellas (if rain, use poncho instead)
• Pets (not allowed in main venues)

Best Time to Arrive at Nice Carnival Events

Weather During Nice Carnival 2026

February in Nice offers mild Mediterranean weather:

Tip: Dress in layers. Days are pleasant but evenings can be cool.

Refund Policy for Nice Carnival Tickets

The Nice Carnival offers a refundable ticket option for grandstands and PRM areas:

• Request refund by emailing [email protected]
• Send e-tickets no later than 72 hours before the event
• Refunds are unconditional for eligible tickets

Nice Carnival 2026 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Nice Carnival 2026 Family-Friendly?

Yes! The Nice Carnival is excellent for families. Children under 6 enter free (ticket required), and the daytime parades and Flower Battles are especially suitable for young children. The Carnival Village offers free activities designed for families.

What Is the Best Day to Visit Nice Carnival 2026?

For first-time visitors, Saturday, February 21 offers both an afternoon Flower Battle and an evening Illuminated Parade. Mardi Gras (February 17) is traditionally the most popular night. The closing night (February 28) features the spectacular Queen burning ceremony and fireworks.

Can I Watch Nice Carnival for Free?

Yes! Several options exist:

• Wear a full costume for free standing area access
• Attend free events: Grand Charivari, La Carnavalina, Lou Queernaval, Closing Fireworks
• Visit the Carnival Village daily (free)

How Long Are Nice Carnival Parades?

Each parade lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Evening parades run from 8:30-10:00 PM. Flower Battles run from 2:30-4:00 PM.

Should I Book Nice Carnival Tickets in Advance?

Absolutely! Popular events sell out, especially:

• Opening night
• Mardi Gras
• Final parade with fireworks
• Weekend Flower Battles

Book as early as possible through the official website.

What Happens at the End of Nice Carnival?

The festival concludes on Saturday, February 28 with:

• Final Illuminated Parade at 8:30 PM
• Burning of the Queen ceremony at 10:45 PM
• Spectacular fireworks over Promenade des Anglais
• Traditional singing of “Nissa La Bella” (Nice’s anthem)
• Free public celebration

On Sunday, March 1, a “Carnival Bath” event takes place (details TBA).

How Do I Get to the Nice Carnival Venues?

All main venues are accessible by:

• Tram Line 1: Stop at “Masséna” or “Opéra-Vieille Ville”
• Walking: From most central hotels
• Bus: Multiple routes to Promenade des Anglais

Is Nice Carnival Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! The Nice Carnival is ranked among the world’s top three carnivals alongside Rio de Janeiro and Venice. The 2026 edition’s historic “Queen” theme makes it an especially memorable year to attend. With 19 days of festivities, over 1 million visitors annually, and a 700+ year history, it’s a bucket-list experience.

The Carnival Village: Your Free Hub for Nice Carnival 2026

The Carnival Village (Village Carnaval) on Promenade du Paillon is your daily meeting point during the festival.

Location and Access

• Address: Square Général Leclerc, Promenade du Paillon
• Near: Main ticket office and Entrance E2
• Directly connected to festivities

What’s at the Carnival Village?

Daily Activities

The Village operates daily during Carnival hours with rotating programming including:

• Mask-making workshops
• Traditional Nice crafts
• Live music performances
• Children’s activities
• Photo opportunities

Admission is FREE!

Territorial Carnivals: Carnival in Nice Neighborhoods 2026

Experience authentic neighborhood celebrations at the Territorial Carnivals throughout Nice. These free events run from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM and feature:

• Lively music
• Giant dance parties
• Confetti battles
• Parades of costumed children
• Dance troupes and percussion groups

Territorial Carnival Schedule 2026

These events offer a more local, intimate carnival experience away from the main tourist crowds.

Making the Most of Nice Carnival 2026: Expert Recommendations

3-Day Nice Carnival Itinerary

Day 1: Introduction to Nice

• Morning: Explore Vieux Nice and Cours Saleya Market
• Afternoon: Walk Promenade des Anglais, climb Castle Hill
• Evening: Illuminated Carnival Parade at Place Masséna

Day 2: Full Carnival Experience

• Morning: Day trip to Menton Lemon Festival
• Afternoon: Flower Battle at 2:30 PM
• Evening: Dinner in Old Nice, visit Carnival Village

Day 3: Local Culture

• Morning: Visit Musée Matisse or Chagall Museum
• Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs, try socca at Chez Thérèsa
• Evening: Lou Queernaval or final parade (depending on dates)

Photography Tips for Nice Carnival

1. Evening parades: Use fast lenses (f/2.8 or faster) for low light
2. Flower Battles: Best light in early afternoon
3. Position: Standing zones allow more creative angles
4. Big Heads: Wait for performers to come close
5. Fireworks: Bring tripod for closing night
6. Respect: Ask permission for close-up portraits

Saving Money at Nice Carnival 2026

1. Book accommodation 3+ months ahead for better rates
2. Stay near a tram line to avoid taxi costs
3. Wear a full costume for free standing entry
4. Eat lunch at local markets instead of restaurants
5. Visit the free Carnival Village daily
6. Use public transport (day passes offer good value)
7. Attend free events: Opening, Carnavalina, Lou Queernaval, Closing

Conclusion: Why Nice Carnival 2026 Should Be on Your Bucket List

The Nice Carnival 2026 represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness history. For the first time in over 200 years, this legendary festival celebrates “Vive la Reine!” — honoring the extraordinary women who shaped our world.

From February 11 to March 1, 2026, the French Riviera transforms into a spectacular stage of color, music, and celebration. With 19 days of festivities, 17 massive floats, over 100,000 flowers thrown during Batailles de Fleurs, and 1 million+ visitors, this is truly one of the world’s greatest festivals.

What makes 2026 special:

• First Queen-themed carnival in over 200 years
• 152nd edition of an event dating back to 1294
• Record attendance expected following 2025’s 400,000 visitors
• Historic feminist theme honoring Marie Curie, Simone Veil, Joséphine Baker, and more

Key takeaways:

• Dates: February 11 – March 1, 2026
• Theme: “Vive la Reine!” (Long Live the Queen!)
• Tickets: €5-€28 depending on event and seating
• Free entry: Available with full costume (standing areas)
• Book early: Tickets and hotels sell out quickly

Whether you’re drawn by the illuminated night parades, the fragrant Flower Battles, the free Lou Queernaval, or the spectacular closing fireworks, the Nice Carnival 2026 promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Don’t miss this historic celebration on the French Riviera!

For official information, schedules, and ticket purchases, visit the Nice Carnival Official Website and Explore Nice Côte d’Azur Tourism.

Share your Nice Carnival experience using #NiceCarnaval and #ILOVENICE on social media!