Nice Newsletter - February 2026

February in Nice brings a distinct shift in energy. While much of Europe remains deep in winter, the Côte d'Azur often enjoys crisp, bright days that hint at the coming spring. The city begins to wake up from its quiet January lull, preparing for its most significant cultural event of the year. The atmosphere shifts from peaceful seaside walks to a vibrant, city-wide celebration as the stands go up around Place Masséna and the Promenade des Anglais.

The festivities begin even before the official opening with the Grand Charivari on February 7. This is a more local, informal gathering that serves as a warm-up to the main event. It is a great opportunity to experience the community spirit of Nice without the ticketed crowds of the main parades. You can expect music, dance performances, and the distribution of traditional ganses—fried diamond-shaped pastries dusted with sugar that are a seasonal staple here. Admission is free, making it an accessible introduction to the local carnival traditions.

The main spectacle, the Nice Carnival 2026, officially runs from February 11, centering on the theme "Long Live the Queen!" This year, the floats and performances will explore the concept of femininity through the specific lens of carnival satire and artistry. On February 14 at 9 pm, the Opening Illuminated Parade will light up the city center. Unlike daytime events, this parade focuses on light displays and animatronics that transform the Place Masséna into a glowing theater. It is a visually striking experience, though it can get quite crowded, so arriving with plenty of time to find your designated entrance is advisable.

For a different side of the celebration, the traditional Flower Battles begin on February 18. This event dates back to the 19th century and is unique to Nice. Costumed performers on floats throw thousands of locally grown flowers—often mimosas, lilies, and daisies—to the spectators. It is less about satire and more about showcasing the region’s floral heritage. If you need a break from the parades, the Carnival Village opens daily starting February 13. It is a free-access zone featuring food stalls with local specialties and workshops where you can see how carnival souvenirs are made.

Beyond the confetti and crowds, the city’s permanent beauty remains. The historic architecture and seaside views offer a calm counterpoint to the festival energy. If you would like to get your bearings and learn about the history of the city before diving into the festivities, we recommend joining our Welcome to Nice the Beautiful! Old Town & Promenade Tour.

Date	Event	Category
February 13 - March 1	Carnival Village Explore this lively free venue open daily from 11 am to 6 pm (until 10 pm on Thursdays, February 19 and 26). Create your own carnival souvenirs in workshops, enjoy entertainment and sideshows, and discover a food court with local specialties.	📅 Other	More details →
February 22	Daytime Carnival Parade Bring your family to this family-friendly parade at 2:30 pm at Place Masséna, ideal for children to enjoy the floats, performers, and carnival atmosphere.	📅 Other	More details →
February 7	Grand Charivari - Carnival Opening Join the festive gathering marking the start of Nice Carnival with DJ sets, dance performances, music, and distribution of traditional ganses. Free admission, no registration required.	🎪 Festival	More details →
February 11 - March 1	Nice Carnival 2026 Experience the vibrant celebration of femininity with the theme 'Long Live the Queen!' Join illuminated parades, flower battles, costumed performers, and spectacular floats transforming Place Masséna into a dazzling spectacle of colors and emotions.	🎪 Festival	More details →
February 11 - March 1	Nice Carnival (Carnaval de Nice) One of the Riviera's most famous winter events, featuring spectacular parades, giant floats, and traditional flower battles. The 2026 theme is "Long live the Queen!"	🎪 Festival	More details →
February 14	Nice Carnival Opening: La Carnavalina The opening day of the 2026 Nice Carnival featuring public entertainment and parades throughout the city.	🎪 Festival	More details →
February 14	Opening Illuminated Parade Witness the grand spectacle at Place Masséna at 9 pm as illuminated floats parade through the streets with costumed performers and light displays celebrating the carnival theme.	🎪 Festival	More details →
February 18	Flower Battles Experience this iconic Carnival spectacle with floral floats, costumed performers, and showers of flowers at 2:30 pm. Additional flower battles occur on February 21, 25, and 28.	🎪 Festival	More details →
February 18	Nice Carnival: Flower Battle (Bataille de Fleurs) A traditional parade where floats decorated with floral arrangements proceed through the streets.	🎪 Festival	More details →