Nice Carnival at a glance
Nice Carnival is the big winter event on the French Riviera. Every year it has a theme and a king, or queen, whose giant figure presides over Place Masséna. The 2026 edition was the 152nd. For 2027, the theme is "Vive l'Amour" (Long live love).
For almost three weeks, from 9 to 28 February 2027, the city lives to the rhythm of the parades: giant floats, big papier-mâché heads, and more than a thousand musicians and dancers.
The two big shows
The illuminated carnival corsos
These are the night parades, on Place Masséna. The floats, some up to 20 metres tall, are lit up in every colour, and the crowd is swept into an open-air concert atmosphere. It is the signature show.
The flower battles
They take place by day, on the Promenade des Anglais, facing the sea. Flower-covered floats move slowly along and the people on board throw thousands of flowers to the crowd: more than 100,000 in a single edition.
The final night
The Carnival ends with the burning of the king (or queen) on the Quai des États-Unis, followed by fireworks over the Baie des Anges. The crowd traditionally sings "Nissa La Bella", Nice's anthem.
Tickets and prices
Parades are ticketed, with two options:
- Seated stands: the best view, booked in advance. In 2026, allow 23 to 28 euros for an adult, depending on the location.
- Standing areas: livelier and cheaper. In 2026, 7 to 14 euros for an adult.
In 2026, entry to the standing areas of the illuminated corsos was free for people in full costume, subject to space. 2027 prices had not yet been published when this guide was written: check the official website, nicecarnaval.com.
Practical tips
- Book your hotel early: several months ahead for parade weekends.
- Arrive early: security checks create queues, especially on the final night. Allow an hour, two for the closing show.
- Travel light: large bags and glass bottles are banned in the show areas.
- Take the train: Nice-Ville station is about a 15-minute walk from Place Masséna, and extra regional trains run on corso nights.
- Mind the tram: in 2026, during parades, some tram line 1 stops near Place Masséna close. Get off at Jean-Médecin.
- Enjoy the rest of the city: in February Nice is calm and bright. It is the perfect time for Old Nice and the Promenade des Anglais.
Where to stay during the Carnival
To enjoy the Carnival on foot, stay near Place Masséna (night parades) or on the Promenade des Anglais (flower battles).
Le Negresco
Front-row seats for the flower battles, which parade along the Promenade right outside.
Hôtel West End
On the daytime parade route, a few minutes' walk from Place Masséna.
Hôtel La Pérouse
At the foot of Castle Hill, close to where the Carnival king or queen is burned on the final night.
Hotels around Place Masséna
The heart of the illuminated corsos: walking back after the night parade is a real comfort.
Affiliate links: if you book, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
To compare every neighbourhood, read our guide to where to stay in Nice.
Book an activity
The best-rated tours and trips, bookable online, most with free cancellation.
Old Nice and port food tour
Socca, pissaladière, cheese and local wine: a dozen tastings with a local guide.
Èze, Monaco and Monte-Carlo half-day tour
The hilltop village of Èze, the Rock of Monaco and the Monte-Carlo casino, with no car or parking to worry about.
Guided walking tours
Old Nice, Castle Hill and the centre with a guide who brings the city to life.
Affiliate links: if you book, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
When is Nice Carnival 2027?
Nice Carnival 2027 runs from 9 to 28 February 2027, on the theme "Vive l'Amour". The detailed day-by-day programme is published on the official website, nicecarnaval.com.
Is Nice Carnival free?
The main parades are ticketed, with seated stands or standing areas. In 2026 a seat cost 23 to 28 euros for an adult and a standing area 7 to 14 euros. Entry to the standing areas of the corsos was free for people in full costume. 2027 prices will be announced by the organisers.
What is the difference between a corso and a flower battle?
The illuminated carnival corso is a night parade with giant lit-up floats and big papier-mâché heads on Place Masséna. The flower battle takes place by day on the Promenade des Anglais: flower-covered floats parade and the people on board throw flowers to the crowd.
Where should I stay for Nice Carnival?
Around Place Masséna for the night parades, or on the Promenade des Anglais for the flower battles. Book several months ahead: central hotels fill up fast. If everything is full, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Antibes and Menton are linked to Nice by regional train.
