From 11 February to 1 March 2026, the Nice Carnival—the leading international carnival in France and the largest winter event on the French Riviera—returns with an ambitious new edition. This year, the city celebrates femininity with a powerful and symbolic theme: “Long Live the Queen!” After decades of male reign, the spotlight turns to a vibrant tribute to the women who have shaped history, fiction, and the collective imagination.

The Nice Carnival: an unmissable international tradition

A flagship winter event on the French Riviera, the Nice Carnival attracts visitors from all over the world every year. A true showcase of Nice’s artistic expertise, it blends imagination with local traditions in an exceptional setting between the sea and palm trees. Place Masséna, located just a few minutes’ walk from the Hôtel West End, becomes the beating heart of the festivities, hosting parades, entertainment, and shows throughout the event.

A programme full of excitement and spectacular shows

The festivities will kick off on 11 February with the official opening of the carnival, featuring the grand Charivari, the prestigious Bal Veglione at the Nice Opera House, the Carnavalina, and the first illuminated parade. From the very first evenings, Nice comes alive with monumental floats and performing troupes, offering a magical nighttime spectacle.

Throughout the carnival, the nighttime carnival parades take place every Tuesday and Saturday, immersing the city in a festive and enchanting atmosphere until the closing parade on 28 February. The traditional flower battles, held every Wednesday and Saturday, will punctuate the programme, spreading colour, fragrance, and good cheer through the streets of Nice.

Other iconic events will enhance this 2026 edition, such as the famous waiters’ race, the joyful Carnaval des Frenchy, and the much-anticipated Lou Queernaval, a symbol of diversity and freedom. The celebrations will conclude on the Quai des États-Unis with the closing ceremonies and the spectacular Grand Carnival Dip, a highlight of the event facing the Mediterranean.

Staying at the Hôtel West End during the Carnival

Experiencing the Nice Carnival from the Hôtel West End means choosing a prime location at the heart of the event, while enjoying the comfort and refinement of an iconic hotel on the Promenade des Anglais. Just minutes from Place Masséna and the main parade routes, the hotel offers ideal access to the festivities without compromising on peace and quiet.

After the excitement of the parades and shows, the Hôtel West End invites guests to relax in a Belle Époque atmosphere overlooking the sea. Staying here during the Nice Carnival 2026 promises a unique experience combining culture, celebration, and the Niçoise art of living—for unforgettable memories on the French Riviera.