From February 11 to March 1, 2026, the Nice Carnival , France's leading international carnival and the largest winter event on the French Riviera, returns with an ambitious edition. This year, the city celebrates femininity with a powerful and symbolic theme: "Long Live the Queen!" After decades of male dominance, it's time for a vibrant tribute to the women who have left their mark on history, fiction, and the collective imagination.

The Nice Carnival, an unmissable international tradition

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

A program rich in emotions and entertainment

The festivities will begin on February 11th with the official opening of the carnival, marked by 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 will light up to the rhythm of monumental floats and troupes of artists, 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 magical atmosphere until the closing parade on February 28th. The traditional flower battles, held every Wednesday and Saturday, punctuate the program, spreading colors, scents, and good cheer through the streets of Nice.

Other iconic events will enrich this 2026 edition, such as the famous waiters' race, the joyful Frenchy Carnival, and the highly anticipated Lou Queernaval, a symbol of diversity and freedom. The festivities will conclude on the Quai des États-Unis with the closing ceremonies and the spectacular Grand Bain du Carnaval (Carnival Grand Swim), a highlight and emblematic moment overlooking the Mediterranean.

Staying at the West End Hotel during Carnival

Experiencing the Nice Carnival from the Hotel 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 tranquility.

After the excitement of the parades and shows, the Hotel West End invites you to relax in a Belle Époque atmosphere, overlooking the sea. Staying here during the 2026 Nice Carnival is a unique experience blending culture, festivities, and the Niçois art of living for an unforgettable memory on the French Riviera.