Nice France Carnival 2011 programme February 18th - March 8th

One of the previous carnival parades

The main winter event on the Riviera is one of the largest carnivals in the world, offering a programme of unforgettable entertainment … from February 18th to March 8th 2011.

The Theme: Roi de la Méditerranée (King of the Mediterranean)

The carnival processions, comprising 20 floats telling the story of the “Mediterranean” work their way up to a crescendo of gigantic decorations on the Place Masséna. These giant, colourful parades take place day and night, with entertainment provided by over 1,000 musicians and dancers from across the world.


In a unique setting, on the Promenade des Anglais, the elegant “flower battles” are part of the carnival not to be missed. On floats decorated with the most stunning floral compositions, extravagantly dressed characters throw out mimosas, gerberas, and lilies into the public …

One of the previous Parades of Lights

For over 15 days, the city hums to the rhythm of this genuine, fairy-tale event … get a passport for the celebration and let the magic do its work … come and forget the dullness of winter and take in the sun on the French Riviera!

2011 Programme: for more information and tickets visit the official website of Nice Carnaval.

Friday 18th February
8:30pm Opening festivities
Saturday 19th February
2:30pm Flower Parade
9:00pm Parade of Lights
Sunday 20th February
2:30pm Carnival Parade
Tuesday 22nd February
2:30pm Carnival Parade
Wednesday 23rd February
2:30pm Flower Parade
Saturday 26th February
2:30pm Flower Parade
9:00pm Parade of Lights
Sunday 27th February
2:30pm Carnival Parade
Tuesday 1st March
2:30pm Carnival Parade
Wednesday 2nd March
2:30pm Flower Parade
Saturday 5th March
2:30pm Flower Parade
9:00pm Parade of Lights
Sunday 6th March
2:30pm Carnival Parade
Tuesday 8th March
2:30pm Carnival Parade
8:30pm Closing festivities
9:30pm Incineration and firework display

When you have time, this time of year is also very nice to explore the region by bus. A single trip within 74 minutes, also to Cannes and Monaco, only costs 1 euro. The busstops to go to Monaco, Saint Jean, etc will be changed due to reorganisation of the area of the former busstation. You can find the new busstops on page 14 and 15 of the 3rd edition of Nice Expression.