February 21, 2011

Nice Carnival 2011 February 18: First flower parade



It was on the seafront, along Promenade des Anglais, that the first Bataille de Fleurs (Flower Parade) was held in 1876. Soon, the timid exchanges of bouquets of flowers between the rich winter visitors' decorated carriages developed into a prestigious show, now an integral part of Carnival.


On each float, costumed models throw 80 to 100.000 flowers to an enthusiastic crowd:


gladioli, tokyos, mimosas, gerberas, daisies, roses, carnations...


These "battles" are staged on the same theme as the Carnival floats. The costumes are designed in a workshop entirely dedicated to their creation.They are unique creations as for theatre performances.

This event is one of its kind in the world and features among the most famous of the French Riviera. Nice exportes its know-how in the fields of elegance, beauty and the charm of these flower parades.


Click on Nice Carnival Programme to read the full 2 weeks programme.

1 comment: