What’s on in Cote d Azur

Cannes Fireworks Festival

TBC 2024

Baie de Cannes

Attracting some of the best pyrotechnicians in the world, the Festival of Pyrotechnic Art in Cannes sees fireworks masters compete under their national flags on about seven nights, turning the skies of the picturesque town into an artistic canvas. Apart from the overall prize awarded by the panel of judges, there is a 'public prize' voted on by spectators. Each fireworks display is a minimum 25-minutes long and all are accompanied by music. The fireworks are launched from three barges in the Bay of Cannes and spectators gather at vantage points all over the town to watch the breathtaking displays. For a full programme check the official website listed below.

Website www.festival-pyrotechnique-cannes.com/en

Cannes Film Festival

14 -— 25 May 2024

Cannes

The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most renowned film festivals in the world. Each year a selection of the finest filmmakers from the international scene judge entries from across the globe. Hollywood often chooses to screen blockbuster films on opening night and the small town on the Cote d'Azur hosts the biggest celebrities and their famous after-parties. The prestigious festival is attended by industry professionals and the media in droves. However, the public are able to view films in the competition on large open-air screens.

Although it is incredibly exciting to be in Cannes during the festival visitors should be aware that the glamorous little town becomes absolutely packed with people during this period. Those coming in the hope of spotting celebrities and to enjoy the stylish chaos will not be disappointed. However, those journeying to Cannes to enjoy the beaches and the other attractions of the region should avoid the festival, which makes everything a bit crowded.

Website www.festival-cannes.fr

Nice Carnival

15 — 23 February 2024

The main winter event on the French Riviera and one of the major carnivals in the world, the Nice Carnival brings the city to life with a series of flower parades, float processions, fireworks and concerts every year. The float procession is one of the main events and features 18 floats and entertainment provided by more than 1,000 musicians and dancers from around the world. Every year a festival theme is declared.

Anything goes during Carnival, which is all about the joys of difference and friendship between different nations. The flower parades, often called flower wars, are a highlight of the festival. They are battles between competing floats bedecked in beautiful floral arrangements, many samples of which are thrown into the crowds. The carnival is meant to brighten up the winter months and it does so beautifully. Those travelling in France during winter have an added incentive to visit the lovely city of Nice.

Website www.nicecarnaval.com

Cote d Azur