Celebrate the vibrant French Riviera at the Nice Carnival

Spring is the season of carnivals. From Europe and Northeast Asia to the Southern Hemisphere, a variety of themed events showcase festive scenes that are nothing short of spectacular—glorious, grand, artistic, quirky, unrestrained, and avant-garde. In Nice on the French Riviera, a carnival centered around the dazzling "light parade" is held every February and March, offering spectacular performances that let you experience the exuberant spirit unique to southern France.

The Nice Carnival is considered France’s largest festival. Its origins stem from the desire to indulge in one final celebration before the solemn period of Lent. The 2010 Nice Carnival will mark its 126th edition, taking place from February 12 to February 28. This year’s theme, “King of the Blue Planet (Roi de la Planète Bleue),” focuses on important issues such as the Earth and the environment, using the pure, satirical spirit of the carnival to humorously highlight humanity’s bad habits.

Throughout the carnival, there are different celebrations each day, including parades, floats, light displays, concerts, and fireworks. The highlight of the program is the “float parade” along the Promenade des Anglais. This procession combines flowers, beauties, music, and acrobatic performances, with participating float teams coming from all over the world. The handsome men and beautiful women atop the floats toss flowers and greenery to the spectators along the route. The bands or performers following the floats also win loud applause with their unusual costumes, passionate dances, and dazzling acrobatic acts.

 

The Nice Carnival isn’t just lively during the day—the festive spirit continues into the night. The must-see nighttime event is the “light parade,” where various performance groups and themed floats appear one after another to the rhythm of music and flashing lights. The final day of the event concludes perfectly with the dramatic burning of the Carnival King puppet.

The carnival lasts nearly two weeks. If you want to experience flowers, passionate music, beautiful floats, and the environmental-themed performances of the “King of the Blue Planet,” head to France to join this annual extravaganza.

2010 Nice Carnival
Date: February 12 to February 28, 2010
Website: http://www.nicecarnival.com

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Read more: The dazzling float parade (provided by Tripass Attraction Home)