The main winter event on the Riviera is one of the largest carnivals in the world, offering a programme of unforgettable entertainment … from 12th to 28th February 2010.
The carnival processions, comprising 20 floats telling the story of the “Blue Planet” 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 …
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!
Le Carnival Parade is made up of some twenty floats designed on the year's theme and other figurines, including 30 in traditional papier mache in a colourful parade with dazzling colours, with the participation of street theatre and music groups from all over the world. In the evening all the floats are illuminated and the evening parades light up the heart of Nice.
Each Carnival represents an original shortlived production. Being a Carnavalier is not a profession, but a passion or a vocation. The large workshop where these craftsmen work, called the "Maison du Carnaval" is transformed into a magical setting for several months.
Even if new procedures, techniques and materials have paved the way for the mechanisation, articulation and modernisation of elements, the basis for float and big head construction has remained identical to its origins.
FLOWER PARADE
It was on the seafront, along Promenade des Anglais, that the first Flower Parade (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.
Today,this event promotes the quality and large variety of Riviera flowers as some 90% of flowers used are produced locally. 20 flower covered floats parade along the promenade des Anglais between the Théâtre de Verdure and the Hotel Negresco.
The development and conception of the floats is a long and meticulous task which nonetheless has to be carried out within a very short lapse of time.
PARADE OF LIGHTS
The Place Massena, emblematic Carnival venue, has recovered the tradition of Carnival Parades, the departure point for a loop around the Albert 1er gardens. On the square, visual Entertainment is broadcast on giant screens. For evening évents, the floats are illuminated and the parades light up the heart of Nice.
