“Festin des Mai”: The 2025 Edition Arrives in Nice
Thursday, May 1st, 2025, the Gardens of the Arènes de Cimiez will once again burst into life with vibrant colors, music, and aromas as the beloved Festin des Mai returns. This iconic spring festival celebrates the traditional folk culture of Nice and will continue every Sunday throughout May.
The opening day promises a joyful experience with folk shows, live music, local cuisine, and activities for all ages.
🎭 A Celebration with Ancient Roots
The Festin des Mai traces back to Roman times when the renewal of nature was celebrated by planting a decorated pine tree – a symbol of rebirth and prosperity. Today, the heart of the celebration remains the “vira lou mai”, the traditional dance around the floral-decked tree.
🎉 Entertainment for Everyone
With traditional games like pilou and vitou, creative workshops, children’s activities, and the much-awaited May Queen election, this is a festive occasion for both locals and visitors to rediscover the cultural soul of Nice.
📅 Schedule – Thursday, May 1st, 2025
📍 Gardens of the Arènes de Cimiez
🕙 10 AM to 7 PM – Food stalls, crafts, and entertainment
🎶 Oliveraie Stage
-
11:00 AM – Traditional dances with Nice la Belle
-
12:00 PM – Fanfare L’Écho de la Chaumière
-
1:00 PM – Bal musette with the Thierry Noll Trio
-
2:30 PM – Election of the May Queen
-
4:00 PM – Folk dances with La Ciamada Nissarda
-
5:00 PM – Traditional balèti with Lu Barbalucou
🎭 Petite Stage (For families & children)
-
2:00 PM – Puppet show “The Animals of the Fables” – Kid’am Company
-
2:45 PM – Fanfare L’Écho de la Chaumière
-
3:00 PM – Theatre show “Little Red Riding Hood Sees Red” – Bal Arts Légers
-
3:45 PM – Fanfare L’Écho de la Chaumière
-
4:00 PM – Storytelling “Tales of Old Nice” – Compagnie de la Hulotte
🌿 In the Gardens
🕚 11 AM to 5 PM – Creative workshops, face painting, wooden games, local associations, and food stands.
☔ In case of bad weather, the event will be postponed to Saturday, May 3rd, with the same schedule.
