
Menton: A Winter Weekend Between Culture, Flavors, and Christmas Magic
Spending a winter weekend in Menton is an immersive experience for the senses, a journey into an elegant and charming atmosphere where the Mediterranean allure blends with local traditions, culture, and a range of events for all ages. The city, which remains vibrant during the colder season, comes alive with lights, colors, and fragrances, offering visitors a unique beauty to discover through the historic center, seafront, and the town squares.
Menton’s event calendar is rich and varied, with activities taking place throughout the winter and spring months, making the city an ideal destination for a visit even during the low season. If you decide to spend your weekend in Menton, here are some of the most fascinating experiences you shouldn’t miss.
Events in January 2026: A Weekend Full of Activities
Saturday, January 24, 2026 is a day packed with cultural events. We start with an unmissable experience for music lovers: the Casino Barrière artistic season offers a dinner and concert dedicated to blues legends. This event, held at the Casino Barrière in Menton, is the perfect opportunity to combine fine dining with the magic of live music.
The Great Blues Takes Center Stage at Casino Barrière Menton
On January 24, another captivating event will take place at the Bibliothèque L’Odyssée, with the Nights of Reading, an opportunity for literature lovers to immerse themselves in an intimate and engaging atmosphere.
If you’re interested in science and astronomy, you can’t miss the conference at Val Rahmeh on Sunday, January 25, titled “Carbon and its diamonds in space and the solar system.” The event will take place in the beautiful Jardin Botanique du Val Rahmeh, a place worth visiting for its stunning exotic gardens.
January 25 is also the day of the Journées d’expertises gratuites, held at the Royal Westminster in Menton, where participants can benefit from free consultations on various topics.
On Monday, January 26, the event calendar will conclude with a grand concert by the Violons de Prague, performing at the Basilique Saint-Michel, an unmissable opportunity for classical music enthusiasts.
Classical Music Concert in Menton: I Violons de Prague at the Basilica of Saint-Michel
Winter Festivals and Celebrations
In addition to the weekend events, Menton also hosts two traditional celebrations that enrich its winter season. The Fête Foraine, which runs until February 8, 2026, at the Mail du Bastion, is a festival loved especially by families and children. With its games, attractions, and food stalls, it brings a touch of joy and lightheartedness to the city, creating a festive and engaging atmosphere.
Another must-see event is the 92nd Cedrat Festival® – Lemon Walk, which celebrates the lemon, Menton’s signature fruit, and the Riviera. Until March 1, 2026, visitors can admire spectacular lemon-themed installations and take part in guided walks and cultural initiatives in various parts of the city. Rooted in tradition, this festival offers a unique opportunity to discover Menton in all its beauty and originality.
Cultural Events and Exhibitions Not to Miss
Menton is also a cultural hub offering a wealth of opportunities for those looking to explore its history and artistic traditions. For those passionate about art and botany, the guided tours of the Jardin Fontana Rosa, until April 30, 2026, are a chance to discover the famous garden of novelists, an enchanting place that inspired many writers. Additionally, the Musée du Bastion Jean Cocteau will host an exhibition dedicated to the great French artist and his friends, with self-portraits on display, until June 8, 2026.
The Galerie du Miramar, open until March 31, 2026, hosts the exhibition “The Colors of Foliage”, a tribute to the Riviera’s autumn, while the Musée de Préhistoire régionale offers, until June 26, 2026, the exhibition “From One Mantle to Another”, exploring the history of the region and its ancient inhabitants.
An Unforgettable Experience
Strolling through the streets of Menton during the winter means being enchanted by its elegance, lively traditions, and natural beauty that define the city. With its welcoming spirit and poetic atmosphere, the Pearl of France transforms a simple winter weekend into an unforgettable experience filled with culture, flavors, and small daily wonders.
Menton is a destination that always surprises and fascinates, even when the weather turns colder. With its events, exhibitions, and historical heritage, it’s the perfect place for a winter getaway filled with beauty and discovery.