The Best Events of the Weekend of 28 February and 1 March 2026 on the French Riviera

French Riviera: a winter weekend of art, music, dance and traditions

Spending a winter weekend on the French Riviera means discovering a region that, far from the summer buzz, reveals its most authentic side. While the sea enjoys a mild and luminous climate, the Alpine hinterland is dusted with snow, creating a striking contrast that turns the area into a vast open-air stage. Art, music, dance, popular traditions and major events coexist in perfect harmony, offering diverse yet complementary experiences.

The weekend of Saturday 28 February and Sunday 1 March 2026 presents a rich mosaic of events linking coast and mountains, celebration and reflection, entertainment and discovery.

Saturday, 28 February 2026

Monaco

The weekend begins in the Principality with a full and varied programme. The Atelier de Magie invites visitors of all ages to be amazed by the world of illusion, while Rando SPI combines physical activity with a spirit of sharing. As evening falls, the atmosphere heats up with Fiesta Latina à Monaco by Hamidine, transforming Monaco into a vibrant meeting point for lovers of Latin rhythms.

Menton

In Menton, winter is synonymous with colour and fragrance thanks to the famous The Lemon Festival®, the city’s flagship event. Alongside the citrus installations, the cultural programme includes the exhibition The Travels of Lisbeth – Hallucinations at the Bastion and the comedy and music show Christelle Chollet – “20 ans déjà”, bringing humour and energy to the stage.

Nice

Nice comes alive with one of its most iconic celebrations: the Carnaval de Nice 2026 – “Vive la Reine”, a spectacular display of floats, costumes and music. At Tour Bellanda, Nissa Briqua highlights local traditions, while the Opéra Nice Côte d’Azur offers a refined musical encounter with Wagner and Rossini, delighting opera enthusiasts.

Antibes

In Antibes, the day unfolds through civic engagement, sport and entertainment. The Repair Café participatory workshop promotes sustainability and shared skills, while the Top 12 Men’s Gymnastics competition showcases top-level sport. The Nuit du Hand – winter edition rounds off the programme with a dynamic and festive sporting event.

Cannes

Cannes confirms its playful and cultural spirit with the Festival International des Jeux, a must for board game and role-playing fans. In the evening, the Karaoké Soirée offers light-hearted fun, while the exhibition The Origins of Cannes – Fishing and Other Treasures of the Sea invites visitors to rediscover the city’s deep connection with the sea.

Hinterland and mountains

Saturday is also lively inland:

• in Vence, the Carnaval Provençal celebrates local traditions;

• in Isola, the Isola Village Carnival brings festive cheer to the heart of the Alps;

• in Auron, the Carnaval des Neiges blends Alpine scenery with carnival spirit.

Sunday, 1 March 2026

Cap-d’Ail

Sunday opens with a quieter yet equally engaging atmosphere thanks to the 25th Philatelic Fair, an event for collectors and the curious alike, providing a thoughtful and cultural way to conclude the weekend.

A weekend that tells the story of the French Riviera

This winter weekend paints the picture of a surprising and multifaceted French Riviera, where sea and mountains, art and tradition, spectacle and contemplation coexist in perfect balance. Each destination offers a distinct yet complementary experience, encouraging visitors to explore the region with curiosity and a spirit of discovery.

Even in winter, the French Riviera proves itself to be a destination that welcomes, inspires and amazes, thanks to its extraordinary cultural, human and natural richness.