
French Riviera: A Winter Weekend of Art, Music, Dance, and Traditions
The first weekend of 2026 on the French Riviera promises to be filled with a wide range of events, offering everything from art to music, dance to winter sports, and local traditions to gastronomic experiences. Between coastal cities, charming inland villages, and mountain resorts, every visitor can find activities suited to their interests, whether they want to immerse themselves in culture or enjoy moments of fun and relaxation.
The weekend starts with a visit to the 54th edition of the Salon des Artistes Antibois at the Salon des Artistes Antibois, where local artists showcase their latest works. If you’re a music lover, don’t miss Charlie Winston’s concert at Anthéa Theatre in Antibes, which promises a mix of pop and soul with a personal twist. Also in Antibes, the exhibition “Babiole d’Art” at Casemate 19 explores contemporary art with works from various artists.
In Cannes, the Carlton Fest livens up the streets and public spaces with a variety of cultural and musical events, creating a vibrant, international atmosphere. For opera lovers, Philippe Torreton will present “Le Mariage de Figaro” at La Folle Journée, offering an engaging new take on Mozart’s famous opera.
In Menton, the Jardin Botanique du Val Rahmeh is a must-see for nature lovers, with its beautiful collection of exotic and local plants, open until the end of February. Also, the Nights of Reading at Bibliothèque L’Odyssée provides an opportunity to discover stories and novels set in faraway places, guided by expert readers.
In Nice, start your day with the exhibition SUMŌ – Absolute Balance at the Musée des Arts Asiatiques, exploring balance and harmony through Japanese sumo, a discipline symbolizing both physical and spiritual confrontation. For an exciting evening, head to Casino Barrière Le Ruhl for a Magic Night event full of illusion and entertainment. If you’re in the mood for humor, Tremplin d’humour at La Maioun Dou Rai will provide some laughs and lighthearted fun.
On Saturday 24 January, Monaco hosts the FIGHT AIDS CUP at the Stade Louis II, combining sports and charity to raise funds for the fight against HIV/AIDS. Later, the Rallye Monte-Carlo 2026 continues to thrill motorsport enthusiasts at the Port Hercule, where spectators can enjoy the action and check out the cars up close. Also, the Requiem by Mozart will be performed at Bd Louis II, offering an unforgettable classical music experience.
In the mountains, Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée hosts the Tournoi de Contrée, a traditional card game tournament. Also, Isola 2000 is the site of the European Snowboardcross Cup on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 January, offering winter sports excitement for fans of all ages. In Breil-sur-Roya, the 10th edition of the Night of Reading focuses on “Cities and Countryside” and takes place at the Bibliothèque de Breil-Sur-Roya, while La Brigue offers a Tarantella Workshop at the Foyer Rurale, bringing traditional Italian dance to life.
This winter weekend on the French Riviera confirms the region’s reputation as a destination that combines art, music, dance, sports, and local traditions. Whether you are strolling through charming towns, enjoying exhibitions, watching performances, or engaging in family-friendly activities, every visitor can find their ideal experience and enjoy the vibrancy and variety of the French Riviera.