Every year, the town of Menton, located on the beautiful French Riviera, welcomes thousands of visitors to celebrate one of the most fascinating and colorful events in the European calendar: the Fête du Citron, the Lemon Festival. The 2025 edition promises to be one of the most spectacular yet, offering a true immersion into the world of citrus fruits, with a particular focus on the wonders of the local produce and its cultural tradition, which has deep historical roots.
The Fête du Citron has a long history dating back to 1934, when it was established to promote the cultivation of lemons, one of the symbolic products of Menton. Over the years, the event has grown in size and importance, becoming an international festival that attracts tourists from all over the world. During its 20 days of celebration, the town transforms into an explosion of vibrant colors, intense fragrances, and artworks made from citrus fruits, especially lemons and oranges.
The 2025 edition will have the central theme of “Journey(s) Among the Stars.”
One of the main attractions of the festival is the famous carriage parades, held every weekend. These processions, full of spectacular carriages decorated with hundreds of tons of lemons and oranges, are a must-see for anyone attending the event. Every year, local and international artists compete to create the most extraordinary works of art, which are then displayed in the public gardens of Menton, transforming the town into a vast open-air gallery.
In addition to the parades and exhibitions, the Fête du Citron offers a series of side activities ranging from workshops for children, where the little ones can learn how to decorate their own lemons, to tastings of typical dishes and desserts made with lemons, such as the famous Menton lemon cake. Throughout the festival, there will also be conferences and gastronomic events focusing on the use of this citrus fruit in Mediterranean and international cuisine.
Concerts and musical performances will also animate the town’s squares, creating a unique festive and communal atmosphere. Nature lovers, on the other hand, can take guided tours of the town’s gardens, where they will learn about lemon cultivation techniques and the history of the fruit’s connection to Menton.
The 2025 edition will also focus on sustainability. Decorations will be made with eco-friendly materials, and initiatives will be promoted to raise awareness among participants about recycling and environmental conservation. Additionally, the festival will encourage the use of local and organic products, in line with the growing focus on sustainability in the region.
Here is the complete program: programma – Fête du citron®
The Fête du Citron 2025 promises to be an extraordinary edition, captivating with its beauty and magic, while also celebrating tradition, culture, and the love for nature that have always distinguished Menton. With a perfect blend of art, gastronomy, and entertainment, the Menton Lemon Festival is undoubtedly an event not to be missed for anyone looking to experience something unique along the French Riviera.