The official programme also includes several regular activities that can easily be incorporated into a one- or two-day itinerary. Here is what to do in Menton during the weekend of September 26 and 27, 2026.

Saturday, September 26: the Fête de la Saint-Michel takes over Menton

The main event of the weekend is the Fête de la Saint-Michel, taking place on Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27, 2026. The celebration honours Saint Michael, the patron saint of Menton, and focuses on local traditions, agriculture and conviviality. The main activities take place around Esplanade du Bastion, Mail du Bastion and Esplanade Francis Palmero.

On both days, from 10 am to 6 pm, Esplanade du Bastion hosts a market featuring local producers, together with a farm-animal area – including cows, pigs, sheep and donkeys – and free activities for children focusing on agriculture and traditional crafts. The market of local producers and artisans takes place on both Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September.

Saturday continues with the guinguette evening, scheduled from 6 pm to 10 pm at Mail du Bastion. Food trucks, music and entertainment create a relaxed atmosphere, making this a pleasant way to enjoy dinner outdoors and spend the evening with friends and family. Admission to the festival is free, while some activities, including Sunday’s official lunch, require payment.

Gardens and heritage: guided tours on Saturday

For visitors who want to combine the celebrations with Menton’s famous gardens, Saturday, September 26 at 10 am is the opportunity to join a guided tour of Jardin Maria Serena, at 21 promenade Reine Astrid. The tour runs from 10 to 11:30 am and introduces visitors to one of the city’s most scenic gardens, known for its palms, cycads, exotic plants and exceptional microclimate between the sea and mountains. Tickets cost €10 for adults and €7 for children aged 6 to 18. Advance booking is compulsory and payment cannot be made directly on site.

In the afternoon, at 3 pm, the focus shifts to Visite guidée : Le jardin Serre de la Madone, at Jardin Serre de la Madone, 74 route du Val de Gorbio. The tour runs from 3 to 4:30 pm and explores a botanical garden covering approximately 1.5 hectares, classified as a Jardin Remarquable. Created in 1924 by landscape designer Lawrence Johnston, the garden features Mediterranean, subtropical and exotic species and is particularly interesting for anyone passionate about botany and landscape architecture. Tickets cost €15 for adults and €11 for children aged 6 to 18.

Also on Saturday, September 26 at 10 am, visitors can join Les ruelles de l’histoire, a guided walking tour through Menton’s historic centre. Starting near the Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange, the route explores the city’s old streets while telling the story of its Genoese influence, Belle Époque heritage, local traditions and important historical figures. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, from 10 to 11:30 am, and costs €8, with a reduced price of €4 for teenagers aged 14 to 18. The route is not wheelchair accessible.

Jean Cocteau at the heart of the weekend

The weekend of September 26 and 27 also offers several opportunities to discover the world of Jean Cocteau, one of the artists most closely associated with Menton’s cultural history.

At the Musée Jean Cocteau – Le Bastion, Quai Napoléon III, visitors can see the exhibition Le Château de la Bête, organised to mark the 80th anniversary of the film La Belle et la Bête. The exhibition brings together works, posters, programmes and photographs from Paris and Menton’s collections. On Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September, the museum is open from 10 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 to 6 pm. Admission costs €5, with a reduced rate of €3.75.

On Saturday, September 26 at 2:30 pm, a guided tour of Le Château de la Bête is also available. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and costs €9, including museum admission.

At the Bastion, visitors can also take part in the Visite guidée : Le Bastion, musée Jean Cocteau, dedicated to the history of the former military fort transformed by Cocteau into his testamentary museum. The Saturday tour is scheduled for 2:30 pm and lasts approximately 45 minutes. The cost is €4 plus museum admission, and registration is required.

For those interested in photography, the Exposition photo Heather McDonough can be visited at the Bibliothèque anglaise Saint John’s, 31 avenue Carnot. The free exhibition presents photographs taken inside Menton’s St John’s English Church in 2003, exploring themes of memory, community and belonging. On Saturday, September 26, the exhibition is open from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.

At the Galerie des Musées, Palais de l’Europe, 8 avenue Boyer, visitors can also see Les jardins enchantés de Jean Cocteau, an exhibition dedicated to the relationship between Cocteau and the natural world. On Saturday, September 26, it is open from 10 am to 12 pm and from 2 to 6 pm. Admission costs €2, with a reduced rate of €1. The gallery is closed on Sunday.

Markets and shopping: Saturday morning in Menton

Saturday morning is an excellent time for anyone who enjoys markets and local products. The Marché des Halles de Menton, the city’s historic covered market located between the harbour and the old town, is open on Saturday, September 26 from 8 am to 1 pm. Dating back to 1898, the market brings together traders selling fresh and local products and is one of the best places to experience Menton’s culinary traditions.

Nearby, the Marché forain, Menton’s non-food market, offers clothing, household goods, furniture, toys and other items. The market takes place on Saturday, September 26 from 7:30 am to 1 pm at Place Fornari, with part of the market extending towards Mail du Bastion.

The Marché du Careï, located at 4 promenade du Maréchal Leclerc de Hautecloque, is also open on Saturday from 7:30 am to 1 pm. The market features mainly food products, with around fifteen stalls.

The flavours of Menton: food tours and tastings

The weekend also offers several opportunities to discover Menton through its cuisine. On Saturday, September 26, from 11 am to 2 pm, visitors can join the Gourmet Food Tour à Menton, departing from the Carrousel de Menton. The gastronomic tour takes in the market, restaurants and specialist food shops, with tastings including pichade, barbajuan, tapenade, socca, cheeses, white truffle and Provençal wines, as well as preparations featuring Menton lemon. The tour is limited to ten participants and costs €90 for adults and €40 for children aged 10 to 14.

Another gastronomic experience available on both Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September, from 11 am to 2 pm, is the Expérience gastronomique à Menton, departing from Carrousel de Menton, 11 rue Saint-Michel. The experience combines tastings, the market, restaurants and local shops, featuring pichade, barbajuan, tapenade, socca, cheeses, Provençal wines and lemon desserts. The price is €90 for participants aged 11 and over and €40 for children aged 6 to 11.

On Saturday evening, from 6 to 9 pm, the Soirée dégustation de vins à Menton offers an experience dedicated to wine and local food. The programme includes a visit to a producer, tastings of citrus-infused wines inspired by Menton’s famous lemon, visits to wine shops and tastings of Provençal wines accompanied by cheese and cured meats. The evening ends with a tasting of traditional Menton lemon tart. The group is limited to ten participants and the price is €115.

Discovering the Menton Lemon

Lovers of citrus fruit can also head into the countryside for a visit to the lemon orchards. On Saturday, September 26, the Visite guidée et repas champêtre à La Ferme des Citrons is available at La Ferme des Citrons. The experience includes a 4×4 transfer to the upper part of the estate, a guided tour of approximately one hour among Menton IGP lemons and other citrus fruits, a lunch featuring local specialities and free time in the orchard. The indicated Saturday departure window is 9:50–10:35 am, with the return expected approximately between 3 and 5 pm. Prices are €39 for adults and €25 for children aged 3 to 10. Times may vary and should be confirmed when booking.

At Domaine Gannac, 2970 route de Super Garavan, visitors can also book either the Visite Guidée du Domaine Gannac or the Visite non guidée du Domaine Gannac. The guided experience focuses on the history of the estate and the Menton IGP Lemon, including access to the orchard and a tasting of organic products, while the self-guided option allows visitors to explore the orchard independently for approximately one hour. Both activities are available on Saturday, while the estate indicates that it is closed on Sunday. The exact tour times should be checked when booking.

The Escapade au coeur du Citron de Menton IGP, also at Maison Gannac, 2970 route de Super Garavan, is another option. The activity is available on Saturdays throughout the year, with the exact session time to be confirmed directly with the organiser.

One last opportunity for the sea: Pique-Nique Baignade

For those hoping to enjoy one of the last days of summer, the Pique-Nique Baignade takes place on both Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27 from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm, departing from Société Maritime – Vieux Port de Menton, Quai Napoléon III. The boat trip follows the coastline to a small cove with crystal-clear waters, where participants can enjoy a picnic and a swim before returning to Menton. Tickets cost €55 for adults and €40 for children under 13. Participants should bring their own lunch, swimwear, towel, sunscreen and, if desired, a mask and snorkel.

Sunday, September 27: the traditional Saint Michael celebrations

On Sunday morning, the Fête de la Saint-Michel reaches its traditional and religious peak. At 10 am, a solemn mass is scheduled, followed between 11:15 and 11:30 am by the procession towards Esplanade Francis Palmero. The procession is expected to arrive at around 12:15 pm, followed by induction ceremonies into the Confrérie des Magistrats du Citron and the Confrérie de l’Étiquette du Mentonnais.

At 1 pm, again at Esplanade Francis Palmero, it is time for the Grand déjeuner de la Saint-Michel, the festival’s official lunch. The menu includes spit-roasted pork, ratatouille, potatoes and homemade lemon tiramisu. The price is €18 per person. Tables can accommodate up to ten people, but individual seats cannot be booked separately. Lunch runs from 1 to 3 pm.

For visitors interested in the religious side of the day without attending the official lunch, Sunday masses in Menton include the 11 am service at the Basilique Saint-Michel in the old town, as well as services at 9 am at Chapelle Saint Laurent in Garavan and at 11 am and 6 pm at Église du Sacré-Cœur.

Sunday markets, art and local discoveries

Sunday, September 27 also offers several regular activities. The Marché du Careï is open from 7:30 am to 1 pm, while the Halles de Menton are open from 8 am to 1 pm.

For visitors who enjoy vintage objects and bargains, the Vide grenier – Les Amies du Campanin takes place on Sunday, September 27 at Parking Rondelli. The official tourism listing confirms the event but does not provide a precise opening time, so it is advisable to check with the organisers before visiting.

The Ateliers d’Art ouverts dans le Vieux Menton are also available throughout the year. On Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September, visitors can discover artists’ studios in the old town, including those of Yuri Kutyur, Michel Abbatangelo, Anne Vivier, Abdel Waheb Mahiddine and Georges Bodenstein, located around rue Longue, quai Bonaparte, rue de Bréa and rue Mattoni. The studios are generally open throughout the year, although appointments are recommended.

How to plan a weekend in Menton on September 26 and 27

To make the most of the weekend, Saturday, September 26 can begin with the covered market and local markets, followed by a choice between Jardin Maria Serena, the old town and the Cocteau exhibitions. The afternoon can be devoted to the Bastion or Jardin Serre de la Madone, while the evening can end at the Fête de la Saint-Michel with the guinguette from 6 to 10 pm.

Sunday, September 27 is the ideal day to focus on the Saint-Michel celebrations: mass, procession, ceremonies and the official lunch form the heart of the traditional programme. Visitors looking for a more relaxed itinerary can combine the festival with the local markets, the vide-grenier or a walk through the old town, bearing in mind that some exhibitions, such as Les jardins enchantés de Jean Cocteau, are closed on Sundays.

The weekend of September 26 and 27, 2026 in Menton therefore offers a wide range of experiences: from the religious and agricultural traditions of Saint Michael’s celebrations to Mediterranean gardens, exhibitions dedicated to Jean Cocteau, local markets, gastronomic tours and experiences centred around the famous Menton Lemon. For activities requiring advance booking or featuring variable schedules, it is advisable to check availability before travelling.

For those planning a stay on the French Riviera, Cannes therefore offers plenty of opportunities to create an itinerary combining the sea, the Croisette, the old town, contemporary art and local life.

Saturday, September 26: the final day of the Régates Royales

The sea will be the main attraction on Saturday, September 26, 2026. The Régates Royales de Cannes, now in their 48th edition, come to an end on Saturday after a week of competition in the Bay of Cannes. Organised by the Yacht Club de Cannes, the event brings together more than 150 classic boats and some of the world’s most famous vintage yachts, including vessels associated with renowned designers such as William Fife III, Nathanael Herreshoff and William Gardner.

Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Location: Bay of Cannes, with event activities centred around the harbour area
Time: regatta times should be checked with the organisers, as the official city calendar does not indicate a single public opening time
Admission: the races can be watched from the coast; information about the event is available from the Yacht Club de Cannes.

The Vieux-Port, particularly the area around the Pantiero, is one of the most atmospheric places from which to experience the event. The harbour regularly hosts major nautical events, including the Régates Royales.

Art and history: exhibitions to see in Cannes

The weekend is also a great opportunity to explore Cannes’ cultural scene. On Sainte-Marguerite Island, the exhibition “A Tribute to André Malraux – The Imaginary Museum Revisited” continues until October 31 at the Musée du Masque de Fer et du Fort Royal. Held to mark the 50th anniversary of Malraux’s death, the exhibition explores the role of museums in the digital age and revisits his famous concept of the “Imaginary Museum”.

Dates: June 6 to October 31, 2026
During this weekend: Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27
Location: Musée du Masque de Fer et du Fort Royal, Île Sainte-Marguerite
Opening hours: 10:00 am–5:45 pm
Admission: €6.50 full price, €3.50 reduced.

The visit can easily be combined with a trip around Sainte-Marguerite Island, turning a cultural outing into a Mediterranean excursion.

On the Croisette, the La Malmaison Contemporary Art Centre presents “Mirages of the World – The Paintings of Hervé Di Rosa”, an exhibition spanning more than four decades of the French artist’s career. Painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics and tapestries come together in a colourful artistic universe influenced by comics, popular culture, Art Brut and the arts of different cultures around the world.

Dates: July 17 to November 8, 2026
During this weekend: Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27
Location: La Malmaison Contemporary Art Centre, 47 boulevard de la Croisette
Opening hours in September: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am–1:00 pm and 2:00 pm–6:00 pm
Admission: €6.50 full price, €3.50 reduced.

In the historic Suquet district, visitors can also discover “Felicità” by Marion Charlet, presented at Suquet des Artistes, on rue Saint-Dizier. The artist creates landscapes suspended between architecture, nature and memory, using intense colours and scenes in which vegetation appears to reclaim built environments.

Dates: July 4, 2026 to January 10, 2027
During this weekend: Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27
Location: Suquet des Artistes, 7 rue Saint-Dizier
Opening hours: 10:00 am–1:00 pm and 2:00 pm–6:00 pm
Admission: €4.50 full price; €2.50 reduced; free for certain categories.

Another exhibition worth visiting that weekend is “Gilbert Portanier, Les Céramiques en Liberté 1926–2023”, at the Espace Miramar. Closing on Sunday, September 27, the exhibition marks the centenary of the artist’s birth and brings together around thirty works highlighting his exploration of ceramics, painting and sculpture.

Dates: September 8–27, 2026
During this weekend: Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27
Location: Espace Miramar, 35 rue Pasteur
Opening hours: 10:00 am–1:00 pm and 2:00 pm–6:00 pm
Admission: free.

Saturday, September 26: literature and cinema

Cannes’ cultural programme continues on Saturday with several events at the Médiathèque Noailles, on avenue Jean de Noailles.

At 10:00 am, the library hosts the “Écrire Cannes” writing competition awards ceremony, celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2026. The theme is “Cannes durable: imaginons la ville de demain!” (“Sustainable Cannes: let’s imagine the city of tomorrow!”), and excerpts from the participants’ stories will be read during the event. Admission is free.

At 3:00 pm, also at the Médiathèque Noailles, “Journal de voyage avec André Malraux, à la recherche des arts du monde entier” explores Malraux’s relationship with art. The programme includes the 1973 documentary “Le musée imaginaire d’André Malraux”, based on an interview conducted by Jean-Marie Drot. The event lasts approximately 90 minutes, is free of charge and advance booking is recommended.

Cinema enthusiasts can also attend the German Film Festival, organised by Ciné Croisette. On Saturday, September 26 at 10:30 am, Les Arcades cinema, 77 rue Félix-Faure, screens Les 3 vies de Gundermann, directed by Andreas Dresen in 2023. The director is attending the festival, which continues on Sunday, September 27.

Saturday evening, at 7:30 pm, Cinéma Olympia, on rue de la Pompe, screens Knock by Guy Lefranc as part of the Play It Again! festival. The film, starring Louis Jouvet, offers another way to end the day with a classic of French cinema. Admission is €7, with a €6.50 cinema-lover rate.

Cannes markets: Saturday, September 26 among antiques, local produce and crafts

Those who prefer to discover Cannes through everyday local life can explore several markets during the weekend.

The Marché des Allées de la Liberté, at 1 Allée de la Liberté, brings several activities together in the same location. The antiques market takes place on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, while the arts and crafts market is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. It can easily be combined with a walk towards the Vieux-Port and the old town.

The Marché Brocante des Allées de la Liberté, also at 1 Allée de la Liberté, takes place on Saturday, September 26 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is particularly appealing to visitors looking for vintage objects, antiques and unusual finds.

Another option is the Marché Gambetta, at Place Gambetta, open on Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. The market is known for clothing and leather goods, as well as fruit and vegetables, seafood and flowers.

To the west of the city, in the La Bocca district, the Marché de La Bocca, at Place du Marché, is open on both Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27 from 7:30 am to 1:00 pm. Visitors will find food products, fruit and vegetables, flowers, locally caught fish and other goods, while Saturday also features a clothing market.

The Marché Saint Jin-Jin, on the other hand, is not held during the weekend: it takes place on Tuesday and Friday mornings. It will therefore not be open on Saturday, September 26 or Sunday, September 27.

Sunday, September 27: music at the Allées de la Liberté

Sunday morning offers a free musical event in the heart of Cannes. At 11:30 am, the Kiosque à musique at the Allées de la Liberté hosts “Les Moments Musicaux de Forville”.

The concert lasts approximately one hour and is performed by students from the Cannes Conservatory. The programme includes jazz, soul and bossa, creating a relaxed atmosphere for a Sunday stroll among the market stalls. Admission is free.

Sunday morning also offers the opportunity to take part in “Nettoyons la nature”, organised as part of the European Sustainable Development Week. The initiative takes place from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm in the basse vallée de la Siagne, along Chemin de la Plaine de Laval in Cannes La Bocca. Participants will collect litter in an initiative organised by the Méditerranée 2000 association. Participation is free, but registration is required.

Sunday, September 27: the German Film Festival continues

The German Film Festival continues on Sunday, September 27. At 10:30 am, Olympia cinema, 5 rue d’Antibes, screens Un été à Berlin, directed by Andreas Dresen in 2005. The film follows the everyday lives of two friends and the residents of their Berlin apartment building.

For cinema lovers, this makes it possible to build a weekend itinerary around German cinema, while also discovering the other exhibitions and cultural events taking place throughout Cannes.

A weekend in Cannes between the sea, culture and local life

The weekend of September 26 and 27, 2026 in Cannes offers a particularly varied programme. Saturday is dominated by the Régates Royales, with the conclusion of the major classic sailing event, but visitors can also combine the waterfront with exhibitions dedicated to Malraux, Hervé Di Rosa, Marion Charlet and Gilbert Portanier before exploring the city’s literary and cinematic programme.

Sunday has a more relaxed atmosphere, with the markets, the free concert at the Kiosque à musique, the continuation of the exhibitions and the second day of the German Film Festival. Those interested in environmental initiatives can instead spend the morning taking part in “Nettoyons la nature” in the Siagne valley.

The Palais des Festivals is also in its 2026/2027 season, which officially began on September 18 and continues until June 27, 2027. However, this general season listing does not correspond to a specific performance on September 26 or 27, so the programme of individual shows should be checked before purchasing tickets.

The same applies to the Orchestre national de Cannes 2026/2027 season. The orchestra is active during this period, but the concert scheduled for September 26, 2026, listed in the official programme, takes place in Mandelieu, at Église Notre-Dame du Liban, at 9:00 pm, rather than in Cannes.

For visitors arriving in Cannes for the weekend, the ideal approach is therefore to combine the Croisette and Vieux-Port, the Régates Royales, the city markets, the exhibitions and the cultural programme, while leaving time for a walk through Le Suquet and along the Mediterranean. In two days, Cannes offers a chance to experience both its international image and its more authentic everyday atmosphere.

One of the main Saturday morning events is the EDF Aqua Challenge – Le Tour du Cap d’Antibes, taking place on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 7:30 am to 2 pm, with the event village located at Plage de la Salis. Organised by the Cercle des Nageurs d’Antibes and the Fédération Française de Natation, the event is dedicated to open-water swimming, with races of 400 metres, 1 km, 3 km and 10 km. The first start is scheduled for 7:30 am from Plage du Crouton for the 10-km fin-swimming race, followed at 7:40 am by the individual and relay 10-km races. At Plage de la Salis, the 1-km and 3-km races, the Knock-Out event and, at 12:15 pm, the 400-metre Kids race will follow. The village opens at 6:30 am and closes at 2 pm. Admission for spectators is free, making this a good opportunity to watch the competition along the spectacular Cap d’Antibes coastline.

Also on Saturday, September 26, the Semboules district hosts the third edition of the Kids Trail des Semboules, a running event for young participants. The meeting point is the Parc de loisirs des Semboules, 702 boulevard André Breton, with activities scheduled from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. The races are open to children and teenagers aged 7 to 15 and are divided into four categories. The “Marmottes” start at 9:30 am over 900 metres, followed at 10 am by the “Renards” over 1.6 km, at 10:30 am by the “Cerfs” over 3.7 km and at 11 am by the “Loups”, who tackle the longest 5.6-km course. The awards ceremony begins at 11:45 am. Bib collection ends at 9 am. The listed entry fee for the 2026 edition is €5.

For those who prefer to start the day with books, the Médiathèque Albert Camus, at 19 bis boulevard Gustave Chancel, hosts Rentrée littéraire à la médiathèque on Saturday, September 26, from 10 am to noon. Organised in partnership with the Dernier Rempart bookshop, the event takes the form of a breakfast gathering devoted to new literary releases. It is an opportunity to discover new novels, exchange ideas about the latest publications and find reading inspiration for the autumn. Admission is free.

The morning also features the international IBSA Regatta, taking place from September 24 to 26 at the Base Nautique d’Antibes. On Saturday, September 26, the races begin at 9:30 am, followed in the afternoon by the finals, while the awards ceremony is scheduled for 5 pm. The event focuses on inclusive sailing and brings together young sailors aged 12 to 17, with and without disabilities. Around 45 crews from France, Italy, Monaco, Germany, Belgium and the United Kingdom are expected for the fourth edition. Admission for spectators is free.

Craft enthusiasts can spend part of the day at the Espaces du Fort Carré, where the 5th Salon des loisirs créatifs autour du fil runs from September 24 to 26, from 10 am to 6 pm. Organised by the Des Fils et des Couleurs association, the event brings together around 70 exhibitors specialising in activities involving textiles and thread. Patchwork, sewing, knitting, wool spinning, embroidery, crochet, lace-making and bookbinding are among the activities on offer. Professional workshops will also be held, while visitors can purchase materials, accessories, kits and handmade creations. Admission is free.

Saturday afternoon continues in the Croix Rouge district with the Fête de la Croix Rouge, a free event taking place from 4 pm to 10:30 pm at Îlot Croix Rouge. The programme is designed for all ages and combines entertainment, games, sports demonstrations, theatre, dance and music. Activities include figurine workshops, wooden games, street art, chess, pétanque, sports demonstrations by Team Taurus Academy, Portuguese folk dancing, theatre sketches for children and families, and DJ music. A bouncy castle is also available from 4 pm to 10:30 pm for children aged 3 to 10. An aperitif is scheduled for 6:30 pm, followed by dance entertainment from 6:45 pm. Admission is free.

For basketball fans, the major evening sporting event takes place at the Azurarena Antibes, where the Antibes Sharks open their new season with a double-header. At 4 pm, the women’s Nationale 2 team faces Saint-Martin-d’Hères, while at 7 pm the Élite 2 team makes its debut against Nantes. A ticket for the Sharks game also gives access to the women’s match, while admission to the women’s game alone is free. Ticketing and information are available from the club.

Handball fans can head to the Salle Saint-Claude, where at 8:15 pm the OAJLP Handball takes on H Bagnols Gard Rhodanien in the French Nationale 2 men’s championship. Admission is free, making it another opportunity to experience local sport during the weekend.

Theatre completes Saturday evening’s programme. At the Théâtre du Tribunal, 5 place Amiral Barnaud, at 8:30 pm, audiences can see “Bagage cabine”, a performance by Magali Gio running from September 24 to 26. The monologue offers an introspective and universal journey, combining humour with observations on contemporary society. Saturday, September 26 is therefore the final opportunity to see the show during this run. Tickets are required.

Another theatre option is “La Mouette”, performed at Théâtre Antibéa, 15 rue Georges Clemenceau. Anton Chekhov’s play, directed by Dominique Czapski, explores love, life, death and, above all, art and social change. During the weekend, performances are scheduled for Saturday, September 26 at 8:30 pm and Sunday, September 27 at 4 pm. Tickets are required, with prices starting at around €17.

The weekend also coincides with the Grande braderie de Juan-les-Pins, running from Friday, September 25 to Sunday, September 27 in the shopping streets of Juan-les-Pins. From 10 am to 7 pm, participating shops offer special deals and discounts on their collections, including clothing, accessories, jewellery and footwear. The main commercial area of Juan-les-Pins becomes pedestrianised for the occasion. It is a good opportunity to combine shopping with a walk through the resort during the weekend.

Art remains an important part of the programme on September 26 and 27, with several exhibitions reaching their final days. One of the most striking is “Mythologies contemporaines” by Christophe Charbonnel, on display until Sunday, September 27. The open-air exhibition extends across the Remparts, Port Vauban, Vieil Antibes and the Les Arcades exhibition space on boulevard d’Aguillon. The artist’s monumental sculptures interact with the historic architecture and Mediterranean landscape. Admission is free and, as much of the exhibition is outdoors, it can easily be incorporated into a walk through the old town.

Until Sunday, September 27, the Musée Picasso, housed in the Château Grimaldi, presents “Michel Verjux, Voiles, découpes, traverses”. The exhibition explores the relationship between light, space and architecture that characterises Verjux’s work. The artist uses illumination as an artistic intervention in the exhibition space. During the weekend, the museum is open from 10 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm, and is closed on Mondays. Visits and workshops are also available, with advance booking required at least 48 hours beforehand.

For another cultural stop, the Musée de la Carte Postale, at 4 avenue Tournelli, presents “Une araignée au plafond”, an exhibition running until January 31, 2027. During the weekend of September 26–27, the museum is open Saturday and Sunday from 2 pm to 6 pm. The exhibition uses a collection of vintage postcards to explore different representations of spiders, from symbols of good luck to unsettling images and later forms of caricature and popular imagery. Admission is €8, with free entry for children up to 12 years old.

Another exhibition to see before the end of September is “L’art d’être unique” 2026, presented at the Casemate Comte, boulevard d’Aguillon, until Wednesday, September 30. The exhibition-workshop by Nathalie Sasizza, creator of the Naelys brand, introduces visitors to the world of handcrafted leather goods. The casemate becomes an open workshop where visitors can observe the craftsmanship involved in creating leather objects. Admission is free, with opening hours of 10 am to 7 pm during the weekend.

Nearby, “Welkin”, a solo exhibition by sculptor Nikita Zigura, is presented at Casemate 19, boulevard d’Aguillon, until September 30. The artist combines classical sculptural traditions with contemporary approaches, exploring form, materials and scale while reflecting on the role of art today. Admission is free, making this another interesting stop during a walk through the casemates.

At Casemates 25 and 26, also on boulevard d’Aguillon, the exhibition by the TERRANOVA collective continues until October 3 as part of the programme “De septembre à janvier dans les Casemates 25 et 26”. The exhibition brings together artists Chris Krainik, Manon Letellier and Alexis Carpentier, who use ceramics as a field of experimentation between contemporary art, pop culture and urban imagery. During the September 26–27 weekend, the exhibition is free and open from 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm.

The Bicentenaire de la photographie, running in Antibes from September 15 to October 31, also continues throughout the autumn with events dedicated to the 200th anniversary of photography. The programme traces the development of the medium from Niépce’s early experiments through to digital photography and artificial intelligence, linking the history of photographic technology with art and changes in the way the world is represented. The related events are free of charge; as the programme includes several locations and activities, opening times depend on the individual event.

Sunday, September 27, 2026 has a more relaxed pace, but there are still plenty of options. The Grande braderie continues throughout the day in the shopping streets of Juan-les-Pins, while “La Mouette” offers a 4 pm theatre performance at Théâtre Antibéa. Those who prefer art and walking can make the most of the final day of “Mythologies contemporaines”, with Christophe Charbonnel’s sculptures spread between the old town, the Remparts and Port Vauban.

Overall, the weekend of September 26–27, 2026 in Antibes makes it easy to create a tailor-made itinerary: sport and the sea in the early hours of Saturday, culture and crafts during the day, shopping in Juan-les-Pins and theatre or sport in the evening. Sunday can be devoted to the final days of exhibitions, the braderie and theatre, before ending the weekend with a stroll through the old town or along the Mediterranean waterfront.

The result was announced in Paris on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, during the ceremony for the fourth edition of The World’s 50 Best Hotels. Held at the Salles du Carrousel, the event brought together leading figures from international tourism and the luxury hospitality industry.

Representing Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo at the ceremony were Louis Starck, General Manager, and Vincent Chasseignaux, Hotel Manager.

The latest accolade further strengthens the hotel’s international reputation and adds to a series of recognitions received throughout the year.

Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo: More Than 160 Years of History in Monaco

The history of Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo dates back to 1864, when the hotel opened at the heart of the emerging Monte-Carlo tourist destination.

Overlooking Place du Casino, the hotel has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Monte-Carlo. Its Belle Époque-inspired architecture, lavish interiors and location next to the Casino de Monte-Carlo have made it an enduring icon of the Principality.

The hotel is also ideally positioned close to some of Monaco’s major attractions, including Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo and the Opéra de Monte-Carlo.

Yet Hôtel de Paris is defined by more than its history. Over the decades, the hotel has continually reinvented itself while preserving its distinctive identity and commitment to Monaco’s tradition of hospitality.

The Renovation and 206 Rooms and Suites

A major chapter in this evolution was the extensive renovation completed in 2019, following five years of work.

Today, Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo features 206 rooms and suites, combining the heritage of the historic building with contemporary design and meticulous attention to detail.

Among its most exclusive accommodations are the Diamond Suites, including the Diamond Suite Prince Rainier III and the Diamond Suite Princesse Grace, named after two figures closely associated with Monaco’s history.

The rooms and suites are designed to combine the hotel’s historic character with the services and standards expected of a leading international luxury property.

Four Michelin Stars and a Major Culinary Offering

Gastronomy is one of the defining elements of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo experience.

The hotel is home to four Michelin stars, awarded across two of its flagship restaurants: Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse, which holds three stars, and Le Grill, which holds one.

The culinary offering extends beyond its Michelin-starred restaurants. Em Sherif Monte-Carlo celebrates the flavors of Lebanese cuisine, while Le Bar Américain offers an elegant setting with a strong connection to the tradition of jazz.

The hotel is also home to Cédric Grolet Monte-Carlo, located in the heart of the Patio, where the renowned pastry chef presents his contemporary interpretations of pastry.

Together, these venues make Hôtel de Paris not only a luxury accommodation but also an important gastronomic destination within the Principality.

The Hôtel de Paris Wine Cellars: More Than 300,000 Bottles

Among the hotel’s most remarkable features are the Caves de l’Hôtel de Paris, created in 1874 and located approximately 12 meters underground.

The cellars cover 1,500 square meters and house more than 300,000 bottles, representing over 11,000 wine references.

The collection constitutes one of the most significant wine holdings in the international luxury hospitality sector and forms an integral part of the gastronomic heritage of Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo.

In June 2026, the cellars also received the 2026 Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator, further recognizing the quality and depth of the wine selection preserved beneath the hotel.

Another International Recognition for Monaco’s Luxury Hospitality

Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo’s 40th-place ranking in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2026 follows another major international recognition: its inclusion in the La Liste 2026, which features 1,000 hotels selected worldwide.

Together, these accolades reflect the ongoing work of the hotel and its teams, who continue to combine the property’s historic heritage with the evolving expectations of contemporary luxury hospitality.

From its Belle Époque façade to its prestigious suites, from Michelin-starred dining to its historic underground wine cellars, Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo continues to build its identity around a combination of heritage, luxury, gastronomy and innovation.

More than 160 years after its opening, the Monte-Carlo icon adds another chapter to its international story, once again earning a place among the world’s most renowned hotels.

The event will be centered around Plage des Sablettes, with athletes alternating swimming sections in the sea with running along the city’s waterfront. Following its Côte d’Azur debut in Cannes in 2025, YOTTA XP returns to the region for a new event supported by the Alpes-Maritimes Department.

How Does YOTTA XP Work?

The concept behind YOTTA XP is easy to understand but demanding to complete. Athletes must repeatedly complete a loop combining swimming and running, while respecting a specific time limit each time.

The cut-off becomes progressively stricter: with every loop, the amount of time available to complete the course decreases. Athletes who cross the finish line within the time limit can continue, while those who fail to do so are eliminated.

The format turns every loop into a new challenge. Success depends not only on speed, but also on the ability to manage energy, pace and transitions between water and land.

Four Formats for YOTTA XP Menton 2026

The Menton edition offers four formats, designed to accommodate different levels of participation:

• YOTTA XP S
• YOTTA XP S Relay
• YOTTA XP M
• YOTTA XP M Relay

The M events feature 400 meters of swimming and 4 kilometers of running per loop, with a maximum of five loops.

The S formats, meanwhile, include 200 meters of swimming and 2 kilometers of running per loop, again for a maximum of five loops.

The relay format also allows participants to compete as a team, adding a strategic and collaborative dimension to the individual challenge.

YOTTA XP M: Top Athletes Set to Compete

Particular attention will focus on the YOTTA XP M, which is expected to bring several high-level athletes to Menton.

The announced line-up includes Antoine Olivier, Olympic bronze medalist in the 10-kilometer open-water swimming event at Rio 2016, Igor Dupuis, 2026 French short-distance champion, Élie Combat, 2026 French aquathlon champion, and Ilona Hadhoum, junior world champion.

Several swimmers from the Cercle des Nageurs d’Antibes, one of the region’s leading swimming clubs, are also expected to take part.

Other announced competitors include Jeanne Lehair, a multiple winner on the WTCS circuit and fourth in the world rankings, swimrun world champions Arnaud de Lustrac and Jerome Gueguen, as well as Justine Guérard, who finished second in the fifth edition of YOTTA XP in Vichy.

€33,200 in Prize Money

The YOTTA XP M in Menton will offer a total prize purse of €33,200.

The prize money will be awarded to the top ten men and top ten women in the competition, adding an important competitive dimension to the endurance challenge.

From the Mediterranean Sea to Running Along the Riviera

One of the defining features of the Menton event will be its close connection with the local landscape.

Plage des Sablettes and the city’s coastline will provide the setting for the swimming sections, while the running course will take athletes through Menton’s urban Riviera landscape.

The alternation between water and asphalt is at the heart of the YOTTA XP concept, but in Menton it also takes on a distinctive scenic dimension. The Mediterranean becomes an integral part of the race, while the city itself transforms into a sporting course just a few kilometers from the Italian border.

YOTTA RUN Brings the Day to a Close

The event schedule will also feature the YOTTA RUN, starting at 6 p.m.

The race is structured around an initial 1-kilometer run, followed by a 2-kilometer section, repeated for up to five loops, with a cut-off system determining the pace of the competition.

Here too, athletes must meet progressively stricter time limits if they want to continue completing additional loops.

YOTTA XP: A Challenge Born in Vichy

The YOTTA XP story began in Vichy in 2022, based on an idea developed by Sacha Rosenthal, founder and CEO of the XEFI Group.

The concept is built around combining open-water swimming and running through a format based on progressively shorter time limits. The reduction of the cut-off after each loop gradually increases the difficulty, forcing athletes to find the right balance between speed and energy management.

Over the years, the event has expanded to include individual races, relay formats and competitions for younger participants.

After its origins in Vichy and its Côte d’Azur debut in Cannes in 2025, YOTTA XP now arrives in Menton, bringing its distinctive format to the Franco-Italian Riviera.

Nelson Monfort to Meet the Athletes

The event will also feature Nelson Monfort, the well-known French sports journalist and television commentator.

During the event, Monfort will meet participants to gather their impressions, emotions and stories from the competition, adding a human and narrative dimension to an event that aims to highlight not only sporting performance but also the athletes’ personal experience.

YOTTA XP Menton 2026: October 10 Appointment

The first YOTTA XP in Menton will bring a sporting format based on endurance, speed and adaptability to the Riviera.

Swimming, running and increasingly demanding time limits will challenge athletes throughout a day set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean and Plage des Sablettes.

The event takes place on Saturday, October 10, 2026, with four formats covering individual and relay races, while the YOTTA XP M will offer €33,200 in prize money.

Registration for YOTTA XP Menton 2026 is available online through the official registration platform.

The ninth edition of the professional jazz market will take place on October 29 and 30, 2026, at the Palais des Congrès Antipolis, turning the French Riviera into a meeting place for artists, programmers, festivals, concert venues, clubs, agents and media.

Jammin’Juan is not simply a concert series. It is a platform designed to support the promotion and circulation of emerging jazz, creating opportunities for artists to meet the professionals who can help bring their music to stages across Europe and beyond.

Twelve showcases to discover the jazz of tomorrow

The heart of the event will be its professional showcases, with twelve acts in total, six each day. Every artist or group will have 35 minutes to present their project in front of programmers, journalists and audiences.

On Thursday, October 29, the programme features Jennings/Perchaud Duo Acoustique, Buck, Knobil, Anthony Jambon Group, Awa Ly and Matti Klein Soul Trio.

Friday, October 30 will see performances by Crozphonics, Nicolas Gardel Quartet, Nils Kassap & Friends, Bram de Looze Solo, Johan Dupont Trio and Elise Vassallucci Quintet.

This international selection confirms Jammin’Juan’s role as a platform for discovering new musical languages and supporting artists who are still establishing themselves on the European scene.

Where jazz meets the music industry

One of Jammin’Juan’s defining features is its professional dimension. The showcases are designed to connect artists with key players in the music ecosystem, including festivals, concert venues, clubs, agencies, media and music programmers.

The format encourages networking and turns live performance into a potential professional opportunity. For two days, Juan-les-Pins becomes an international laboratory where industry professionals can discover emerging projects and identify artists who could become part of future festival and concert programmes.

Setenta opens the evening concerts

Alongside the professional showcases, Jammin’Juan will offer two evening concerts open to the general public.

On Thursday, October 29, at 9 p.m., the spotlight will be on Setenta, the Paris-based group founded in 2006 and now recognised as an international reference in Latin jazz funk.

Led by singer and producer Osman Jr, the band combines Latin jazz, soul, funk, hip hop and Afro-Cuban influences. In 2026, twenty years after its creation, Setenta is entering a new phase in its artistic journey, exploring the meeting point between Nuyorican musical traditions, hip hop and jazz.

Ink between jazz improvisation and African roots

On Friday, October 30, it will be the turn of Ink, a project led by drummer and composer Victor Gachet.

The seven-piece ensemble explores the relationship between jazz improvisation and African oral traditions, developing a musical language in which contemporary sounds and cultural roots constantly interact.

The project follows the path established with the album African Roots and continued with the new single Deni, which brings Burkinabè singing traditions into dialogue with contemporary jazz.

Jammin’Juan also brings jazz to younger audiences

Music will also leave the Palais des Congrès to reach a younger audience.

On Friday, October 30, the Médiathèque Albert Camus will host Rajasthan Express, a musical journey through Rajasthan designed to introduce children and families to music and jazz through an accessible and engaging experience.

The event adds an educational and family dimension to Jammin’Juan, highlighting the festival’s commitment to introducing new generations to musical culture.

Tickets and passes for Jammin’Juan 2026

The event maintains its dual identity: a professional gathering, with showcases and networking opportunities, and a public programme featuring evening concerts and family events.

Showcase passes cost €12 for one day and €20 for both days.

Evening concerts are priced at €15, with a reduced rate of €12. A two-concert pass is also available for €28, or €22 at the reduced rate.

Industry professionals can purchase dedicated passes for €55 for one day or €100 for two days, including the relevant admissions and dinners.

Juan-les-Pins becomes a showcase for emerging jazz

With its ninth edition, Jammin’Juan is once again preparing to make Juan-les-Pins a meeting point for the present and future of jazz.

On one side are musicians looking for new stages and professional opportunities; on the other, programmers, festivals, media and industry professionals searching for projects capable of reflecting the evolution of the genre.

This meeting is at the heart of the Jammin’Juan 2026 concept: turning the French Riviera into a European hub for emerging jazz and giving today’s new talents the opportunity to reach tomorrow’s stages.

For an entire week, the waters of the French Riviera will be filled with genuine racing action. The event is not simply a celebration of the elegance of historic yachts: crews will compete in tactical battles and close-fought races, fighting for every metre of the course.

Cannes becomes the capital of classic sailing

The 48th edition of the Régates Royales is one of the key events on the international calendar for classic sailing. The fleet brings together yachts from different periods and categories, united by a shared connection to the tradition of sailing.

Among the boats taking part are authentic examples of naval design history, including yachts associated with renowned designers such as William Fife III, Nathanael Herreshoff and William Gardner.

The charm of historic boats is therefore combined with the competitive side of the event, creating a unique encounter between vessels that represent an important chapter in the history of yachting.

The racing classes in the Bay of Cannes

The races take place in the Bay of Cannes and the waters surrounding the Lérins Islands, with different courses designed according to the characteristics of each class.

The programme includes several categories from classic and international sailing, including:

• 12 Metre
• 8 Metre
• 5.5 Metre
• Dragon
• Tofinou
• classic yachts racing under CIM rating rules

The variety of the fleet means spectators can watch races involving very different types of boats, from metric-class yachts and Dragon boats to historic sailing yachts.

Where to watch the Régates Royales in Cannes

One of the distinctive features of the event is that the public can watch the main stages of the competition free of charge.

Race starts and yacht returns can be viewed from the quays of the Vieux-Port and from other panoramic locations along the coastline.

Classic yachts will be concentrated around the Vieux-Port, while the Dragon and 5.5 Metre fleets will be based at the renovated Cannes Yacht Club at Pointe Croisette.

The Régates Royales 2026 programme

The event begins with the arrival of the fleets and preliminary activities before moving into the heart of the competition with the racing programme.

Saturday, September 19 – Monday, September 21

Arrival of the fleet, crew registration, technical inspections, boat preparation and launching operations.

Monday, September 21

The first competitive event for the Dragon class, with the start scheduled for 12 noon.

Tuesday, September 22

The other classes join the competition. Dragon races are scheduled to start at 11 a.m., 5.5 Metre races at 11:30 a.m. and the other categories at around noon. The day will also feature an elegance contest for classic yachts.

Wednesday, September 23

A full second day of racing for Dragons, 5.5 Metres, classic yachts and metric classes.

Thursday, September 24

Racing continues in the Bay of Cannes, with dedicated courses for the different categories.

Friday, September 25

The penultimate day of competition, with the fleets continuing to battle on their respective courses.

Saturday, September 26

The final races and official conclusion of the 48th Régates Royales Cannes.

Sunday, September 27

The week continues with the traditional sailing passage from Cannes to Saint-Tropez, following the conclusion of the racing programme.

The Village des Régates at Quai Saint-Pierre

The event will extend beyond the racing area. Throughout the entire competition, the Village des Régates, located at Quai Saint-Pierre, will serve as the main meeting point on shore.

The village will host exhibitors and activities open to the public, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the Régates Royales away from the racecourse as well.

Admission to the areas dedicated to the event is free.

Historic yachts and sport: the two faces of the Régates Royales

The Régates Royales Cannes bring together two closely connected elements: the preservation of maritime heritage and sporting competition.

On one side are yachts that tell decades of stories about sailing and naval design. On the other are crews who must compete on the racecourse using tactical skills, precision and their ability to read the wind.

This combination is what makes the Cannes event particularly distinctive. The yachts can be admired for their elegance, craftsmanship and historical significance, but once the sails are raised, they become competitive racing machines once again.

For an entire week, classic sailing takes centre stage in Cannes, with more than 150 boats competing in the waters of the bay and around the Lérins Islands. It is an event where maritime history, sport and spectacle come together on the same racecourse.

Following the success of singer Styleto’s summer performance at Fort Antoine, Kaleido returns on October 3, 2026, with a rock event showcasing new sounds and emerging talent from the international music scene.

For the occasion, one of the Principality’s emblematic cultural venues will take on a new identity. The Auditorium Rainier III will host a temporary stage in the Troparium, transforming the space for one evening into an intimate concert venue with a festival atmosphere.

The concept is designed to offer young people in Monaco a different kind of cultural experience, combining a distinctive architectural setting with contemporary music.

Kaleido 2026: DJ set, street food and live concerts

The evening will begin at 6 p.m. with a DJ set and food trucks, creating a relaxed atmosphere inspired by the spirit of a small-scale music festival.

From 8:30 p.m., the spotlight will turn to live performances by two acts from different generations and musical backgrounds: The Sophs, arriving from California, and French duo Copycat.

Their music spans indie rock, pop, punk, funk and contemporary influences, with live energy at the centre of the evening.

The Sophs: California rock without boundaries

Headlining the event will be The Sophs, a California sextet led by Ethan and known for a sound that refuses to fit neatly into a single genre.

The band combines indie rock, pop-punk, funk, blues and 1990s-inspired sounds, creating a deliberately unpredictable musical identity. Rather than following one formula, The Sophs move freely between different influences.

Their debut album, “GOLDSTAR”, released by Rough Trade, has helped establish the group’s distinctive style and attracted attention from the international music press.

Le Monde has described them as “California rockers and chameleons”, while Les Inrockuptibles has identified the band as a potential new reference point for rock fans.

After performing on international stages, The Sophs were also part of the 2026 line-up of the Eurockéennes de Belfort on July 4.

In Monaco, the band will bring a live performance built around energy, musical crossovers and unpredictability.

Copycat: Apolline and Zoé’s energetic pop-rock

Also taking the stage at the Troparium will be Copycat, the duo formed by cousins Apolline and Zoé.

The project was born almost by chance, following an impromptu musical performance during a family lunch. That spontaneous encounter developed into a duo that quickly gained attention on the French music scene, eventually being selected for the INOUÏS du Printemps de Bourges 2026, one of France’s key platforms for discovering and supporting emerging musical talent.

Their debut EP, “Morning Routine”, approaches everyday life with humour and self-deprecation, touching on relationships, love, body image, nights out and the everyday challenges of being in your twenties.

Copycat’s sound is built around a few essential elements — a red guitar, a blue bass and a drum machine — combined with the strong musical chemistry between the two artists.

When a concert becomes a show

Live performance is at the heart of Copycat’s identity. Apolline and Zoé do more than simply perform their songs: they create a show designed to bring the audience into their world.

Dance, choreography, humour and guitar solos all become part of the performance, creating a spontaneous and energetic pop-rock experience.

The duo’s colourful stage presence fits perfectly with the spirit of Kaleido, which aims to introduce young audiences to contemporary music through original and accessible cultural experiences.

Kaleido brings new cultural experiences to young people in Monaco

With this new event, the Direction des Affaires Culturelles continues to develop Kaleido as a programme designed to offer young people in the Principality opportunities to discover contemporary artistic languages and new cultural experiences.

Following the pop-focused summer event with Styleto, this edition turns towards rock and emerging artists, combining live music, a relaxed atmosphere and an iconic venue transformed especially for the occasion.

The Troparium at the Auditorium Rainier III will become a temporary stage for an evening designed to challenge the traditional concert format and recreate the intimate atmosphere of a small music festival.

Kaleido Monaco: free admission

The event will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Auditorium Rainier III in Monaco.

Admission is free, with booking recommended through Monte-Carlo Ticket.

The programme includes:

• 6 p.m.: DJ set and food trucks
• 8:30 p.m.: live concerts by The Sophs and Copycat
• Venue: Troparium, Auditorium Rainier III, Monaco

Kaleido’s new edition promises to be one of Monaco’s most distinctive autumn music events for young audiences, offering the chance to discover emerging artists while experiencing one of the Principality’s cultural venues in an entirely different setting.

The exhibition brings together 103 works, primarily paintings, spanning more than forty years of the artist’s career, from his beginnings in the 1980s to his most recent production. The exhibition traces the evolution of a highly distinctive visual language shaped by the encounter between painting, comics, popular culture, decorative arts and traditions from different parts of the world.

The exhibition extends beyond La Malmaison’s interior spaces. The building’s outdoor areas also become part of the project: six sculptures are installed across the forecourt and rooftop terrace, creating a direct dialogue with the architecture and with visitors along the Croisette.

From the 1980s to Figuration Libre

The Mirages of the World exhibition begins on the ground floor with works from the 1980s, a crucial period in Hervé Di Rosa’s career and in the emergence of Figuration Libre, the movement that helped challenge the dominant artistic languages of the period.

The works from this phase are populated by eccentric figures, fantastical characters and hybrid forms. Intense colors and a strong graphic quality create an immediately recognizable universe, bringing together references to comics, television, mass culture and everyday life.

It is an art that rejects rigid distinctions between “high” and popular culture, finding one of its defining characteristics in the freedom of its imagery.

Hervé Di Rosa: When Travel Becomes Artistic Material

Travel is one of the most important threads running through Hervé Di Rosa’s artistic research. On the first floor of La Malmaison, the exhibition takes on an international dimension, focusing on experiences developed by the artist in numerous countries.

Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, the United States and Latin America progressively entered his visual imagination. But these places were not simply subjects to be represented: Di Rosa engaged directly with craftspeople, techniques and local traditions, turning each encounter into an opportunity for experimentation.

In Vietnam, for example, the artist explored traditional lacquer techniques. In Ghana and South Africa, he worked with painting on metal sheets, while in Mexico he experimented with sculptural forms connected to local traditions.

The result is a body of work that is difficult to classify according to conventional categories. Painting, sculpture and craft come together in works that challenge the traditional distinction between contemporary art and popular artistic practices.

A Visual Atlas of Cultures and Traditions

The international dimension of Mirages of the World is not simply a biographical chapter in the artist’s career. Travel becomes a means through which Di Rosa expands his visual vocabulary.

Every encounter with a different culture brings new materials, techniques and forms. The artist therefore does not merely transfer exotic images into his work, but creates a genuine visual atlas, in which personal experiences and collective traditions intersect.

This dialogue is what makes the La Malmaison exhibition particularly significant: Di Rosa’s universe appears as a network of cultural contaminations in which there are no rigid boundaries between contemporary art, popular culture, craft and memory.

Recent Works at La Malmaison

The final section of the exhibition is devoted to the artist’s most recent works. Here, the focus returns to Di Rosa’s personal universe while maintaining a dialogue with the experiences accumulated over several decades.

Characters, colors and images drawn from popular culture remain central, while memories of travel and experiments developed in different cultural contexts converge in a body of work that remains immediately recognizable.

The exhibition thus also becomes a story of Di Rosa’s artistic evolution: from the beginnings of Figuration Libre to his contemporary research, through an artistic practice shaped by continuous encounters with different worlds, techniques and cultures.

Who Is Hervé Di Rosa?

Born in Sète in 1959, Hervé Di Rosa is regarded as one of the central figures of Figuration Libre, the French artistic movement that emerged between the late 1970s and the 1980s.

Together with Robert Combas, Rémi Blanchard and François Boisrond, Di Rosa helped develop a figurative language free from established hierarchies and open to images drawn from popular culture.

After studying at the École nationale supérieure des arts décoratifs in Paris, the artist developed a universe populated by fantastical characters, distorted figures, vivid colors and references to comics and mass culture.

His artistic research, however, has gone far beyond painting. Throughout his career, Di Rosa has developed an international practice based on encounters with local artistic techniques and traditions.

Since 2000, the MIAM and the “Modest Arts”

Another important chapter in his career is linked to the MIAM – Musée International des Arts Modestes, founded in Sète in 2000.

The museum was created to highlight artistic and cultural forms that have often remained outside institutional circuits: popular objects, crafts, images from everyday culture and works that are difficult to fit into conventional classifications.

The same spirit of openness runs through Di Rosa’s artistic practice and finds a new synthesis in Mirages of the World.

“Mirages of the World”: An Exhibition Between Contemporary Art and Popular Culture

In Cannes, the retrospective devoted to Hervé Di Rosa offers more than a simple chronological sequence of works. Mirages of the World creates a journey through more than four decades of images, encounters and experimentation.

From the paintings of the 1980s to works created during international travels and his most recent production, the exhibition presents an artist who has made cultural cross-pollination the heart of his practice.

At La Malmaison in Cannes, until November 8, 2026, painting, sculpture, craft and popular culture come together in a single exhibition journey. It is an invitation to enter Hervé Di Rosa’s universe, where geographical distances become opportunities for encounter and different forms of art can exist side by side without hierarchy.

The evening will begin at 9 p.m., when the Casino Café de Paris will be transformed into an immersive experience. Guests will be able to enjoy artistic performances, live music, interactive experiences and a variety of entertainment throughout the night.

An evening of live music, performances and immersive entertainment

“Carnival Fortune” is designed to combine entertainment and conviviality in a unique setting. The spaces inside the Casino Café de Paris Monaco will be specially arranged to recreate the charm of traditional fairground celebrations while introducing a contemporary and spectacular visual approach.

The event will therefore go beyond live music, offering guests a succession of performances and experiences throughout the evening.

Adding to the convivial atmosphere will be a cocktail dinatoire, served directly in the gaming room as part of the evening’s programme.

Grand prize draw: more than €20,000 in prizes

One of the highlights of “Carnival Fortune” will be the grand prize draw, scheduled for 11:30 p.m. Four prizes will be awarded, with a total value of more than €20,000.

Among the prizes are an electric Vespa and an electric bicycle. The prize pool also includes an exclusive Monaco discovery package, featuring several experiences, including a panoramic experience, a wellness experience and a special dinner.

The fourth prize is a stay at Europa-Park.

To enter the draw, guests will receive a ticket upon arrival, which must be placed in the designated draw box. An important condition applies: participants must be present when the draw takes place in order to be eligible to win one of the prizes.

Information and access to the event

The number of places available for “Carnival Fortune” is limited and, according to the event information, reservations are not available.

For further information, guests can call +377 98 06 77 77 or visit the dedicated event page on the official Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer website.

The event will also result in a temporary change to the venue’s opening arrangements: the Casino Café de Paris will exceptionally be closed from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“Carnival Fortune” at Casino Café de Paris: date and time

The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, at the Casino Café de Paris in Monaco. Doors will open to the public at 9 p.m., while the grand prize draw featuring the four prizes is scheduled for 11:30 p.m.

The evening will bring together live music, artistic performances, immersive entertainment and interactive experiences, culminating in a prize draw with a total value of more than €20,000.