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The Menton lemon festival, a touch of madness!

Every year, in the heart of the French Riviera, Menton transforms into an ephemeral kingdom of color and fragrance when the famous Lemon Festival begins. From February 14th to March 1st, 2026, the city is adorned with monumental sculptures and lavishly decorated floats, where the gold and yellow of lemons compete with the deep blue of the Mediterranean.

Recognized worldwide and a true jewel of France’s intangible cultural heritage, this festival draws over 200,000 visitors each year, enchanted by the bold creativity and festive energy that fill the streets of Menton.

A Fragrant and Magical World

The Lemon Festival is far more than a simple exhibition: it is a living spectacle, where fruits become works of art and imagination knows no bounds. In the Jardins Biovès, gigantic creations made from thousands of citrus fruits tell a new story every year.

For 2026, the chosen theme is “The Wonders of Life”: a tribute to nature, its diversity, and infinite beauty, where flowers, animals, and plants intertwine in a luminous and sensory setting. Every step in the garden invites daydreaming and contemplation.

Ville de Menton
© Ville de Menton

Highlights of the 2026 Edition

The Lemon Festival unfolds its splendor with 10 magnificent floats, involving 400 participants to create a lively and abundant spectacle. Each year, the event draws an average of 240,000 spectators, eager to admire this explosion of color and creativity.

  • Golden Fruit Parades: on Sundays February 15th and 22nd, and March 1st, Menton pulses with flamboyant parades, accompanied by fanfares and dancers in dazzling costumes.
  • Night Parades: on Thursdays February 19th and 26th, the streets take on a magical dimension, with spectacular illuminations and a breathtaking grand finale featuring fireworks that light up the sky.
  • Exhibitions and Activities: from the display of citrus motifs to local crafts, as well as rare flower shows and creative workshops, every corner of Menton invites visitors to explore, discover, and delight their senses.
2023
2023© @Fête du citron

A Citrus-Scented Journey Through the City

Walking through Menton during the festival means breathing in the scent of lemons, admiring monumental sculptures, and taking part in gourmet workshops. The event also allows visitors to explore the Winter Garden, which will highlight the elegance of orchids, true jewels of nature. Gourmet treats and artisanal objects around the garden are offered to extend the sensory experience.

Food lovers are not forgotten: local specialties and lemon-inspired creations delight the palate, while photography enthusiasts capture the magic of each motif and every play of light.

Ville de Menton
© Ville de Menton

Practical Information & Tips

  • Dates: February 14th – March 1st, 2026.
  • Entry & Tickets: the Jardins Biovès are freely accessible, but parades and floats require tickets, available online or on-site.
  • Transport: it is recommended to use trains or local shuttles to avoid traffic and limited parking.
  • Animals: not allowed on parade routes or in certain exhibitions.
  • Accommodation: find all nearby campsites close to Menton.
  • Ville de Menton
    © Ville de Menton

Why Visit?

The Lemon Festival is more than just an event: it is a celebration of joy, color, and creativity, a suspended moment where art and nature meet, allowing young and old alike to be amazed and inspired. Menton, with its sunlit streets and fragrant gardens, becomes, for a few days, the world capital of citrus and fantasy.

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