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The Flower Parade in Bormes-les-Mimosas

Le Corso fleuri de Bormes-les-Mimosas
Le Corso fleuri de Bormes-les-Mimosas

 

The word ‘corso’, as its etymology suggests, means ‘avenue’ in Italian. It was originally an occasion to celebrate a major event outdoors. Often associated with the carnival period marking the end of winter, the flower parade in Bormes-les-Mimosas is usually held on a weekend in February, a few days before Shrove Tuesday.

Traditions that endure despite everything

Whilst in the 17th century it was customary for the nobility to take their carriages out along the main avenue on Sundays, the tradition of flower-bedecked parades dates back to the time of the Côte d’Azur’s creation. The floats were originally carts decorated with flowers picked straight from the hillside and pulled by donkeys and mules, whereas today they are bicycles or cars pulled by tractors; needless to say, these days the flowers are grown commercially, especially as the Var department specialises in cut flowers.

Flower parade in Bormes-les-Mimoas
Flower parade in Bormes-les-Mimoas © Raphaël Dupouy

An organised programme

In collaboration with the Bormes Museum of History and Art, several events will take place at the museum, including a talk on Bormes’ historic flower parade and an introduction to cyanotype (an old photographic process) for children aged 10 and over. The Mimosa Market will also be open all day, featuring craftspeople, local producers and related merchandise, as well as entertainment and street musicians. You can also take part in decorating the mascots, which are different every year.image

Bormes-les-Mimosas Flower Parade
Bormes-les-Mimosas Flower Parade © Raphaël Dupouy

How much does it cost?

To attend the flower parade, admission is charged for those aged 12 and over. It is therefore free for under-12s. You can purchase a combined ticket for the parade and the Bormes Museum of History and Art.

The Bormes-les-Mimosas Flower Parade
The Bormes-les-Mimosas Flower Parade © Raphaël Dupouy

Which campsite should you stay at to watch the Flower Parade?

The Manjastre *** campsite welcomes you in the heart of the forest and offers 116 pitches and holiday rentals, as well as an outdoor swimming pool for sunny days. Outside the Flower Parade period, several campsites in Bormes-les-Mimosas welcome you for a holiday by the sea and in the sunshine, and to explore the beautiful Var department and the Côte d’Azur region.

 

 

 

 

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