A historic date to celebrate, a tradition to celebrate, a good meal to share or a sporting event to experience intensely… In France, whatever the season or month of the year, there is always something going on! From the Nice Carnival on the Côte d’Azur in February to the oldest Christmas market in Strasbourg in Alsace in December, not forgetting the Tour de France cycling race in July, check out our calendar of major events not to be missed.

The Nice Carnival is one of the largest events organised on the French Riviera, attracting over 1 million visitors. It is one of the most famous carnivals in the world alongside the Rio de Janeiro and Venice Carnivals. The colourful event takes place during a two-week period in February. This time of the year offers a great opportunity to discover Nice and the French Riviera which enjoy a mild weather compared to the rest of France.

The Festival of Lights in Lyon (“Fêtes des Lumières” in French) is the most awaited public event in the Rhône-Alpes region and draws several million people onto the illuminated streets of the city. For locals and tourists alike, this celebration of light unveils the architectural treasures of the city unexpectedly through the illuminating of monuments, streets, hills and river banks.

Arguably the most prestigious film festival in the world, the Film Festival was founded in 1946 in the city of Cannes on the French Riviera. Famous film directors are usually designated as Presidents of the Jury. The film festival has become a strategic showcase for French and European films. The highest prize awarded at the festival is the Palme d’Or (Golden Palm).

The most Italianate and warmest town on the French Riviera has become famous for its colourful Lemon Festival. A major event on the French Riviera, the celebration attracts no less than 230,000 visitors in Menton each February who marvel at the impressive sculptures and parades.