Event Dates
From: Saturday, February 15, 2025
To: Sunday, March 2, 2025
Nice Carnival 2025
More than 1 million people will descend upon the beautiful city of Nice for the annual Carnival festivities. It is one of the top 3 carnivals in the world.
Nice Carnival 2025, A spectacular series of parades and parties.
Every year Nice celebrates a colourful traditional Carnival in the modern era in its current form when the floats and tribunes made their appearance in 1873.
- Stay close to all the Carnival parades and parties at the Best Western Plus Hotel Massena Nice, a beautiful 4-star hotel, close to the old town.
Nice Carnival 2025
- Next Edition: Awaiting Dates – Saturday 15th February – Sunday 2nd March, 2025
- The 2025 theme is confirmed – King of the seas and oceans!
- Celebrate Carnival in one of Europe’s most stylish cities, complete with a dedicated gay Carnival parade! Famous for its stunning float creations of epic proportions, Nice Carnival has a unique theme each year, reflecting contemporary politics and world events.
- As well as the elaborate parades, other activities include a series of fun runs, Carnival Swim heats and street parties. Most people however come for the main parades, of which there are two, including a special gay parade.
The Carnival Parade – The Daytime Parade
- Awaiting dates – Typically held on the first Saturday and Sunday and the final Sunday of the event.
- On the Place Masséna and around the Jardin Albert 1er – More than 20 allegorical or burlesque floats parade through Nice, accompanied by live entertainment, street art and international musical groups.
- This special show takes place in the afternoon, from 14:30 and lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Each float tells a story, often in a comical or exaggerated way. An allegory is the expression of truths about human existence by means of symbolic figures and their actions.
- Stay right on the seafront with views of the Carnival at the Westminster Hotel & Spa Nice featuring stylish and spacious rooms in a historic building.
The Evening Parade – Carnival Parade of Lights
- Awaiting dates – Typically on the first Saturday and Sunday, the second Tuesday and the final Saturday of the event.
- The evening parades are held on each Saturday and Tuesday of the Carnival celebrations.
- Everything lights up, the visual spectacle becomes even more amazing, and the arts and music troupes that bring the route to life offer a real sound and light show.
- The parade kicks off at 8.30p m on the Place Masséna and lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes.
The Flower Parade
- Awaiting dates – Typically on the first and second Wednesday and first and Second Saturday of the event.
- The Flower Parade features Floats decorated with floral compositions. The parade takes place beside the sea, on the Promenade des Anglais. Parades run from 14:30 and last about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- The grace and elegance of these processions of floats reminds us of the power of the flowers and shows off the floral heritage of the region. A more poetic facet of the Carnival, inseparable from the other more ironic side.
- Stay at the Hyatt Regency Nice for some of the best balcony views of the Carnival festivities.
The Gay Carnival – Lou Queernaval
- Awaiting Dates – Typically on the first Friday of the event – Lou Queernaval
- Lou Queernaval is the first gay Carnival in France and typically takes place on the Friday during the second week of Nice Carnival. The parade kicks off at 8 pm from Place Masséna.
- Queernaval is the first gay carnival in France, rooted in the Nice tradition of carnival festivities. It’s a popular event open to all. Lou Queernaval is committed to promoting the values of sharing, inclusion and living together. Feathers, makeup, sequins, extravagant parades, colourful troupes and strange creatures set the carnival alight.
- For the ultimate Carnival celebration, stay at Le Negresco, one of the most famous hotels in France with period furniture fit for a queen, over the top service and high-end amenities.
Closing Ceremony
- Typically on the final day of the event – Expect an elaborate closing event from 22:45 along Promenade des Anglais.
Gay Nice
- Nice has one of the largest gay scenes in France, outside of Paris. The Carnival festivities attract French guys from around the country and international visitors from beyond!
- Most of the gay bars and clubs are located in the Old Town known as Vieux Nice. Other popular venues can be found along the Promenade. The Hotel Rossetti is rated “Superb” and is just 400m from the beach and right in the centre of the old town.
Recommended Hotels in Nice
The following hotels are all close to the carnival celebrations and the city’s lively gay scene:
Hotel Negresco, Hotel Suisse, Hotel Aston La Scala, Hôtel Massena
Recommended Hotels
Where to stay close to all the gay bars
Our top 4 selections with the best rates.
Where we stay!
Hyatt Regency, literally, built into Castle
Hill at the end of Promenade des Anglais.
Official Website
For further information and advice on
Nice Carnival, check out The Website
Gay Map of Nice
The gay bars in Nice are close to each other just a short walk, we have chosen Hotels close to the gay bars that have high reviews on booking.com our hotel partner .
Hôtel Negresco, 37, Promenade des Anglais, Carré d'Or, Les Baumettes, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, 06000, France
The famous Hotel Negresco, dating from the beginning of the 20th century, overlooks the beach and the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. From Louis XIII style to modern art, 5 centuries of history are exhibited throughout the hotel. Free Wifi access is provided and there is an on-site fitness centre. Each room and suite is decorated individually with period furniture and features air conditioning. Rooms are also equipped with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.
Le Méridien Nice, Promenade des Anglais, Quartier Jean-Médecin, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, 06046, France
Right on the Promenade des Anglais, this hotel faces the Mediterranean Sea. It is a few steps from the Old Town and offers a panoramic rooftop terrace and an outdoor swimming pool. The hotel was renovated in 2020. The modern guest rooms at Le Meridien Nice have views of the sea, the Albert 1st Gardens, or the hotel patio. Each is air conditioned and includes free WiFi access, a mini-bar and satellite TV, and most also feature a balcony.
Hôtel Suisse, 15, Quai Rauba Capèu, Vieux Nice, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, 06046, France
Set on the seafront in Nice's Old Town, Hotel Suisse is an Italian-style hotel offering a partnership with a local private beach, where meals and beverages can be enjoyed for an additional charge. Guests can access the private beach for a discounted rate. Air-conditioned guest rooms include a flat-screen TV, minibar and telephone, and most have panoramic sea views. Each room features a refined décor and has a private bathroom.
L'Hôtel Masséna, Rue Gioffredo, Quartier Jean-Médecin, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, 06046, France
Best Western Plus Hôtel Massena Nice is a design hotel in the heart of Nice, just 200 m from the beach. It offers air-conditioned rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV and free WiFi access. The property is with a 5-minute walk from Nice's Old Town and Massena Tram Stop.The guest rooms are equipped with a minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. Some rooms feature a balcony or a terrace. Most private bathrooms include bathrobes.
6 Rue du Pontin, 06300 Nice, France
The apartment has 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Located on the 5th floor, There is no an elevator.
4 Rue de l'Opéra, 06300 Nice, France
The apartment comes with 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, a microwave, a washing machine, a fridge and an oven. Bathroom with shower. Free WiFi
24 Rue Barillerie, 06300 Nice, France
The apartment provides air conditioning and free WiFi. The property includes a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, as well as a coffee machine. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels is offered. features sea and city views
39 Rue de la Préfecture, 06300 Nice, France
Located on the 2nd floor with no lift, this apartment is equipped with 3 bedrooms, a living room and a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave. Offering air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a bathroom and a washing machine.
8 Quai des États-Unis, Nice 06300
● Located along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, this beach offers a vibrant atmosphere.
● A pebble beach with both private and public sections.
● Castel Plage is a paid section known for its friendly vibes, providing sunbeds and umbrellas.
● Enjoy delicious meals at the beach restaurant.
Daily, 9 AM - 8 PM
Parking Saint-Laurent d'Eze, Nice 06360
● A beautiful stony beach boasting crystal-clear waters, situated between Nice and Monaco.
● Accessible via car or the LR100 bus, which offers stunning views of the Côte d'Azur.
● Features a gay and nudist-friendly area; follow an adventurous path to discover it.
Open year-round
7 Rue Gubernatis, Nice 06000
● A vibrant gay sauna spread across three floors, situated right in the heart of Nice.
● Offers a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
Daily 13:00 – 21:00
3 Rue Droite, Nice 06300
● A cozy LGBT-friendly cocktail and wine bar nestled in the charming Old Town of Nice.
● Perfect for a relaxed evening with friends over delicious drinks.
Tuesday-Sunday 17:00 – 24:00
16 Rue Gubernatis, Nice 06000
● A vibrant gay bar featuring exciting cabaret and drag shows.
● A lively spot to enjoy performances and a friendly atmosphere.
Sunday, Monday 18:00 – 00:30
10 Rue Defly, Nice 06000
● An LGBT bar known for its entertaining drag shows and fun karaoke nights.
● Ideal for those looking to sing their hearts out or enjoy a night of laughter.
Daily 18:00 – 02:30
3 Rue Lascaris, Nice 06300
● A fresh LGBTQ-oriented bar and concept store with a unique vibe.
● Hosts exhibitions, DJ sets, and various events for a dynamic experience.
Monday-Thursday 18:00 – 24:00; Friday, Saturday 18:00 – 02:00 Sunday 18:00 – 24:00
9 Rue Halévy, Nice 06000
● A gay-friendly bar featuring lively drag shows and entertaining bingo nights.
● Located in a bustling shopping street, perfect for a fun outing with friends.
Daily 17:00 – 02:00
6 Rue Eugène Emmanuel, Nice 06300
● A vibrant gay weekend club located in the heart of Nice.
● Enjoy thrilling drag shows and a lively atmosphere.
● Admission includes one drink, making it an excellent value for a fun night out.
Friday-Sunday 23:30 – 04:30
14 Rue Benoît Bunico, Nice 06300
● An exciting gay-oriented after-hours party in the lively Vieux Nice.
● Known for its energetic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
● Admission includes one drink to keep the party going.
Friday-Monday 04:30 – 10:00/11:00
8 Passage Emile Négrin, Nice 06000
● A popular gay club featuring dynamic drag shows and international DJs.
● A great place to dance the night away in a vibrant setting.
● Admission includes one drink, ensuring a festive experience.
Thursday-Sunday 24:00 – 06:00
6 Rue Raoul Bosio, Nice 06300
● A cozy nightclub and music bar nestled in the Old Town of Nice.
● Offers a laid-back vibe with free admission and a minimum drink requirement.
● Perfect for enjoying good music and a relaxed atmosphere.
Tuesday-Saturday 22:00 – 05:00; daily in summer
7 Rue Foncet, Nice 06000
● A vibrant gay cruising club featuring a bar, cabins, sling, and more.
● Perfect for a night of fun and adventure.
Thursday-Saturday 21:30 – 02:30
4 Rue Jean-Pierre Papon, Nice 06300
● A fetish-friendly gay cruising club that welcomes all.
● Admission is just 9 €, making it accessible for everyone.
Monday-Thursday 22:00 – 03:00; Friday, Saturday 22:00 – 04:00 Sunday 14:00 – 19:00 + 22:00 – 03:00
3 Rue Claudia, Nice 06000
● A unique gay cruise bar with a small labyrinth, cabins, sling, and video room.
● Enjoy themed nights with specific dress codes (naked, jockstrap, underwear).
● Admission is between 14-15 €, which includes the first drink.
Tuesday-Sunday 22:00 – 02:30
1 Rue Alberti, 06000 Nice, France
● One of the oldest gay bar on the French Riviera small but lots of fun
Daily from 6pm
9 Rue Bonaparte, 06300 Nice, France
● Nice gay Tapas bar & restaurant with drag shows and karaoke
Wednesday - Sunday (06:30ᴘᴍ- 00:30ᴘᴍ)
Recommended Hotels in Nice By Booking
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Nice that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Hotel Negresco
5 Star, Luxury
- 5-star, overlooking beach and Promenade, historic.
- Close to the gay district.
- air conditioning.
- Iconic luxury with centuries of art and history, perfect for a memorable Nice experience.
Hôtel Massena
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4-star, stylish design hotel, heart of Nice.
- A short walk to the gay bars.
- Flat-screen TV, free WiFi.
- Modern and stylish in Nice’s vibrant center, ideal for beach and city exploration.
Le Meridien Nice
4 Star, Great Value
- 4-star, Promenade des Anglais, rooftop terrace.
- Close to the gay district.
- Sea or garden views, mini-bar.
- Modern elegance on the seafront, with stunning views and excellent leisure facilities.
Hotel Suisse
4 Star, Location
- 4-star, Old Town seafront, Italian-style.
- Close to the gay district.
- Panoramic sea views.
- Charming and unique, offering discounted beach access and breathtaking Mediterranean vistas.
Video Of Nice Carnival
Carnaval de Nice 2018 : le Best Of
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