LEMON FESTIVAL
In terms of visitor numbers, the ‘Fête du Citron’ is the second largest public event on the Côte d’Azur, just after the Nice Carnival and ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix. As always, it will take place in Menton
from Saturday, 16th February until Wednesday, 5th March 2008. This year’s special theme is
“Islands of the World”. For many years increasing numbers of people come from all over the world
to enjoy this extraordinary citrus fruit festival. Over 200,000 visitors now come every year
to see what can be done just with citrus fruits …
Again this year visitors will be amazed by this unusual event – full of surprises and a hint of magic !
History of the Lemon Festival
The ‘Fête du Citron’ is a direct descendant of the carnivals that took place in the 1930s, this time featuring citrus fruits.
In the late 19th century, local hotelkeepers put forward the idea of a parade to enliven
the town of Menton during the winter season.
This event met with a delighted reception from both local people and the rich tourists
wintering on the French Riviera.
At this time kings, princes and artists used to stay in Menton’s sumptuous luxury hotels.
Queen Victoria herself was present at one of these carnivals, in 1882. The Lemon Festival follows in a long line of such carnivals
with its own, unique interpretation : floats and huge creatures entirely covered with oranges and lemons.
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NEW IDEAS For a number of years the carnival has also featured cartoon characters (Disney), comic book characters (such as Astérix in 1997), Perrault’s fairy stories (in 2001), carnivals from across the world, with Brazil as guest of honour (in 2006). This year visitors will be able to discover “Islands of the World”. |
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AROUND THE WORLD WITH CITRUS FRUITS In the Biovès gardens :
weekdays, 9 a.m to 6 p.m,
weekends, 9 a.m to 7 p.m |
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ILLUMINATED GARDENS After 8.30 pm you can tour the Biovès gardens and admire each display lighting up
as you pass through.
It’s a truly enchanting experience and you are sure to be amazed at the magical
play of light !
Saturdays 14th & 21st of February, Tuesdays 26th & 5th March, 2009 |
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Booking on line
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