Events and Festivities on the French Riviera: Four Seasons of Discovery

—where art, music, sport, and local traditions intertwine.

From Nice to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, via Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Èze, the calendar brims with cultural highlights, rich heritage, and the inimitable Mediterranean art de vivre.

Here is a curated glimpse of the season’s standout moments—both iconic and discreet—that define daily life for those who have chosen—or dream—to make the French Riviera their home.

Spring: March to May — A Season of Renewal and Lightness

Spring on the Riviera is an invitation to curiosity, creativity, and the simple pleasure of wandering.

In April, take a coastal stroll amidst pines and sea breezes to discover an architectural gem: the Villa E-1027 by Eileen Gray and Le Corbusier’s Cabanon in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. This minimalist homage to modern architecture gazes serenely over the Mediterranean.

Every two years, Monaco pays tribute to the golden age of motoring with the Historic Grand Prix, raced on the legendary Formula 1 circuit. Iconic machines—Bugattis, Lotus Sevens, Ferrari Dinos—roar through the Principality in a most regal setting. No sooner has the dust settled than the modern Formula 1 Grand Prix sweeps in, electrifying the air from the paddocks to the palace balconies. 

No sooner has the dust settled than the Formula 1 Grand Prix ignites the Principality, with the Monaco E-Prix adding a sleek, electric pulse through its historic streets.

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

For one splendid weekend, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and its splendid gardens play host to a singular cultural fête: the Festival of Roses and Plants, an exquisite experience for the senses within this illustrious estate.

And, of course, each spring brings with it the timeless enchantment of the Cannes Film Festival. This cinematic grand affair continues to dazzle, innovate, and draw the world’s gaze to the radiant Croisette.

Summer: June to September — Between Sea and Light

As the sun asserts itself, the Riviera comes alive.

Nice Jazz Festival

In Nice, the renowned Nice Jazz Festival enlivens summer nights in the Jardins Albert Ier. Jazz, soul, electro, and rock reverberate under open skies, paying homage to legends from Nina Simone to Chet Baker.

In Menton, the Classical Music Festival graces the forecourt of the Saint-Michel Archange Basilica each evening, bathed in the glow of starlight above the sea.

Beaulieu-sur-Mer sparkles with the intimate charm of Beaulieu-la-nuit and Les Nocturnes de la Villa, enchanting soirées beneath a summer sky.

In Monaco, the Grimaldi Forum hosts its grand annual exhibition. Following the celebrated showcases of Monet and Turner, 2025 shall herald Colours!, a dazzling presentation of masterworks from the Centre Pompidou.

Autumn: October to November — Flavours, Traditions, and the Art of Living

As the crowds retreat, the golden hills and tranquil coast are revealed in a softer, golden light.

Régates Royales in Cannes

The Régates Royales gather the world's most elegant sailing yachts for a majestic and thrilling spectacle in the bay—four days of nautical grace featuring traditional sailboats, classic yachts, Tofinou, 5.5 Metre, Star, and Dragon classes.

The Mouans-Sartoux Book Festival welcomes over 300 authors from around the globe, in a warm and convivial setting nestled in the hinterland.

In Saint-Tropez, the famed Grande Braderie transforms the village’s narrow lanes into a paradise for bargain hunters and fashion aficionados. Around the same time, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez graces the harbour with a breathtaking regatta, where majestic yachts and timeless elegance converge in a celebration of nautical splendour.

And biennially, the village of Mougins becomes a haven for haute cuisine. Renowned chefs gather to share their passion, secrets, and sublime recipes with gourmands from near and far.

Winter: December to February — Seasonal Pleasures

Even in winter, nature enchants—where snowy peaks reflect the Mediterranean’s deep blues. The festive spirit is ever-present, complemented by the region’s gentle climate.

Christmas on the French Riviera

In local villages, Christmas is marked with tradition and authenticity: artisanal markets, live nativity scenes, and intimate concerts.

Festive dinners are a refined affair, enjoyed at the Riviera’s finest establishments—Château Eza, La Réserve de Beaulieu—where one dines beneath the stars.

To crown the year in style, the iconic musical CATS takes to the stage at the Monte-Carlo Opera until 31st December 2025—a touch of theatrical magic to welcome the new year.

All Year Round…

Major events punctuate the calendar—such as the Tour de France’s arrival in Nice or the Biennales de la Mer, where contemporary art, ecological dialogue, and maritime culture converge.

To live or invest on the French Riviera is to embrace a singular way of life—where beauty, dynamism, and culture meet. It is an ever-open invitation to wonder.

For those wishing to settle and fully experience the French Riviera, our property experts are at your service.