From lively carnival floats (corsos) to citrus exhibitions, Menton celebrates its golden fruit from the 17th February to 3rd March 2024. This 90th celebration is "The Olympic Games from Antiquity to the Present Day", a nod to the organisation of the Paris Games!
With 140 tons of citrus, 18 tons of fruits per pattern, 8 kilometres of garlands and 400 speakers, Menton gives this celebration another touch of madness after 15 years of fame.
In 2023, the 89th edition of the city's flagship event was held under the theme 'Rock and Opera'. The 10 citrus-decorated floats that paraded through the corsos played their joyful part to the frenetic rhythms of dancers, brass bands and twirling folk groups. This year's theme has brought the Palais de l'Europe to life, with performances, children's carnivals, dance shows and theatrical performances taking place during and around the event.
The theme chosen by the organisers this year is "The Olympic Games from Antiquity to the Present"! It's the perfect way to start this Olympic year, which will be marked by the organisation of the Paris Games.
On the seafront, with day and night performances, visitors can marvel at their vertiginous structures, their profusion of colors and their wild dancers.
The magic of the decor, day and night
Inviting you to travel and dream while never leaving the Côte d'Azur, the Biovès gardens, the Fête du Citron, will also honour festive traditions from other places through exhibitions of citrus patterns.
When night falls, visitors can enjoy a dreamlike stroll through the gardens, where the lights and bewitching music are also beautifully illuminated.
Menton will also be staging shows, concerts and street entertainment during the 15-day event.
The biggest citrus festival
Menton’s golden fruit love affair began in 1928 following a flower and citrus exhibition in the gardens of the Riveira Palace Hotel. The festival was officially created in 1934, where the first parade took place the following year to help bring a new tourist era.
The cultivation of lemons has marked the city's history. Exported throughout the world in the 16th century, the yellow fruit is now recognized by a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) and represents the sunny city.
Each year, during the lemon season in mid-february, Menton pays tribute with exhibitions of citrus patterns in the Biovès gardens, illuminated at night. Citrus floats parade day in and day out. Each celebration has a theme along with shows, concerts and street entertainment.
By Charlotte Cabon
Journalist
