From lively corsos to impressive displays of citrus fruit motifs, Menton is decked out in dazzling yellow once again this year to celebrate its iconic golden fruit. See you in February 2026 for another supercharged Lemon Festival.
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 during 15 days.
A look back at the 2025 edition
After a sporty 2024 edition with the theme ‘The Olympic Games from Antiquity to the Present Day’, heralding the holding of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it was space that took pride of place at the 91st edition of the Lemon Festival. A ‘Journey to the Stars’ in a nod to French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, who inspired the parade of citrus-decorated floats marching to the frenzied rhythms of dancers, brass bands and twirling folk groups.
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.
A stroll through the gardens and orchards around Menton
Lemon growing has left its mark on the town's history: exported all over the world in the 16th century, the yellow citrus fruit is now recognised by a PGI and symbolises the sunny town.
During your stay on the Côte d'Azur in winter, take a stroll through Menton's gardens (the Maria Serena garden, the Serre de la Madone garden or the Fontana Rosa garden), which offer guided tours throughout the Lemon Festival.
Other activities are available to find out more about Menton lemons. There are workshops on how to prune lemon trees and how to make a lemon tart. Walks around the citrus groves around Menton to meet local producers are also organised.
By Charlotte Cabon
Journaliste
