Top Annual Events in Nice
Nice is the capital of the French Riviera and hosts tons of annual events for tourists to attend. From music, to sports, and film, there’s something for everyone in Nice.
Nice isn’t just all about the beaches and bars. The capital of the French Riviera hosts some pretty incredible annual events both locals and tourists alike love to attend. From glitzy film festivals, to high endurance sport events, and amazing music festivals, there’s no shortage of festive spirit here. Read on to discover the top annual events in Nice!
Top Annual Events in Nice
Nice Jazz Festival
Where: Nice, France
When: Mid July
If you consider yourself a fan of the smooth, velvety sound of this genre, then you might know that the Nice Jazz Festival was the first in the world. Since 1948, the world’s best Jazz musicians and top fans flock to the French Riviera to attend one of the top annual events in Nice.
Past performers have included Charles Lloyd, The Roots, Ibrahim Maalouf, Lauryn Hill, and so many more. The festival hosts two stages, and venues throughout the city how events throughout the week. All access passes start at around 100€, but this is a steal when considering the talents at the event. But if you’re looking to attend the fringe events in Nice, there are tons you can attend for free around the city.
Monaco Grand Prix
Where: Monaco
When: Last Weekend in May
El Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most famous and glamorous Formula 1 events in the world. The event has been been taking place since 1929, and attracts enthusiasts year after year. And while this event isn’t exactly in Nice, many attendees opt to stay here as Monaco is only a 30 min journey away.
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the top annual events in Nice, and you don’t have to be a millionaire to experience it. Tickets to the qualifying rounds start at just 32€, which is rather affordable for such a spectacular event. Seats with these tickets gives you access to the grass on the Rocher, just under the Palais de Princier. But if you have a bit of room to splurge, you can get tickets for premier seats at the main events along the tracks. But we don’t use the term splurge lightly as these tickets can range anywhere from 200€, all the way up to 6000€.
Monaco Grand Prix – Photo by Rhiannon Elliott on Unsplash
Fête de la Musique
Where: Nice, France
When: June 21st
This top annual event is actually celebrated across the country, but we think the celebrations in Nice are the best. Fête de la Musique is a free event where musicians crowd the streets to play a variety of genres. It’s a great opportunity to get in touch with the French music scene, and the event is really just like a massive street party. It’s a great way to kick off the summer season on the French Riviera.
Cannes Film Festival
Where: Cannes, France
When: Mid May
Since 1946, the Cannes Film Festival has welcomed the world’s biggest film stars and fans. So naturally it had to be included on our list of the top annual events in Nice. And if you’re not a huge film buff, the glitz and glamour might be enough to attract you to Cannes.
The biggest draw at the Cannes Film Festival is definitely the Red Carpet Event at the Palais de Festivals. This is where you have the best chance of spotting some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. The festival sets aside a public gallery where you can watch the stars arrive one by one, but make sure you arrive early to get a spot.
The main events at the Palais is only for those in the industry, so you won’t be able to attend those screenings. However, there are tons of local cinemas which screen some films featured in the competition. A few of which are free! You can also attend free outdoor cinemas on the beach from the comfort of a deck chair.
Cannes Film Festival – Photo by Zhifei Zhou on Unsplash
Ironman Nice
Where: Usually mid June
When: Nice, France
IronMan is an international triathlon attracting some of the world’s toughest athletes, and Nice hosts an annual race. It’s considered one of the most exciting annual events in Nice, even if you’re not participating. Watching participants test their endurance in swimming, running, and cycling is entertaining and attracts thousands of spectators. And attending is free, so make a day of it and attend one of the top annual events in Nice.
Cannes International Fireworks Festival
Where: Cannes, France
When: Mid July – End of August
If you’re a fan of fireworks, then we suggest heading to to the Cannes International Fireworks Festival. Around 100,000 people come to see the worlds best pyro-technicians light up the night sky over the Bay of Cannes. And it’s not just any firework show: it’s a spectacular choreographed display orchestrated to specially sourced music. The festival is also free to attend, but get there early to get a good spot on the beach.
Cannes International Fireworks Festival
Where to Stay in Nice
Our top recommendation for accommodation in Nice is Villa St. Exupery Beach Hostel. Famous for being one of the most social and friendliest hostels in Nice, you’ll love being their guest. You can choose from dorms and private rooms, and can participate in a variety of activities hosted by the hostel. They also have one of the cheapest bars in Nice, and are only 20m from the city’s main square.
Top Annual Events in Nice
The capital of the French Riviera always has something going on, no matter what you’re in to. If you’re looking for more inspiration or helpful information for your vacation, check out more blog posts aquí. And for all the latest news at Famous Hostels, follow us or subscribe on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, y Youtube.
