Preparations for the 2025 Carnival are well underway, with community workshops and events being organized across various locations including Vic-en-Bigorre and Paris. The scene is vibrant as locals gather to contribute to the exciting festivities, which aim to revive traditional celebrations.
Kickstarting the activities, the Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture (MJC) of Vic has initiated workshops for crafting floats for the carnival. Participants are pouring their hearts and creativity, working side by side to breathe life back to this historic event. The workshops commenced during the first week of the winter holidays, inviting volunteers, families, and artists to join the fun. "Des artistes s’affairent ici et là, sur des établis ou au sol" (Artists are busy here and there, on workbenches or on the floor), reported from the scenes of the workshops where the vibrant energy of collaboration fills the air.
Integral to this year’s carnival festivities is the float, the heart of any cavalcade. Traditionally held within various districts of Vic, this year’s preparations are hosted at the Maison Moustache, where the creative buzz rings loud. Past participants fondly share memories of their youth spent at previous carnivals, and now they, along with their children, are rekindling those joyous moments. With joyful decorations and lively colors, everyone is participating enthusiastically—cutting materials, painting, and sharing stories of times gone by.
Simultaneously, the Paris Carnival has planned for its remarkable festivities, set for March 4, 2025, just two days before the grand Mardi Gras celebrations. All under the captivating theme of "Le thème du carnaval de Paris 2025 : Amour, paix et joie" (The theme of the Paris carnival 2025: Love, peace, and joy) as reported by Le Parisien Etudiant. With the parade starting from Place Gambetta around 2 PM, participants can expect to enjoy colorful costumes till the celebrations wind down at 8 PM at Place de la République.
Last year’s event saw participation soar beyond 4,000 people, hinting at this year’s anticipated turnout. The aura of excitement grows as people organize themselves for the informal yet spirited event. The Paris Carnival thrives on its volunteer-led model, encouraging creative freedom and self-management. All who wish to take part can join freely, underscoring the carnival’s inclusive nature.
Those preparing their children for the celebrations also have the chance to explore new costume offerings, with stores like Lidl showcasing affordable options. For merely €9.99, kids can don imaginative costumes ranging from mermaids to ninjas, ready to embrace the spirit of adventure during the carnival.
The elaborate preparations and familial engagement bring forth cherished traditions leading to the celebratory days. Both Vic-en-Bigorre's workshop atmosphere and the festive spirit echoing through Paris's streets offer glimpses of joy and togetherness. With colorful floats, breathtaking costumes, and jubilant communities ready to party, the 2025 Carnival is shaping up to be one for the record books!