The 2025 French Carnival Celebrations are dazzling communities across the country with vibrant parades, family-friendly activities, and colorful festivities. Kicking off on March 1 and extending through March 3, towns from Nice to Ducos are immersing participants and spectators alike in the joy of this traditional event.
One of the highlights is the carnival taking place at Ducos on March 3, where the place des fêtes is set to transform from 9 AM to 6 PM, showcasing the essence of carnival culture with its Village du Carnaval. The program promises professional face painting, allowing attendees to transform themselves fully and partake as true carnival figures. Creative workshops are also on the agenda for both children and parents, enabling them to show off their imagination as they design masks, costumes, and carnival decorations.
The Grand Parade of the South is the star feature of the Ducos carnival, commencing at 2:30 PM and expected to draw over 15,000 attendees. This year's event proudly marks over 40 years of celebration by the Carnaval Sud Martinique association, with 17 groups participating, three of which are arriving from mainland France. The parade honors the rich tradition of carnival with performances and colorful floats.
Yannis Lucret, President of the association, indicates this year’s theme also includes the romantic tradition of the burlesque marriage, which features extravagant costumes and role reversals. This ritual adds layers of delight and participation to the carnival atmosphere as queens and representatives from various communes grace the procession.
Meanwhile, the Nice Carnival—a spectacle always awaited by many—concluded on March 1 with the ceremonial burning of the King of Oceans. This year's theme, Le Roi des Océans, captivated audiences as the parade featured intricately crafted floats and artistic displays celebrating marine life and conservation. Paul Watson, the founder of Sea Shepherd, visited the Nice Carnival and expressed his gratitude for being honored with the presence of his effigy on one of the floats. “I am very honored, very flattered. It's an honor for me,” Watson stated.
On another front, the carnival of Oucques-la-Joyeuse, celebrated on March 2, boasted sunshine and large crowds, making it one of the most popular editions to date. With families filling the streets, the atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm as children, many sporting colorful costumes, eagerly awaited the arrival of various festive floats.
One standout feature this year is the Sport theme, highlighted by floats depicting sports-related elements, such as skiing—albeit somewhat humorously juxtaposed against the flat landscapes of Beauce. Spectators were treated to vibrant music from the Vibraye street band, as well as local fans dancing and joining the festivities everywhere, with confetti flying through the air.
“We celebrate carnival from generation to generation,” recalled Didier, one local enthusiast. His grandchildren, Louison and Jeanne, joined him, showcasing the family tradition of participating together. The event cultivates unity, with families dressed up together, embodying the spirit of carnival through their festive attire.
Maubert-Fontaine also marked its presence on March 1, hosting families and community members who participated enthusiastically. The president of the organizing committee, Astrid Auvinet, expressed her joy at re-establishing this beloved event. “We are happy to bring back this event which hadn’t taken place for many years,” she celebrated. The day included children’s costume contests, musical charters, and festive snacks, ensuring it was not just about the floats but also about community togetherness.
The traditional rigodon dance—central to the Dunkerque Carnival—saw its own boisterous display at Place Jean-Bart, where revelers formed tightly-packed circles, creating lively scenes of jubilant movement under generous sunny skies.
These festivities not only create joy and excitement for participants but also draw attention to local heritage, cultural practices, and community engagement. The presence of significant local figures, events echoing the joy of tradition, and spirited participation from people of all ages, highlight the very essence of the 2025 French Carnival Celebrations: celebration, culture, and community spirit.
Such vibrant carnivals across France remind us of the importance of community gatherings and joyful traditions, offering not only entertainment but reinforcing social bonds. Whether one is right there amid the parade or following from afar, the spirit of carnival embodies unity and celebration, inviting all to partake.