Menton, France ()
When you think of the French Riviera what comes to mind? Many people think of Nice, Cannes and Monaco. Not many people know of Menton and its Fête Du Citron. So, when my husband and I decided to spend a week in Menton to celebrate my birthday, I knew we were in for a real treat. Menton is located close to the Italian Border. For us it is only five hours away from Vicenza, Italy, making it an easy drive and a close destination. It borders the southeastern end of the Alpes-Maritimes Mountain range along the borders of Italy and Monaco.
Menton is known for its annual Fête Du Citron. This is a celebration that marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. This celebration happens every February and if you are lucky enough to get tickets for the parade, you’ll be in for a real treat. If you plan accordingly, you can even attend Carnivale in Nice.
What is the Fête Du Citron?
In 1875, the first parade won over locals, artists and hotel guests who wanted to celebrate while visiting the French Riviera. The story goes that a group of hotel owners decided to host a parade for rich guests visiting from colder climates. Often doctors would prescribe the French Riviera as an antidote to the dreariness one would feel in Paris or London. Rightfully so, the region sees about 300 days of sunshine a year!
It just so happened that Menton was the lemon capital of Europe in the 19th Century. Although lemons did not appear in the carnival until 1929. In 1934, February became the official start date for the Fête du Citron. Every year the theme is different, and this year the theme was in honor of the Olympics. Over 250,000 people flock to this festival to take in the atmosphere and take sight of the floats that are made up of citrus fruits.
While Menton is known for the Menton Lemon. The lemons used are not the lemons grown in Menton. Menton Lemon is a rare product that is protected by a Protected Geographical Indication. Approximately 180 tons of citrus fruits are brought in from all over the world and 1,000,000 elastic bands are required. There are approximately 15 tons of metal that make up the float’s frames. If you are wondering, those citrus fruits used for the floats are sold at local markets after the celebration for a discounted price.
Menton Lemon Festival (Kimberly Kephart)
Jardin Bioves is the central display area for many of the sculptures and you’ll find a daily market with local vendors. The sculptures are set up against a beautiful backdrop of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place to take an evening and morning walk.
If you want to attend the parade, it’s wise to check the dates. There are limited days, but you can purchase tickets online months in advance. Seated tickets go quickly and if you aren’t able to secure a seated ticket, you’ll be standing during a two-hour parade, which for me was fine as it was an absolute blast! Standing tickets are currently €16.00.
For tickets and more information visit www.fete-du-citron.com
Kimberly is a travel blogger, and you can read more about her adventures at www.kimberlykepharttravels.com.
