Fête du Citron Travel Guide: How to Experience Europe’s Lemon Festival in Menton

Looking for a winter getaway that’s anything but ordinary? Say hello to Menton’s Fete du Citron, a wildly imaginative citrus festival where oranges and lemons become art, the streets buzz with music and parades, and the French Riviera serves up its sunniest winter vibes. If you’re ready for something deliciously different, here’s exactly how to plan your visit to this zesty celebration.

What Happens at the Fête du Citron?

Insider Tip: Visit both the garden and a parade—they’re entirely different experiences!

How to Get to Menton

Avoid Stress: take the train and walk to the city center

Where to Buy Tickets

Tickets are released on the official festival site:

• Jardin Biovès Entry: Daytime access to citrus sculptures
• Corso des Fruits d’Or (Day Parade)
• Corso Nocturne (Night Parade): Floats lit up under the stars, often with fireworks

Important: Seated tickets sell out quickly, especially for the night parade. Grab them early!

A Zesty History of the Fête du Citron

Time to zest up our knowledge with a bit of history (see what I did there?).

The Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) has been adding a splash of color to Menton, France, since 1934.

It all started when hotel owners in the 1930s wanted to surprise their guests with a vibrant new event—and just like that, the Fête du Citron was born! But why lemons, you ask?

Well, Menton isn’t just another pretty town on the French Riviera; it’s blessed with a unique microclimate that makes it an ideal place for growing citrus, especially lemons.

And these aren’t just any lemons; they’re the famous Menton lemons—prized for their sweetness, rich aroma, and impressive size. They even hold IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée) status, meaning they are geographically protected and cannot be commercially grown outside the region. I discovered just how special they were when I realized I could eat a whole Menton lemon on its own—something I never thought possible!

However, there’s a surprising twist! The lemons and oranges used in the festival’s massive sculptures and parade floats aren’t actually from Menton. Because of their IGP status, the town outsources these citrus fruits from other countries to protect the local harvest. So while the festival celebrates the town’s lemon-growing heritage, the actual Menton lemons remain a rare and protected delicacy—one that you absolutely must taste while visiting!

Lean on the Menton Tourist office for a well-rounded visit!

Menton, Riviera & Merveilles Website

Why Lemons?

Menton has a unique microclimate perfect for lemon cultivation. Its prized lemons are IGP-protected and known for their sweetness and aroma.

But here’s the twist: the lemons used in the sculptures aren’t actually from Menton—they’re imported to protect the local harvest. The real Menton lemons? Try one fresh while you’re here—they’re so sweet, you can eat them like oranges.

Best Places to Stay in Menton (Book Early!)

Menton fills up fast, so secure your accommodation in advance:

• My Favorite: Appartamento Elegante in Villa Storica sul Mare (charming + scenic)
• Budget Pick: Hotel de Belgique
• Centrally Located: Hotel Chambord (walkable to events)
• Luxury Stay: Villa Genesis (sea views + elegance)

Use this map to have a look around Menton and find a place to stay!

Day Trips and Nearby Cities

• Nice to Menton: Easy and fast by train
• Monaco to Menton: Even closer
• Cannes to Menton: ~1 hour by train

If you’re staying elsewhere on the Riviera, Menton makes a perfect day trip during the festival.

FAQs About Fête du Citron

Is the festival family-friendly? Yes! Kids love the colorful floats and fruity themes.

What should I wear? Layers! February is mild but can swing between cool mornings and warm afternoons.

Should I visit during the day or night? Both if possible! Daytime shows off the sculpture detail, while the night parade adds sparkle and drama.

Do I need a ticket to walk around town? No. But ticketed events like the parades and sculpture garden are the main attractions.

Final Tips + Packing List

• Book hotels + tickets in advance
• Wear comfy shoes (you’ll walk a lot)
• Bring a refillable water bottle + portable charger
• Don’t skip the Menton lemon tart

Why You Should Go

The Fête du Citron isn’t just another festival—it’s a visual, cultural, and sensory celebration of one of France’s most beloved fruits. It’s where the Riviera’s charm meets artistic creativity and small-town magic. If you’re looking for a winter trip that stands out, this is it.

Book your ticket. Pack your camera. Bring your appetite for citrus and culture.