All In Nice 2025: 7 Must-Attend Events And Ultimate Guide To The French Riviera's Hottest Year

Jan 10, 2026 • minute read

Contents

Nice, France, is gearing up for what is being hailed as its biggest year yet, and going "All In Nice" is the only way to experience it. As of December 20, 2025, the French Riviera city is not just a sun-drenched destination; it's a global hub for culture, music, and groundbreaking environmental discussions, thanks to an exceptional calendar of events centered around a crucial theme. This comprehensive guide provides the freshest details on the must-see festivals, conferences, and cultural shifts defining the Nice Côte d'Azur experience in 2025. The phrase "All In Nice" perfectly captures the city's all-inclusive commitment to a spectacular year, blending its classic Mediterranean charm with a modern focus on sustainability and major international gatherings. From the historic Promenade des Anglais to the vibrant cultural venues like the Théâtre de Verdure, the entire Alpes-Maritimes region is preparing for a massive influx of tourists and delegates, making early planning essential to secure your spot in the heart of the action.

The Year of the Sea Nice 2025: A Global Environmental Focus

The single most defining theme for the city in 2025 is the Year of the Sea Nice 2025, an exceptional, year-long program dedicated to showcasing and protecting the city's invaluable maritime heritage. This initiative goes far beyond typical tourism, weaving scientific, cultural, and educational events throughout the calendar to raise global awareness about ocean protection. This monumental focus is anchored by a high-stakes international conference, placing Nice at the center of the world's environmental stage.

The Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3)

The pinnacle of the Year of the Sea is the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), co-organized by France and Costa Rica. Scheduled to take place in Nice from June 9 to 13, 2025, this event will be a crucial follow-up to the 2017 conference and is seen as a key step in implementing the goals of the Paris Agreement (COP21) concerning the marine environment. * Dates: June 9–13, 2025 * Location: Nice, France * Goal: To drive action and political commitment toward the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans, seas, and marine resources. * Impact: The conference is expected to attract heads of state, scientists, NGOs, and industry leaders, making it a period of intense global focus on the French Riviera. The city has allocated significant financial support, including €350,000, to ensure the success of the Sea Year, funding various exhibitions, cultural events, and scientific conferences that will complement the UNOC3. This commitment solidifies Nice’s position as a committed destination for soft mobility and environmental stewardship.

7 Essential Nice Côte d'Azur Events You Cannot Miss in 2025

While the Year of the Sea provides the intellectual and environmental backbone of 2025, the French Riviera's vibrant cultural scene ensures there are spectacular events for every type of traveler. Going "All In Nice" means embracing this diverse calendar of festivals and gatherings.

1. Nice Carnival 2025

As one of the world's largest carnivals, the Nice Carnival is a colorful, historic spectacle that kicks off the major event calendar. It features extravagant floats, giant puppets, and the famous Flower Battles along the Promenade des Anglais. * Dates: February 11 – March 1, 2025 * Theme: (To be announced, but always a grand spectacle) * Vibe: Traditional, family-friendly, and a massive boost of color during the winter season.

2. Crossover Festival 2025

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the Crossover Festival is the city’s premier music event, known for its eclectic mix of electronic, hip-hop, and contemporary artists. It’s a multi-venue event that truly showcases the city’s modern cultural pulse. * Spring Dates: May 2–4, 2025, at the Théâtre de Verdure. * Autumn Dates: September 5–7, 2025, at Le 109, Nice. * Confirmed Artists (Partial Lineup): Sofiane Pamart, Arleen, Romano Vivarelli, Guts, Dimitri from Panisse, EEC Loops, 1pliké140, and H JeuneCrack.

3. La Kermesse Festival

For those ready to dive back into the electrifying vibe of the 2000s, La Kermesse Festival is a new but not-to-be-missed musical event. This festival is designed for nostalgia and high-energy performances. * Dates: July 4–6, 2025 * Focus: Throwback to the 2000s music scene. * Location: Nice

4. International Conferences and Business Events

Beyond UNOC3, Nice is a major hub for business and academic gatherings. The city hosts numerous international conferences throughout the year, especially at venues like the Palais Nikaia, attracting global professionals and academics. These events contribute significantly to the predicted event spend of over $118 million in the region.

5. Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron) in Menton

While not directly in Nice, the nearby town of Menton hosts this spectacular festival, which is an easy day trip and a staple of the Côte d'Azur event calendar. It features enormous structures made entirely of lemons and oranges. * Dates: Typically runs from mid-February to early March, coinciding with the Nice Carnival.

6. Cultural Exhibitions and Scientific Symposiums

As part of the Year of the Sea, the city's museums and cultural institutions are hosting special exhibitions and scientific symposiums dedicated to marine biology, history, and conservation. These events offer a deeper, more intellectual engagement with the city's heritage and its future.

7. Sporting Events and Marathons

The region frequently hosts major sporting events, including marathons and cycling races, leveraging the stunning backdrop of the French Riviera. The mild climate makes it an ideal location for international athletic competitions throughout the spring and autumn.

Navigating Nice: Essential Tips for the All-In Traveler

To truly go "All In Nice" in a year of such high-profile events, travelers need to be prepared for peak capacity, especially during the summer and major festival dates.

Accommodation and Booking

Given the UNOC3 conference in June and the summer festivals, hotel occupancy rates will be sustained and high. It is strongly recommended to book accommodation in Nice, Cannes, or other nearby towns in the Alpes-Maritimes well in advance. Consider the French Riviera Pass, available at Nice Tourism offices, which can offer value for accessing museums and local attractions.

Transportation and Soft Mobility

Nice is a highly walkable city, and the local government is heavily promoting soft mobility options. The tram system is excellent for navigating the city, and exploring the Côte d'Azur by train is a scenic and efficient way to visit neighboring gems like Monaco and Menton.

The Nice Vibe: Naughty or Nice?

While the city is famous for its history and elegance, the "all-in" spirit of Nice is also about embracing the vibrant, modern life. The atmosphere is generally amiable and delightful, characterized by a pleasant and kind local population. The blend of high culture, major global conferences, and energetic music festivals makes Nice a destination that is both sophisticated and lively—truly offering an all-inclusive experience for every visitor in 2025.

All In Nice 2025: 7 Must-Attend Events and Ultimate Guide to the French Riviera's Hottest Year

Details