Menton Celebrates 92nd Lemon Festival Amidst 2026 Municipal Campaign
MENTON, 17 February 2026 – The coastal town of Menton, affectionately known as the “Pearl of France,” is currently transformed into a vibrant citrus kingdom as the 92nd annual Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron) enters its first full week. Situated on the Franco-Italian border, the town is balancing its world-renowned cultural festivities with a sharpening political landscape ahead of the 2026 municipal elections.
The 92nd Fête du Citron: “Wonders of the Living World”
Running from 14 February to 1 March 2026, this year’s festival follows the theme “Merveilles du vivant” (Wonders of the Living World). The event, which first began in 1928 and was officially established in 1934, has seen the Biovès Gardens filled with massive sculptures crafted from thousands of lemons and oranges. The first “Golden Fruit Parade” (Corso des fruits d’or) took place on Sunday, 15 February, drawing thousands of international visitors to the Promenade du Soleil.
Local authorities have implemented specific traffic measures, particularly around exit 59 of the A8 motorway, to manage the influx of over 200,000 expected tourists. Upcoming highlights include the night parades scheduled for Thursday evenings and the final grand parade on 1 March.
Political Developments: The Race for the Mairie
While the citrus floats dominate the seafront, the local political scene is heating up. Louis Sarkozy, who is campaigning for the mayoralty of Menton in the 2026 elections, recently secured the support of David Lisnard’s “Nouvelle Énergie” party. Sarkozy has positioned himself as an outsider capable of revitalising the local right-wing coalition, though his candidacy continues to spark debate among residents regarding his lack of prior ties to the commune.
Geographic and Historical Context
Menton’s unique microclimate—often cited as the warmest on the Côte d’Azur—is the result of its geographic position, sheltered by the Maritime Alps to the north. This allows for the cultivation of the famous Menton lemon, which received PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status for its distinct flavour and high essential oil content.
Key Facts and Figures: Menton 2026
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Dates | 14 February – 1 March 2026 |
| Distance to Nice | 30 km |
| Distance to Genoa | 170 km |
| Historical Affiliation | Genoese influence; Grimaldi family (Monaco) until 1860 |
| Major Infrastructure | A8 Motorway (Exit 59), Menton-Garavan Station |
Recent Incidents
Emergency services were active last week following a vehicle fire in a residential garage on Rue Amiral Courbet on Thursday, 12 February. Additionally, a serious traffic accident involving a car and a heavy goods vehicle occurred on the A8 motorway on Saturday, 14 February, causing temporary disruptions for festival-goers travelling from the direction of Aix-en-Provence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme of the 2026 Menton Lemon Festival?
The theme for the 92nd edition is “Wonders of the Living World” (Merveilles du vivant), featuring citrus displays inspired by nature and biodiversity.
How do I get to the festival from Nice?
Visitors can reach Menton via the A8 motorway (Exit 59) or by the TER regional train service, which stops at both the main Menton station and the Menton-Garavan station near the Italian border.
Why is Menton called the “Pearl of France”?
The nickname refers to its exceptional beauty, mild winter climate, and its historic old town (Vieille Ville) which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea with distinct pastel-coloured architecture.