Menton Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron)
The Menton Lemon Festival, or Fête du Citron, is an annual event in Menton, France, celebrating the town's citrus harvest with vibrant parades, elaborate sculptures, and stunning displays made entirely of lemons and oranges. This unique festival draws thousands of visitors each year.
General Info
- The tradition began in 1934.
- Menton, France.
- The event takes place annually in February.
History
The Menton Lemon Festival, or Fête du Citron, was first held in 1934 as a celebration of Menton's thriving citrus industry. Located on the French Riviera, Menton benefits from a unique microclimate that allows for the cultivation of high-quality lemons, which have become a symbol of the town. The festival was initially conceived as a way to boost tourism during the winter months and showcase the region's agricultural bounty.
Over the years, the festival has grown into an elaborate and internationally renowned event. The centerpiece of the Fête du Citron is the collection of large-scale sculptures and displays made entirely of lemons and oranges. These creations, often themed around famous stories, cultures, or historical events, are meticulously designed and constructed by local artisans and volunteers. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of these citrus sculptures transform Menton into a fantastical landscape that delights visitors of all ages.
In addition to the citrus displays, the festival features parades with floats adorned with lemons and oranges, accompanied by musicians, dancers, and performers from around the world. The nighttime parades, known as Corsos Nocturnes, add a magical touch to the festivities with illuminated floats and fireworks. The festival also includes a marketplace where visitors can sample and purchase a variety of citrus products, from fresh fruit to jams, liqueurs, and artisanal crafts. The Menton Lemon Festival has become a key event in the region's cultural calendar, celebrating the town's heritage and creativity.
Interesting Facts
- Massive Citrus Use: The festival uses an astonishing amount of citrus fruits—around 140 tons of lemons and oranges are required to create the sculptures and floats each year. The fruits are carefully selected for their color and quality, ensuring the displays are both vibrant and durable.
- International Themes: Each year, the festival adopts a different theme, often inspired by various countries, cultures, or historical periods. Past themes have included "Cinecittà," "Broadway," and "Bollywood," allowing for a diverse and imaginative range of citrus creations.
- Environmental Concerns: While the festival is a major attraction, it has faced some environmental concerns regarding the use of such large quantities of fruit. Organizers have made efforts to address these issues by ensuring that the citrus fruits are repurposed or recycled after the festival, either as animal feed or compost, minimizing waste and promoting sustainability.
Other Parades in France
Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival (Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre)
The Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival is a vibrant annual event in Paris celebrating the wine harvest from the Montmartre vineyards. The festival features parades, wine tastings, concerts, and fireworks, attracting thousands of visitors.
Brest International Maritime Festival (Fêtes Maritimes de Brest)
The Brest International Maritime Festival is a major maritime event in France, showcasing a stunning array of traditional and modern ships, cultural exhibitions, and nautical demonstrations. Held every four years, it celebrates the rich maritime heritage of Brest and attracts visitors from around the world.
La Chandeleur (Candlemas)
La Chandeleur, also known as Candlemas, is a French festival celebrated on February 2nd with the tradition of making and eating crêpes. This day marks the presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the end of the Christmas season.