This year, the Menton Lemon Festival takes us into a fascinating universe with its 2026 theme: “Wonders of Life.” Animals are truly in the spotlight! In the Biovès Gardens, visitors can discover impressive sculptures representing majestic creatures, exotic species, marine and land animals… all entirely made from lemons and oranges.

And let me tell you sincerely: we are in the final days to enjoy the Menton Lemon Festival. The structures are magnificent, perfectly highlighted, and the atmosphere is especially pleasant at this stage of the festival. It’s the perfect moment to admire these ephemeral works before they are dismantled.

Few visitors know that this festival has existed since 1934. At that time, Menton was already renowned for the exceptional quality of its lemons. The city produced large quantities of citrus fruits and exported them throughout Europe. To promote this local wealth and invigorate the winter season, the municipality created an event centered on lemons. What began as a simple exhibition of citrus fruits and flowers has, over the decades, become one of the largest events on the French Riviera.

Today, about 140 tons of citrus fruits are needed to create all the decorations and floats. Yes, 140 tons! The fruits are attached one by one to metal structures. It’s a colossal, meticulous, almost artisanal work on a grand scale. When I guide visitors, I always advise them to get close to observe the details: each lemon is carefully positioned to create volume and color nuances.

With the theme “Wonders of Life,” creativity is particularly evident this year. The animals almost seem to come alive under the Mediterranean sun. The late-winter light enhances the yellow and orange hues, and the delicate scent of citrus fills the air. It’s both a visual and sensory experience.

The Menton Lemon Festival isn’t limited to the Biovès Gardens. The famous Corsos of the Golden Fruits are unmissable moments. Citrus-decorated floats parade along the seafront, accompanied by dancers, musicians, and artists from various backgrounds.

With the theme “Wonders of Life,” animals also appear on the floats: impressive creatures, wild or marine silhouettes take shape in lemons and oranges. During the nighttime parades, the illuminated structures create a magical spectacle against the backdrop of the Mediterranean.

And since we are in the last days of the festival, the atmosphere is particularly pleasant. Visitors fully enjoy the installations, take their time photographing the animal sculptures, and sit at terraces to savor the moment. There is a real sense of serenity at this stage of the event.

The city of Menton itself is worth exploring. Old Menton, with its pastel façades and steep streets, offers a typically Mediterranean setting. In March, the light is magnificent, and it’s easy to combine the festival visit with a stroll along the seafront.

The Menton Lemon Festival is also a celebration of taste. The Menton lemon is famous for its intense fragrance and unique sweetness. During the festival, local producers and artisans offer numerous citrus-based specialties.

Visitors can enjoy artisanal limoncello, lemon jams, but also bitter and sweet orange preserves. Stalls are filled with homemade products: syrups, pastries, flavored shortbreads… It’s the perfect opportunity to take home a tasty souvenir.

I always like to remind people that this festival was born from an agricultural product, local expertise, and a desire to highlight a unique identity. Since 1934, the tradition has modernized without losing its soul. The people of Menton are deeply attached to it.

In a few days, the 140 tons of citrus fruits will be removed, the sculptures dismantled, and the city will return to its calm. That’s the magic of this event: spectacular, yet temporary.

If you’re wondering what to do on the French Riviera right now, the last days of the Menton Lemon Festival are a wonderful opportunity. Between the animal sculptures of the “Wonders of Life” theme, the festive parades, and the citrus flavors, everything comes together for a bright and truly Mediterranean experience.

And I can assure you: every year, those who come leave amazed by this explosion of colors, scents, and creativity.