The Carnival of Nice kicks off
February 10, 2017
The Carnival in Nice is one of the biggest carnivals in the world and attracts approximately one million visitors each year. It features glamorous shows with colorful parades.
The flower parade is a highlight. The battle of the flowers is a symbol of carnival festivities in Nice. Musicians accompany the colorful floats through the streets of the city. So-called flower queens and blossom princesses throw flowers to the onlookers.
Following last year's terror attack, this year the procession will not take its usual route along the Promenade des Anglais. Over 80 people were killed and many injured when a terrorist drove a truck into crowds celebrating France's national holiday on 14 July 2016.
The 2017 carnival processions will pass by the Place Masséna and the Promenade du Paillon. (www.nicecarnaval.com)
How Europe celebrates Carnival
Traditions tend to be cheeky and colorful, but they vary from country to country: Here are Carnival traditions from across Europe.