Fête du Citron

A celebration of the golden fruit in the Pearl of France.

Origins of the Festival

The Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) is one of the most celebrated events on the French Riviera, attracting visitors from across the world every February and March. The festival was first held in 1934, born from a simple idea: Menton was already renowned for producing the finest lemons in Europe, with a unique sweetness and intensity of flavour that comes from the town's extraordinary microclimate. Locals decided to create a celebration that would bring light and colour to the winter months, and the Fête du Citron was born.

Today, the festival has grown into a spectacular event featuring enormous sculptures made from oranges and lemons, vibrant parades, night-time light shows, and the famous Jardins Biovès transformed into a citrus wonderland. Each year follows a different theme, with tonnes of fruit carefully arranged by skilled artisans to create dazzling works of art that line the gardens and parade routes.

The Legend of the Golden Fruit

Menton's connection to citrus runs deeper than commerce and climate. According to local legend, when Adam and Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden, they wandered far across the earth in search of a new paradise. Eventually, they arrived on the sun-drenched shores of what is now Menton, where the mild air, the shelter of the mountains, and the glimmering Mediterranean reminded them of the garden they had lost.

Determined to leave something of paradise behind, they planted the "golden fruit" — the lemon — in the fertile soil of Menton. The fruit flourished as nowhere else, its bright yellow skin reflecting the warmth of the sun and the richness of the land. To this day, the people of Menton honour that mythic gift. The Fête du Citron is not merely a harvest celebration; it is a homage to the idea that even after exile, beauty and abundance can take root again.

Maison des Agrumes — At the Heart of It All

Maison des Agrumes is perfectly positioned for experiencing the Fête du Citron. Located on the historic Rue Longue in the very heart of Menton's Vieille Ville (Old Town), the apartment sits within the narrow winding streets that form the soul of the festival. The main events at Jardins Biovès, the grand parades along the seafront, and the bustling night markets are all within a few minutes' walk.

Step outside the door and you are immediately immersed in the atmosphere: the scent of citrus in the air, the sound of music echoing through the medieval alleyways, and the sight of golden sculptures glowing in the winter sunlight. There is no better base from which to explore the festival, to wander early through the quiet old town before the crowds arrive, or to retreat for a rest between the parades and evening celebrations. When the streets are alive with colour and the whole town pays homage to the golden fruit, Maison des Agrumes places you right at the centre of the magic.