Anchored in the rich heritage of carnival festivities in Nice, Lou Queernaval, the inaugural gay carnival in France, has become a beloved event that embraces inclusivity and unity for all.

For those that may not know, “Lou” translates to “the” in Nissart, the regional dialect of Nice and Queernaval is self-explanatory.

Lou Queernaval stands out as a unique spectacle, featuring a dazzling array of drag queens and other various talented artists primarily from the region, and together, they convey a powerful universal message of love, sharing, and kindness.

The event is filled with an array of sights and sounds, a testament to the commitment of over 150 volunteer carnival workers, with many wearing extraordinary costumes, setting the stage for an exceptional evening centered around this year’s theme of the King of Pop Culture.

Since its inception in 2015, Lou Queernaval has garnered attention from spectators across France and around the globe. This one-of-a-kind event is free and offered by the Nice LGBTQIA+ community, in collaboration with the City of Nice and the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis.

Open to all, Lou Queernaval has rapidly evolved into a cherished tradition within the broader framework of the Nice Carnival that has been a part of the city’s history for the past 150+ years.

Lou Queernaval also serves as the kickoff to a weekend filled with sensational festivities as LGBTQ establishments hold various themed events and are filled with locals mingling with international visitors.

This year, the Queernaval celebration is scheduled for February 23, from 8:00 pm to 10:30 pm ending with a party on the parade route.

Book early for your free tickets.

Photo credits: Guillaume Eymard