The countdown to Christmas is well and truly underway on the beautiful Côte d’Azur and the seasonal festivities are front and centre on this week’s agenda.
We have an action-packed programme for the next seven days with everything from artisanal craft markets to illuminated basilicas, Christmas concerts to bakery raves and cabarets to roller discos – you just can’t make this stuff up!
Whatever your tastes, you’ll definitely find something here to keep you occupied .
So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the week ahead.
– SATURDAY 13th DECEMBER –
The Christmas Markets and villages continue around the region in Nice | Cannes | Cannes La Bocca | Monaco | Menton | Antibes/Juan-les-Pins | Fréjus | St Laurent du Var | Vence | Saint Tropez and many other towns and villages.
Courtesy Team French Riviera
Team French Riviera returns with another Marché des Créateurs weekend, this time in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. This Christmas craft market will feature fashion, jewellery and accessories, ceramics, illustrations, home decor, beauty and children’s fashion. Taking place today from 11 am to 7pm at Espace Neptune. Free admission. Come support local artisans and find unique pieces made with passion. And get your Christmas shopping sorted at the same time!
Courtesy Opéra Nice Côte d’Azur
Come along to the Foyer Montserrat Caballé at the Opéra Nice Côte d’Azur at 11 am for Café Jazz and discover young jazz talents in a warm and inviting atmosphere. What better way to enjoy your Saturday morning than savoring a delicious coffee and enjoying pastries to the gentle sounds of jazz? Tickets cost €12 and may be reserved online, though they are selling out fast. If sold out, maybe throw yourself on the mercy of the box office by calling +33 (0)4 92 17 40 40
Courtesy Ville de Nice
The Carnaval de Nice may not be taking place until February, but the Ville de Nice have been holding auditions for participants for the Batailles des Fleurs during Carnaval. Those lucky enough to have been selected will be gathering in the Théâtre de Verdure in Nice today for orientations, interviews and getting measured up for their costumes. Vive la Reine!
Courtesy Mairie de Monaco
A concert presented by Zenzika, based on the graphic novel “An Ocean of Love” by Wilfrid Lupano and Grégory Panaccione. This show, suitable for all ages, tells the tender and whimsical story of an unexpected duo. The drawings projected on stage respect the rhythm and layout of the graphic novel, offering a visual immersion faithful to the original work. Without words, the narration is carried by the music of the group Zenzika, blending pop, jazz, traditional influences, and improvisation. A show that is at once funny, poetic, and musical, lasting 1 hour and 10 minutes. Taking place in the newly opened Médiathèque Caroline in Monaco at 2:30 pm. Free admission.
Courtesy Luminescence
The latest immersive experience, L’Odyssée Céleste, continues in the Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption in Nice. This incredible show, designed and executed by Luminiscence, transforms sacred architecture into living narrative through light, sound, and technology. There are two shows per night on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays only. Tickets start from €19 and may be reserved online (reduced rates also available).
Courtesy Mairie de Mouans-Sartoux
The 42nd Foire aux Santons continues in Mouans-Sartoux, running daily from 2 pm to 6 pm until Christmas Eve, 24th December. Taking place at Médiathèque cinéma La strada. Free admission.
Courtesy Ville de Cannes
There is a Concert de Noël at l’Eglise Notre-Dame d’Espérance in Le Suquet in Cannes at 5 pm this evening. Featuring the Chœur de Cannes under the baton of Patrick Clette, along with pianist Laurène Baldocchi, the concert will feature sacred music and Christmas Carols from all around France. Admission is €10 and free for under 16s. Further information available by calling +33 (0)б 21 04 54 84
Courtesy Mairie de Monaco
Come celebrate the opening of the Médiathèque Caroline in Monaco with a soirée d’ouverture featuring a vinyl bar. Free entry, open to all. From 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
Courtesy Gare Croisette
Our friends in Gare Croisette have another busy weekend lined up for us, starting with the Festival des Créateurs, running from 11 am to 10 pm today. Here you can discover products from local artistic and creative talent and is the ideal place for finding Christmas gifts for the whole family! There’s werewolf games from 4 – 7 pm with Le Hive. From 8:30 pm to 10 pm, there is an Afro dance show featuring Reia. The evening is rounded off with Méloa (10 pm to 4 am), another Soirée Twelty featuring Baïlé Funk and Afrobeats with Sena X Black Q..
Courtesy l’Orchestre Symphonique Azuréen
The Orchestre Symphonique Azuréen performs at 8 pm tonight at the Pôle Culturel Auguste Escoffier de Villeneuve-Loubet, with a concert featuring a selection of festive and other music. Tickets cost €15, with a reduced rate of €10 for students and those aged 12-18. Free admission for Under 12s. Tickets may be reserved online or purchased on the door.
Courtesy Panda-Events
Panda-Events, in collaboration with Le 109 and the city of Nice, presents Iration Steppas in concert. A true pillar of the British dub scene, Iration Steppas Sound System has been shaping the West Yorkshire bass music landscape for over 30 years. The support act is Red Echoes Sound System, three friends with a shared passion for dub – you’re going to absolutely love their sound system: four subwoofers will be blasting all night long. Taking place at Frigo 16 in Nice at 8 pm. Tickets available online.
– SUNDAY 14th DECEMBER –
Get ready for the best morning run and after-rave in Nice! There is an easy 5km run guided by the world champion Jean Baptiste Alaize from 10 am to 11 am – all levels welcome. Ths is followed by an after-run DJ set powered by Sporty & Dance at Pistache. Get your tickets now for what promises to be a great event! We’re hoping that it may be something like this…
Courtesy Princess Charlene Foundation of Monaco
On the occasion of the anniversary of the Princess Charlene Foundation of Monaco, the Box98 Monaco complex in partnership with the Foundation, is pleased to offer all children of the Principality as well as pupils educated in Monaco free access to all its activities from 11:00 am to 8:30 pm today. Admission will be free upon presentation of a Monégasque ID card or a certificate of education (postcard or certificate of education). The objective of this initiative is to offer young people a moment of sharing and togetherness, in accordance with the values carried by the Foundation.
Courtesy U GIRU DE NATALE
Monaco’s ultimate footrace, U Giru de Natale, takes place today. This is the 30th edition of the event and is open to all, with courses suitable for both children and adults. Come support the more than 2,000 other athletes as they run along the Grand Prix circuit and through the magnificent streets of Monaco. It’s a unique and festive event, don’t miss it!
Courtesy Team French Riviera
The Marché des Créateurs run by Team French Riviera continues at Espace Neptune in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat today from 10 am to 6 pm. Come support local artisans and maybe treat yourself to something nice or find those illusive Christmas presents. Free admission.
Video via Berliner Philharmoniker on YouTube
As part of the Grande Saison Concert Symphonique, the Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo welcomes conductor Marek Janowski and violinist Frank Peter Zimmermann, who will be performing Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in D Major, op. 61 and Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 in D Major, op. 73. The performance takes place at 6 pm in the Auditorium Rainier III. Tickets may be reserved online. The concert takes place with the support of les Amis de l’Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo.
Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate in Nice – photo © RIVIERA BUZZ
To mark the 500th anniversary of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina’s birth, the Chœur de l’Opéra de Nice invites you to an a cappella concert in homage to this master of Renaissance sacred music. In keeping with this, the concert will also feature contemporary compositions, creating a dialogue between tradition and modern creation. Taking place at Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate in Place Rossetti in Nice at 6pm. Tickets cost €10 to €20 and may be reserved online.
– MONDAY 15th DECEMBER-
Courtesy Antiquites Brocante Cannes
At the heart of the legendary Marché Forville in Cannes, the Monday flea market is a veritable treasure trove for passionate bargain hunters and those curious about great finds. Here you can find everything from tableware, luxury and vintage secondhand goods, to contemporary art and vintage vinyl. Whether you’re a collector, art lover, vintage fan, or simply strolling through Cannes, don’t miss this authentic event every Monday at the foot of Le Suquet!
– TUESDAY 16th DECEMBER –
Courtesy Fight AIDS Monaco
The chic Marius Restaurant becomes Monaco’s most glamorous destination for a spectacular evening in support of Fight AIDS Monaco with Cabaret FAM. This is not just another show, Cabaret FAM is a full-scale immersive experience. Expect modern cabaret energy, close-up performance, and a venue transformed into an intimate lounge with atmospheric lighting, signature cocktails, and à la carte dining. Starting at 6:30 pm, tickets cost €40 and may be reserved online.
– WEDNESDAY 17th DECEMBER –
Courtesy Ville de Nice
The 2026 Carnaval de Nice takes place from the 11th February to 1st March, 2026. The ticket office opens at 10 am today. Vive la Reine!
Courtesy Département des Alpes-Maritimes
As part of the Brigitte, Mylène & Michèle, The Little Darlings of the Côte d’Azur exhibition at the Lympia departmental cultural space, the Cinéma Jean-Paul Belmondo in Nice invites you to an exceptional screening of Brigitte Bardot’s last film ’Histoire très bonne et très joyeuse de Colinot Trousse-Chemise (1973) by Nina Companeez at 6 pm this evening. There will also be a presentation and discussion with Henry-Jean Servat, curator of the exhibition. Free entry, subject to availability. Reservation by email belmondo@departement06.fr or directly at the box office.
Courtesy of Opéra de Nice
The Nutcracker returns to the Opéra de Nice for the first time in many years. For this new production, the renowned Benjamin Millepied offers his own bold and personal vision of this ballet. This is the first performance in a run that lasts until 31st December and takes place at 8 pm. Tickets cost from €10 to €47 and may be reserved online. Be warned thought, they are selling out fast.
– THURSDAY 18th DECEMBER –
Courtesy Mairie de Monaco
If you are in Monaco, why not take some time and check out the Petit Marché du Larvotto, which takes place every Thursday from 8 am to 1 pm. Located on the Esplanade Joséphine Baker, near the Lartigue Fountain. A weekly event to complement the municipal markets, delighting foodies and fresh produce lovers.
Photo © RIVIERA BUZZ
Our friends in Masséna Around the World bookstore in Nice host their last event of 2025, an evening with author and journalist Tessa Williams. Tessa will be discussing two of her gorgeous coffee table books – Hotels of the Stars which features some of the most fascinating A-list haunts and hideaways and Cult Perfumes in which Tessa documents some twenty-five perfumeries and brands from around the world, taking us behind the scenes at each perfumery … Free entry, all welcome!
Courtesy Gare Croisette
Gare Croisette is back in Cannes this evening with an After-work event, a Blind test with prizes to be won, running from 6:30 pm to 8 pm. This is followed by a Soirée Stand Up with the Jamel Comedy Club. The support act will feature local talent by Bobar Comedy Club with one artist from the Jamel Comedy Club.
Courtesy Palais Nikaïa
Franceconcert presents Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana at the Palais Nikaïa in Nice at 8 pm tonight. One of the most famous masterpieces of the 20th century, this musical and choreographic extravaganza is guaranteed to wow audiences. Tickets cost from €46 to €71 and may be reserved online.
Video via Jalapeno Records on YouTube
The Thursday Live Sessions are back at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco. Tonight we have Wolfgang Valbrun, born and raised in the United States. The French-American of Haitian origin moved frequently with his mother before settling in Paris as a teenager. He draws his inspiration from Bob Marley, Billy Joel, Elton John, Bobby McFerrin, Graces Jones, and Charles Aznavour, “all infused with a touch of Kompa,” a music and dance of Haitian origin. There is an apéromix from 6:30 pm and the live music starts at 8:30 pm. Free admission but you must reserve your table by calling +377 9999 3000.
– FRIDAY 19th DECEMBER –
Courtesy Ville de Villeneuve-Loubet
The Marina in Villeneuve-Loubet is entering festive party mode this weekend. Starting today, there will be the lighting of the Christmas tree, Christmas carols, mulled wine, an open mic night and other activities. Running from 5:30 pm to 9 pm. Further information available by calling +33 (0)6 66 59 01 57 or emailing fiona.communication@gmail.com
Courtesy Gare Croisette
More from Gare Croisette in Cannes this evening, starting with the Picon Show, running from 6:30 to 8 pm. This is followed by a beer pong tournament organised by Le Hive. Rounding off the evening, we have Amapiano & Afrobeats Lovers from 10 pm – 4 am, a soirée by Melpote Productions with Sena.
Courtesy Palais Nikaïa
To mark the 110th anniversary of La Môme, the biggest musical tribute to Edith Piaf will be touring all the major venues in France for the first time. Piaf! Le Spectacle arrives at the Palais Nikaïa tonight at 8 pm. Tickets cost from €38 to €57 and may be reserved online.
Photo courtesy Académie Princesse Grace; © Alice Blangero
Since 2009, the Princess Grace Academy has undergone a transformation, becoming the Dance School for les Ballets de Monte-Carlo Dance School, To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Académie Princesse Grace, the public will have the chance to delve into the repertoire of works created for the Academy over the past 16 years, during which renowned figures in the world of dance have come to work in its studios. More motivated than ever, the young dancers are preparing to unleash the full extent of their talent to make this celebration a unique and memorable moment in the school’s history. Taking place at 7:30 pm at the Salle Prince Pierre in the Grimaldi Forum Monaco. Tickets may be reserved online.
Courtesy Panda-Events
Panda-Events, in collaboration with Le 109 and the City of Nice, advise you to grab your best skates and start warming up because ROLLER DISCO IS BACK! Between karaoke, a beauty corner, a craft market, and food trucks, the evening promises to be unforgettable. Secure your spot: it’s FREE, but you’ll need your ticket to set the dance floor on fire all night long. Running from 6 pm to 2 am at Le 109 in Nice.
– OTHER EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS –
Courtesy Nice Jazz Festival / Ville de Nice
The 2026 Nice Jazz Festival may be eight months away (23 – 26 July, 2026) but intial ticket sales are now open. Early bird passes costing €120 are available online now but not for much longer!
There is plenty going on in the world of theatre around the region. The Anthéa in Antibes has an amazing programme of shows and performances lined up for the 2025/’26 season. The Théâtre National de Nice also has an impressive line-up for the season as does the Théâtre de la Cité in Nice who have a very busy programme.
Courtesy MBA Draguignan
There are also plenty of excellent exhibitions going on throughout the region.
Be sure to check out our roundups of the must-see exhibitions in Nice | Monaco | Cannes
Have a great week, wherever you find yourself!
Lead image © RIVIERA BUZZ; all other images/photos as credited
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