The Most Fun Carnival in French-Speaking Switzerland: Estavayer-le-Lac 2026” 🎉

Описание: 🎭 Carnival in Estavayer-le-Lac

The Carnaval d’Estavayer is a small, local celebration typical of the French-speaking part of Switzerland. It’s not as large as the famous Basel Fasnacht, but it has a warm, community-focused atmosphere.

📅 When It Takes Place
• Usually in February or early March
• Held just before the beginning of Lent
• Dates vary each year depending on the Easter calendar

🎉 Main Features
• Masked parade through the old town
Local associations, schools, and community groups participate.
• Guggenmusik bands
Brass bands in colorful costumes playing loud, festive music — a key Swiss carnival tradition.
• Satirical elements
Costumes and performances often humorously comment on local events and politics.
• Family activities
Children’s events during the daytime.
• Evening parties and carnival balls
Celebrations continue in community halls, restaurants, and bars.

🍷 Atmosphere
• Friendly and intimate
• Strong participation from local residents
• Traditional food and regional wine are often part of the festivities

1. Nice Carnival

Dates: February 11 – March 1, 2026
• One of Europe’s largest carnivals, lasting about three weeks.
• Famous for giant flower floats and sculptures throughout the city.
• Evening parades feature music, dancing, and fire shows.

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2. Menton Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron)

Dates: February 14 – March 1, 2026
• Known for huge sculptures made of lemons and oranges.
• Each year has a new theme inspired by stories or famous characters.
• Parades include music, dancing, and street performances.

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3. Carnaval de Dunkerque

Dates: January 3 – April 12/18, 2026 (main events Feb 15–17, 2026)
• Traditional port carnival with a maritime theme.
• Participants wear colorful costumes and striped shirts.
• The finale includes singing sea shanties and the symbolic “kidnapping of a sailor.”

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4. Granville Carnival

Dates: February 13 – 17, 2026
• One of France’s oldest carnivals with a maritime history.
• Features giant puppets, orchestras, and colorful floats.
• Evening events include costume balls and street theater.

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5. Carnaval de Limoux

Dates: January 10 – March 22, 2026 (weekends)
• One of the longest-running carnivals in France — about 3 months.
• Features traditional masks and ancient rituals.
• Includes musical parades, theatrical performances, and folk games.

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6. Annecy Carnival

Dates: Late February – Early March 2026 (approx.)
• Celebrated in the “Venice of the Alps” with canals and a historic city center.
• Parades feature music, dancing, and colorful costumes.
• Family-friendly events include creative workshops and performances.

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7. Paris Carnival

Dates: February – March 2026 (exact dates tbc)
• Modern urban carnival with street parades and theatrical performances.
• Includes masked balls, costume parades, and music.
• Attracts tourists by blending historical and contemporary traditions.

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8. Martigues Carnival

Dates: February 2026 (est.)
• Held in the “Provençal Venice” of France.
• Includes costume parades and boat processions along the canals.
• Focuses on music, dance, and street theater.

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9. Albi Carnival

Dates: February – March 2026 (est.)
• Famous for local folk traditions and performances.
• Parades involve music and dancing from students and residents.
• Attention is given to historical-style masks and costumes.

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10. Vittel Carnival

Dates: February 2026 (est.)
• Small but colorful regional carnival.
• Known for festive parades with local music groups.
• Popular with families and children due to daytime events.