Planning a wedding on the French Riviera is a dream for many couples, with its stunning coastline, charming towns, and luxurious ambiance. However, selecting the best dates for a wedding on the French Riviera requires careful consideration of local events that could impact your celebration. Between May and October, several major events in Nice, Cannes, and Monaco may affect venue availability, accommodation prices, and overall logistics. To help you navigate these considerations, we’ve compiled a list of dates you might want to avoid for your French Riviera wedding.
Major Events on the French Riviera to consider before setting your wedding date
Cannes Film Festival
Traditionally held in May, the Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious and well-attended events on the French Riviera. While the exact dates for 2026 have yet to be announced, it typically spans 12 days in mid-May. During this period, Cannes becomes a bustling hub for celebrities, media, and tourists, leading to crowded streets and limited availability of venues and accommodations.
Monaco Grand Prix
The Monaco Grand Prix is a highlight of the Formula One calendar, attracting motorsport enthusiasts from around the world. In 2026, the race is scheduled for the first full weekend in June. This would place the event from Friday, June 5, to Sunday, June 7. The influx of visitors during this time can make Monaco exceptionally busy, impacting hotel availability and local traffic.
Nice Jazz Festival
The Nice Jazz Festival is a renowned musical event that typically takes place in July. While the exact dates for 2026 are yet to be confirmed, it usually occurs in mid-July, featuring performances from international artists and drawing large crowds to the city. This can affect the availability of venues and accommodations in Nice during this period.
Monaco Yacht Show
The Monaco Yacht Show is an annual event that showcases luxury yachts and attracts affluent visitors from around the globe. It typically takes place in late September. The event leads to increased demand for accommodations and venues in Monaco, which could impact your wedding plans.
Cannes Yachting Festival
This premier yachting event typically occurs in early September, showcasing over 700 boats ranging from 5 to 50 meters. The festival attracts a large number of visitors and industry professionals, leading to increased demand for accommodations and event spaces in Cannes.
Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity
Held annually in mid to late June, Cannes Lions is a major global event for the advertising, PR, and creative industries. It attracts thousands of professionals from around the world, leading to high demand for hotels and event spaces in Cannes.
Public Holidays and Local Festivals to set your wedding date around
In addition to these major events, it’s important to be aware of French public holidays and local festivals that may influence your wedding planning:
- Labour Day (Fête du Travail): Friday, May 1, 2026.
- Victory in Europe Day (Fête de la Victoire): Friday, May 8, 2026.
- Bastille Day (Fête Nationale): Tuesday, July 14, 2026.
- Assumption Day (Assomption): Saturday, August 15, 2026.
These holidays often involve local celebrations, parades, and increased domestic travel, which can affect venue availability and accommodation pricing.
Recommendations for Choosing Your Wedding Date
To ensure a smooth and memorable French Riviera wedding, consider the following tips:
- Schedule Around Major Events: Aim to plan your wedding during periods when there are no significant events or public holidays to avoid logistical challenges and increased costs.
- Consult Local Event Calendars : Stay updated on event schedules, as dates can change, and new events may be announced.
- Work with a Local Wedding Planner: Partnering with a wedding planner who has in-depth knowledge of the French Riviera can help you navigate the French Riviera’s busy calendar, securing your guests’ transportation and accommodation well in advance as required.
Also, if you are planning your wedding on the French Riviera, do read our “Step by step guide to getting married in the South of France” over on the Perfectly Provence website!
At Et Voila Weddings, we specialize in creating bespoke weddings that reflect your unique vision. With our expertise and local insights, we’ll guide you in selecting the perfect date and crafting an unforgettable celebration on the French Riviera. Contact us to begin planning your dream wedding with a trusted French wedding expert or look into one of our French Riviera weddings HERE.
