Photo by Jeremy Bourgouin courtesy of Flickr
Fireworks are a very big deal in Cannes, as the Riviera town hosts one of the world’s great firework competitions during the summer months. Teams from literally around the world compete for the main prize, which includes the honour to host the New Year’s Eve show. So the bar is set very high.
Fireworks on the Croisette
What can you expect? Well, a very grand spectacle. The show is held in the Bay of Cannes, which offers an almost perfect natural amphitheatre. The entire length of the Croisette is usually packed with spectators and most of the hotels along the Croisette and further back organise special dinners and the chance to watch the show from their balconies. It’s worth remembering that traffic before and after the event will be absolutely mad. So do try and use public transport and walk to the Croisette to save time.
IMPORTANT: Because there are works on the beach, the best views are from the Esplanade Favre Lebret (by the Palais) or from the Carlton onwards.
Another idea is to try and rent a spot on one of the boats that will watch the show from out in the bay.
Hotels along the Croisette include the Miramar, InterContinental Carlton and Majestic. You will also get good views from the Radisson Blu at the tip of the Old Port. Check for their dinner menus.
It’s worth knowing that the following day, on January 1, 2020, Juan-les-Pins will host its own firework show.
Other events taking place in Cannes on New Years Eve 2020 include:
- a show by the magician Dani Lary at the Palais des Festival
- the Christmas Village and skating rink on the Allées de la Liberté,
- the 23rd Reveillon des Stars, an annual gala event for charity held in the Palais des Festivals on December 31.
- the South of France English Theatre New Year dinner and dance in Le Cannet
- There will also be a Christmas Parade down the Rue d’Antibes on December 24 from 3pm.
For a special meal, try the Hotel Montaigne (4 rue Montaigne). They have a New Year offer. Details at Hotel Montaigne.
Clubbing in Cannes
Needless to say, the clubs will be gearing up for some serious celebrations. You can try the Chunga (beside the Martinez), Charly’s (Rue du Suquet -that that are organising an “Ange our Démon” party – it might be worth booking), the GQ (Rue de Bateguier) or the epicentre of Cannes nightlife, Rue Commandant André and the surrounding little streets. The district, between La Croisette and the Rue d’Antibes, is known as the Carré d’Or (Golden Square). Not a club, but Ma Nolan’s upmarket Irish pub is often good for a laugh at 6 Rue Buttura (very central). Check their Facebook page.
If you have other tips for New Year’s Eve, drop a comment below.