Lou Queernaval, the only LGBTQIA+ carnival in France, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. For this special occasion, the singer from Nice, Santa, has been chosen as the patron. A role she embraces with enthusiasm.
The event will take place on Friday, February 28, 2025 at 8:30 PM at Place Masséna. The public will be able to enjoy performances by drag queens, artistic shows, and the fiery rhythms of batucadas. Admission is free, but online reservation is mandatory.
In a video shared by the LGBTQIA+ Côte d’Azur Center, the event organizer, Santa expresses her joy: “I’m thrilled! I’m extremely happy to announce that I am the patron for Lou Queernaval’s tenth anniversary. Come admire red and black, but also all the colors of the rainbow with lots of love as far as the eye can see. Also come dance at Place Masséna because that’s the big celebration…”
Erwann Le Hô, coordinator of the LGBTQIA+ Côte d’Azur Center, expresses his delight in an interview with Nice-Matin: “We are very happy that Santa is the patron of Lou Queernaval. She has always conveyed clear messages about inclusion and the diversity of love. She’s from Nice and is as she is on stage or in interviews: genuine, unifying, and open. This aligns with our message of tolerance in a general context where attempts at division are occurring. We reaffirm the idea of living together and the desire to share.”
Strong Attendance Expected
The enthusiasm for this event is unwavering. The 10,000 available spots sold out quickly. However, Erwann Le Hô notes that it will be possible to pick up a few last-minute tickets on the day, starting at 2 PM on the Promenade du Paillon.
The show promises to be remarkable. “Last year’s show was artistically very explosive while being well-organized. The public loves it, and the idea of a giant dance floor at Place Masséna is hugely appealing”, adds Erwann Le Hô.
The festivities will start at 8:30 PM, but it’s best to arrive early to not miss anything. Santa, meanwhile, will return to Nice on July 27 for a concert at the Nice Jazz Festival.