The Feast of the Cougourdons will take place on March 30, 2025, at the Arènes de Cimiez and on Place Jean-Paul II. This traditional celebration will offer music, dance, crafts, and activities for both young and old.
On Sunday, March 30, 2025, Nice will celebrate the Feast of the Cougourdons in the Jardins des Arènes de Cimiez and on Place Jean-Paul II. This event, organized by the municipality, highlights a little-known local heritage: the cougourdons, these dried gourds transformed into decorative objects or musical instruments.
The Feast of the Cougourdons traces its origin to a market that was held in the 19th century in front of the Cimiez Monastery. Today, the festival combines tradition, crafts, and music. At 11:45 AM, a wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the War Memorial on Place Jean-Paul II, followed by the official launch of the festivities at noon in the Jardins des Arènes de Cimiez.
A popular festival dating back to the last century
This 2025 edition will be marked by the centennial of “La Ciamada Nissarda”. Founded in 1925 by the poet Jouan Nicola, this folkloric group perpetuates the culture of Nice through song and dance. They will be present all day alongside other musical groups and traditional dancers.
The program includes several highlights. At 1 PM, the choir “Les désaccordés au Kazou” will give a concert. At 2:15 PM, “La Ciamada Nissarda” will present a dance performance. At 3 PM, it’s time for the World Petadou Championship, hosted by Richard Cairaschi. The celebration will continue with “Nice la Belle” at 3:45 PM and “Lou cairèu niçart” at 4:30 PM. Finally, a balèti with “Mai qu’Acò” will close the event at 5 PM.
Throughout the day, activities will be offered to children: face painting, wooden games, and creative workshops. There will also be associative and food stalls set up, alongside a dedicated space to the culture of Nice with guided tours and information on the local language.
