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Rio hits the Riviera, it's Carnival time in Nice

Security will be heightened at the 2016 Nice Carnival

featured in News & reviews Author Pam Williamson, Nice Editor Updated

The Nice Carnival almost rivals Rio with its extravagant and colourful parades through the city and along the Promenade des Anglais.

Kicking off next Saturday, 13th February, the Nice Carnival is one of the most popular events in the Nice calendar. Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the region, it is safe to say that the event is certainly a wonderful spectacle, but also a concern for security services.

In light of recent terror attacks across the country there has been an increase in concern over the event. We were assured last year that the event would go ahead as planned despite the 'State of emergency' being extended across France.

Last Friday a meeting of the Interior Ministry was held. The safety plan that will be in place for the duration of the carnival was presented to representatives of the city and the prefect of Alpes-Maritimes and the minister's office. To ensure the safety of the expected 400,000 visitors, the presence of security forces will be increases: CRS, uniformed policemen and plain clothes policemen will be in attendance.

You can rest assured that you will be in the best capable hands as you attend this spectacular event! It is certainly a highlight of the 2016 Nice calendar and one of the main reasons to visit the French Riviera during the cooler winter months. So get your costume on, paint your face and get ready to party!