What’s On September 2025
It’s La Rentrée! Summer and its string of debilitating canicules is done. We return to our regularly scheduled programming of concerts, festivals and September fun.
The highlight of the month are the Heritage Days, Journées du Patrimoine, which will take place September 20, 21. It’s a great time to explore the cultural heritage of the region. All municipal museums are free of charge with many hosting special events and guided tours. Check out the program in Nice here. I highly recommend the tour of the Valrose park and chateau which is normally open only to university students. Also interesting would be a tour of Nice’s synagogue Deloye, normally only open to worshippers and the tours of the Villa les Palmiers.
Villa Les Palmiers
See the program of events in Cannes here. Particularly interesting would be the tour of the Saint Honorat monastery on the Ile de Lerins. Check out the program in Antibes here.
Also highly recommended is the tour of the Villa Cap Moderne in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. This emblematic villa combining the genius of Eileen Gray and Le Corbusier can make any traditionalist love modernism. Reservations are essential. See here.
Cap Moderne
Check out the programs for all the towns here.
Note that reservations are sometimes necessary.
Nice
Ironman World Championships
Promenade des Anglais September 14
Building on the success of the men’s Ironman World Championship in 2023 and the women’s edition in 2024, Nice is set to host the world’s best triathletes once again. The iconic Promenade des Anglais will provide a stunning backdrop as competitors tackle an epic challenge: a 3.8 km swim, a 180 km bike ride, and a 42.2 km marathon run.
The day begins with a 7:05am swim from Les Ponchettes beach followed by a bike ride that weaves up and around the mountainous back country. The day ends with an exciting afternoon run along the Promenade des Anglais as the athletes complete no less than four loops. Feel free to join the enthusiastic spectators as they line the Prom to cheer on the athletes
The Coulée Verte will host the Ironman Village filled with memorabilia and souvenirs.
It’s great free fun for all. Locals know that some disruptions are inevitable, particularly along the Prom and the bike route through the mountains. More details on the Ironman website.
Cineroman Festival
Gare du Sud September 29-October 4
Cinephiles who always wanted to walk the red carpet but didn’t have the clout to get into Cannes should head to this annual festival. The theme is the link between cinema and literature but the program has expanded to include cult classics and previews of upcoming films as well as previously released films in competition for the prize. Tickets are priced at the typical entry fee for the Gare du Sud but must be reserved in advance. To check this year’s program and buy tickets see the Cineroman website.
Crossover Festival
Le 109 September 5-6
The Nice Crossover Festival is back for a second edition celebrating urban culture. For two nights, Le 109 comes alive with rap, electro, and hip-hop, featuring top headliners, rising talent, and three stages of live concerts, dance showcases, and DJ sets. An urban market with street food and local creators completes this vibrant, underground music experience. More information at the Crossover Festival website.
Apéro Geant Rue de Lille
Rue de Lille September 26
This fun local street festival will have a live rock band and a food truck. The admission price of €15 includes a buffet prepared by local restaurants and drinks are only €4. Buy tickets at the participating restaurants: Hacienda, Kind & Co, La Table de Brice, Le Comptoir des Freres, L’Eau de Vie. The festivities start at 6.30pm and last until midnight
Metal Up the Opera
Nice Opera September 6 8pm
Metal and Classical? Why not. This unique festival aims to bring together two seemingly opposing worlds, melodic metal and symphonic music, brought together in the hallowed halls of the Nice Opera house.. The party begins in the afternoon on the forecourt of the Opera, with DJs and groups offering an eclectic and free program. Tickets for the main event run from €25-€35 and can be purchased at the Nice Opera.
Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Classic Festival
Various locations September 13-20.
Classical music fans can get their fill at this festival that features quartets, bands, piano and saxophone concerts in venues that span churches, the Casino and even the beach. Check out the program and reserve here.
Monaco
Monaco Yacht Show September
Port Hercule September 24-27
The world’s most prestigious superyacht event takes over Monaco’s port. Over 100 luxury yachts, often exceeding 50m, and 500 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge designs, innovations, and high-end services. A glamorous meeting point for owners, designers, brokers, and enthusiasts. More info here
Cannes
Cannes Royal Regatta
Vieux Port September 21-27
Here’s a legendary regatta where the world’s most beautiful classic yachts compete daily. Expect elegant wooden boats, historic racing yachts, and beautiful classic sailing boats around the Vieux Port. Around the Vieux Port, the atmosphere is festive with entertainment, maritime stands and a nautical fanfare celebrating the living heritage of sailing.More info here
Juan-les-Pins
Summer Sale
City Center September 27-28
Local shoppers know that Juan-les-Pins is the place for great deals on great fashion. For an entire weekend, the shopping streets are pedestrianized and more than a hundred local boutiques set up stalls and racks to offer end-of-line items, bargains, and unbeatable promotions. Fashion, accessories, jewelry, decor, local products: there’s something for every taste and budget. Take a shopping break and enjoy the festive atmosphere that reigns in the city, with music in the streets, lively terraces, and a relaxed end-of-season atmosphere.