TBA - The carnival usually runs from January to March.
The Limoux Carnival is celebrated in the town of Limoux, located in the Occitanie region of southern France.
The Limoux Carnival is one of the longest-running carnivals in the world, with its origins dating back to the Middle Ages. It takes place in the town of Limoux, nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Pyrenees mountains in southern France. This carnival is renowned for its unique and vibrant atmosphere, characterized by colorful parades, lively music, and elaborate costumes.
What sets the Limoux Carnival apart is its distinctive style of celebration known as “Les Fécos.” During Les Fécos, groups of revelers, called “bandes,” roam the streets, dressed in eccentric and often satirical costumes, poking fun at politicians, local figures, and societal norms. These performances are marked by spontaneous wit, humor, and improvisation, creating a sense of joyful chaos that captivates both locals and visitors alike.
The Limoux Carnival typically spans several months, beginning in early January and culminating in March. Its festivities draw crowds from far and wide, offering a cultural experience that blends tradition, creativity, and community spirit. Whether participating in the parades, sampling local delicacies, or simply soaking in the festive ambiance, the Limoux Carnival offers a memorable celebration deeply rooted in history and cherished by generations.
At Limoux’s Carnival, expect to immerse yourself in a whirlwind of colorful parades, lively music, and elaborate costumes. The carnival’s hallmark “Les Fécos” performances feature groups of revelers roaming the streets, donning eccentric costumes and engaging in spontaneous satire aimed at politicians, local figures, and societal norms. The atmosphere is one of joyful chaos, filled with laughter, wit, and community spirit. Whether you’re participating in the parades, sampling local delicacies, or simply soaking in the vibrant ambiance, Limoux’s Carnival promises an unforgettable celebration deeply rooted in tradition and creativity.
The carnival’s heart is its traditional parades, where fecos groups (bands of masked performers) parade through the streets, accompanied by live music. The slow, deliberate movements of the dancers add mystique and charm.
Performers wear elaborate masks and costumes that range from humorous to fantastical. Each group has its own unique theme, often incorporating local folklore and satirical elements.
At night, the carnival transforms with illuminated parades, creating a magical atmosphere. The glow of lanterns combined with the costumes makes for an enchanting spectacle.
As the birthplace of Blanquette de Limoux, one of the world’s oldest sparkling wines, the carnival includes plenty of opportunities to sample this local specialty. Wine tastings and pairings are often part of the festivities.
A key feature is the brass band music that accompanies every parade, setting the rhythm for the dancers. The traditional tunes create a festive yet intimate atmosphere that’s distinctly Limoux.
Most of the action takes place in Limoux’s central square, Place de la République. The parades circle the square several times, creating a communal and immersive experience for attendees.
Date: 10 January – late March 2027 (TBC)
Location: Place de la République, Limoux, France
Time: Various times
Carnaval de Limoux is one of France’s longest-running carnival celebrations, known for its traditional masked bands, music, dancing, and festive processions through Limoux. The full 2027 daily event schedule has not yet been published — we'll update this page as soon as it's announced.
Note: Changes to the schedule are beyond our control, so please check for updates before finalizing travel plans.
Limoux is easy to reach whether you’re coming from within France, across Europe, or internationally.
Ready to lock in your flights? Use the search tool above to compare fares and find the best deal for your Carnival trip.
The best place to stay for Limoux Carnival is right in the town centre, as close to Place de la République as possible — all parades circle the square, and being within walking distance means you can dip in and out of the festivities across multiple weekends throughout the Carnival season.
Use the above map to find and book stays near the Carnival parade route!
Getting around Limoux during Carnival is easy thanks to its small size and pedestrian-friendly town center:
Stroll the historic streets of Limoux Old Town, relax with a glass of local fizz in Place de la République, or learn about the region’s famous sparkling wine at Maison Guinot. Take a scenic drive through the Aude Valley to explore vineyards and countryside villages, or visit nearby Carcassonne for medieval walls and fairytale views. As evening settles in, the traditional music and masked revelry keep the Carnival spirit alive.
We’ve gathered some of our most useful Carnival travel blogs to help you plan for Limoux Carnival and other Global Carnivals:
