Event Details
Welcome to the World's Longest Carnival
Every year from mid-January to late March, the small town of Limoux in the Aude département of southern France becomes home to the world's longest carnival. The Carnaval de Limoux, also known as the Fécos Carnival, has been celebrated since 1604 and takes place free of charge every Saturday, Sunday and on Mardi Gras on the Place de la République, surrounded by the town's medieval arcades. With over 400 years of unbroken tradition, this is one of the most authentic and unique folk festivals in Europe.
When Does Carnaval de Limoux 2027 Take Place?
The Carnaval de Limoux 2027 runs from mid-January to late March 2027. Every Saturday and Sunday, plus Mardi Gras (9 February 2027), the bands take to the square for three performances per day: at 11:00 AM, 4:30 PM and 10:00 PM. Exact start and end dates for 2027 will be confirmed by the Office de Tourisme Limouxin; in 2026 the carnival ran from 10 January to 22 March.
Highlights
- 32 bands (Fecos) take turns performing, each representing a neighbourhood, place or trade of Limoux
- Three performances daily: 11:00 AM (satirical and humorous), 4:30 PM (classic Pierrot costume), 10:00 PM (torch-lit parade with handmade Entorches)
- Mardi Gras (9 February 2027): A special day dedicated to the Goudils with an extended festive programme
- Carnaval du Monde: An international showcase with over 300 costumes and musicians from around the world
- All 32 bands performing simultaneously: 500 carnival participants and over 100 musicians in one place
- Closing ceremony: the Nuit de la Blanquette, featuring the trial and burning of Sa Majesté Carnaval
- Free admission for all street performances
Program and Traditions
The heart of the carnival are the Fecos, the traditional music bands, accompanied by the Goudils: masked, costumed figures who draw the audience into an improvised street comedy. Unlike other carnivals there is no formal parade; instead, the bands move from café to café beneath the medieval arcades, pulling spectators into a whirl of confetti, music and dance.
Each of the 32 bands crafts its own secret costume, prepared in strict secrecy for months in advance. The 11:00 AM performance tends to be satirical, drawing on current events for comic effect. The 4:30 PM performance features the iconic Pierrot costume, unique in colour and cut for every band. The 10:00 PM torch-lit performance creates a magical atmosphere unlike any other carnival experience.
The carnival closes with the Nuit de la Blanquette, during which Sa Majesté Carnaval is put on trial and ceremonially burned. The Blanquette de Limoux, a traditional sparkling wine produced in the region since the 16th century, is the drink of choice for this emotional finale.
Admission and Costs
All performances on Place de la République are completely free of charge. Some indoor events or special evening gatherings may carry a ticket price. The many cafés and restaurants around the square offer regional cuisine and the celebrated Blanquette de Limoux sparkling wine.
Visitor Tips
- Arrive early before each performance as the square fills up quickly, especially for the 4:30 PM and 10:00 PM shows.
- If you plan to stay for the 10:00 PM performance, book accommodation in Limoux or nearby Carcassonne in advance.
- Train travel: Limoux station is less than a 10-minute walk from Place de la République; regular connections run from Carcassonne.
- The LiO bus network also serves Limoux; the stop at Limoux Lycée Jacques Ruffié is just 5 minutes from the carnival grounds.
- Wearing a costume is warmly welcomed and very much part of the carnival spirit.
- Accommodation in Limoux is limited; book several months ahead, especially for Mardi Gras weekend.
- Check the official Office de Tourisme Limouxin website for the confirmed 2027 programme and exact dates.
