The Gourd Festival is held in March and, in spite of the fact it is related to the Annunciation, it does not have a fixed date (the Annunciation being celebrated on March the 25). It is, however, held in March, and it materializes the joy with which the locals welcome the coming of spring.

Besides the exhibitions which reflect the resourcefulness producers pour in turning this prized vegetable into a lovely decorative and useful item (the gourd being famed for its extensive range of domestic uses), the event is spiced, so to say, with food tasting opportunities.

It is in Cimiez that most of the event is organized (Sunday), though the opening of the festival is officiated on Cours Saleya (Saturday morning).

For a complete description of the festival, as well as for a thorough account of the traditional use of the gourd in Nice, visit Le Festin des Cougourdons.

Cimiez, Nice, France

Cimiez, Nice, France

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