Christmas is apparently a little later in Menton (83 Var, Provence) on the French Riviera - as its Christmas market does not start until 16 December 2006, and then continues until 7 January 2007. There is an environmental theme this year to the celebrations, looking at conservation, safeguarding threatened species of animal, sea and plant life - centred around the town's Christmas Arch - sounds like a good place to be even with children. For more info see www.menton.fr
If you cannot make even this extended Christmas event, you could always wait until February and try the Menton Lemon Festival - "Fete du Citron". which runs from 17 February to 7 March 2007.Somehow this always sounds so tempting - the crisp acidity of lemons against a winter blue sky and the Mediterranean is conjured up for me. This is a celebration of lemons and other citrus fruit from around the world - and this year's "Guest of Honour" is India - it looks like France is getting a thing for India - Lille has centred it's Lille 3000 celebrations on the country and you'll find Elephants, Indian music, food and textiles adorning the city (see more....)
Back on the Riviera Menton will be showing off citrus fruits from all corners of the planet, with evening light shows, demonstrations, music all in the mild heady climate of the Cote d'Azur!
For more info see www.menton.fr
