Candé Carnival

A historic carnival in Haut Anjou

The Candé Carnival is one of the oldest popular festivals in Maine-et-Loire. Its origins date back to 1946, when the Foyer laïque de Candé launched the Mi-Carême, a traditional carnival celebration that attracted 12,000 spectators from its very first edition. For over 75 years, young and old have gathered every spring around the carnival floats in a festive and popular atmosphere.

The daytime parade: an explosion of colors

On Sunday afternoon, the town center of Candé comes alive with the daytime parade. About ten decorated floats, the result of months of volunteer work, parade through the streets accompanied by dance groups, brass bands, and the carnival queens. The colorful procession moves through the town in a joyful atmosphere, punctuated by confetti, music, and entertainment. The funfair completes the program for the delight of families.

The night parade: the magic of illuminated floats

The highlight of the Candé Carnival is undoubtedly the night parade, organized a few days after the daytime parade. As night falls, the floats are adorned with thousands of lights and parade through the streets of Candé from Boulevard de l'Erdre to Place Saint-Nicolas, creating a magical spectacle. Dance groups and brass bands liven up the night procession, which concludes with the traditional burning of Monsieur Carnaval, a symbol of the end of the festivities.

An event driven by volunteers

The Candé Carnival is above all a human adventure. Around 350 volunteers participate in organizing the event, from building the floats in the hangars to the entertainment on the day itself. The Foyer laïque de Candé, the historic organizer, mobilizes associations and residents of the town to perpetuate this age-old tradition. The carnival is a vector of social connection and local pride that brings the entire community together.