Carnaval d'Issy-les-Moulineaux

The Carnaval d'Issy-les-Moulineaux, a celebration in color

Issy-les-Moulineaux is a commune in the Hauts-de-Seine with approximately 67,000 inhabitants, bordering the 15th arrondissement of Paris. A town of businesses – it notably houses the headquarters of many media groups – it is also a town of life, with a lively town center, green parks, and a particularly active cultural and festive life. The Carnaval d'Issy is one of its most popular expressions.

The carnival tradition in Issy-les-Moulineaux is very much alive. Every winter, around Mardi Gras, the town adorns itself with colors and costumes to welcome a joyful parade through its streets. The procession brings together costumed residents, local associations, and children's entertainment, in a festive and popular atmosphere appreciated by all.

The handing over of the city keys to King Carnival

One of the emblematic moments of the Carnaval d'Issy is the handing over of the city keys to King Carnival, a tradition that symbolizes the festive takeover by the carnival character. This ceremony, both solemn and comical, is highly appreciated by children and families, who participate in costume in this founding act of the celebration.

King Carnival, the tutelary figure of the tradition, presides over the festivities for a day, before being symbolically burned or chased away at the end of the carnival, marking the beginning of Lent according to Christian tradition.

VivaIssy, the major summer event

The carnival is part of an exceptional annual festive agenda in Issy-les-Moulineaux, the centerpiece of which is undoubtedly VivaIssy. This major summer event takes place every year in June: the 2026 edition will be held from June 9 to 16. For a week, VivaIssy offers concerts, shows, cultural and sporting activities, and festive events throughout Issy-les-Moulineaux. It is the largest festive event in the commune and one of the most important cultural events in the Hauts-de-Seine.

The Tour aux figures by Jean Dubuffet

Issy-les-Moulineaux also boasts remarkable artistic heritage. The Tour aux figures by Jean Dubuffet, a monumental work in painted resin inaugurated in 1988, is one of the masterpieces of Art Brut in France. It is regularly accessible during cultural events such as the European Heritage Days. This artistic gem contributes to the image of a city that takes culture seriously, from popular carnivals to contemporary art.

The Corrida de Noël

At the end of the year, the Corrida de Noël d'Issy-les-Moulineaux (December 14) brings together thousands of costumed runners for a festive race through the city streets, perpetuating another popular tradition of the Issy calendar. With the carnival and VivaIssy, it forms a festive triptych that makes Issy-les-Moulineaux one of the liveliest cities in the Hauts-de-Seine.