Grand Carnaval de Baccarat

The Great Cavalcade of Baccarat

The Grand Carnaval de Baccarat is a major festive event in the life of the crystal city. Every March, the streets of Baccarat fill with colors, music, and confetti for a grand cavalcade that brings together costumed carnival-goers, decorated floats, brass bands, and enthusiastic spectators.

A large-scale parade

The Baccarat carnival has established itself as one of the most important carnival parades in Lorraine. The event attracts participants from all over the region and beyond:

• Approximately 1,300 costumed carnival-goers parade through the streets.
• Sixty associations participate in the procession with their creations.
• Fifteen floats come from Lorraine, Alsace, Franche-Comté, Champagne, and Germany.
• Ten musical ensembles (brass bands, batucadas, musical groups) provide the sound atmosphere.

The parade route

The parade follows a route through the center of Baccarat, passing through the main streets:

• Rue des Cristalleries
• Rue du Général Rouvillois
• Rue de Gernsbach
• Rue Division Leclerc (the bridge)
• Rue Adrien Michaut and Rue des Moulins
• Avenue de Lachapelle

A renewed theme each year

Each edition of the carnival is placed under a theme that inspires costumes, floats, and entertainment. In 2026, the theme "Along the Water" invites participants to unleash their creativity around the element of water.

The Burning of Monsieur Carnaval

The procession concludes at Place du Général Leclerc where, after the presentation of all the floats, the Comité des Fêtes carries out the traditional burning of Monsieur Carnaval. This symbolic ritual, common to many European carnivals, marks the end of the festivities and the transition to spring.

A popular and friendly event

The Grand Carnaval de Baccarat is a popular festival open to all. Doughnuts, confetti, hot drinks, and on-site catering accompany the festivities in a family-friendly and joyful atmosphere.