Colorful parades, lively music, feathered and beaded costumes… Every year, the Paris Carnival and the Women’s Carnival transform the capital into a veritable party venue. A day filled with good cheer , attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators every year. But unfortunately, in 2026 , these two festive, family-friendly events will not take place due to lack of funds… We explain everything.
The Paris Carnival and Women’s Carnival canceled this year due to lack of funds…
Although the Paris Carnival has been part of the city’s cultural DNA since the 15th century, it wasn’t until 1998 that Parisians were able to enjoy it again as we know it today. Thanks to the association Droit à la Culture, the Paris Carnival and the Women’s Carnival (also known as the Laundresses’ Festival) lit up the boulevards of Paris every year for almost 30 years. These two major cultural events brought everyone together: families, friends, tourists…
Unfortunately, 2026 could well spell the end for these two festive events. Indeed , due to a lack of financial and human resources, the safety of the parades and spectators seems to be compromised. In its press release, the association highlights the difficulty it faces in obtaining subsidies, but also in mobilizing volunteers to ensure the smooth running of these two parades. We therefore know that these two carnivals will not take place in 2026… But the future of these two festive events remains very uncertain in the years to come…
A petition to save the Paris carnivals
Faced with this heartbreaking situation, passionate Parisians have launched a petition in the hope of prompting the Paris City Council to take action to save these two iconic events. The petition highlights the historical significance of these two carnivals, which allow Parisians and visitors from all over the world to come together around art, music, and diversity.
In 2026, rather than seeing these moments of sharing and celebration disappear, let’s make sure that Paris lives up to its reputation as the city of light and celebration.
At the time of writing, the petition has gathered 72 signatures. You too can sign it here.