From MIPIM in March to the Cannes Film Festival in May, from Cannes Lions in June to the Cannes Yachting Festival in September, Cannes hosts some of the world’s most prestigious events. Here’s an overview of major events in Cannes, the different types of private and corporate receptions, and tips for organizing your event on the Croisette or at private beaches.
MIPIM, the Cannes Film Festival, and Cannes Lions: Major International Events
MIPIM, the global real estate trade show, takes place every year in March around the Palais des Festivals and on Miramar Beach. We regularly set up 10 x 20 m and 5 x 20 m Arquée structures there, featuring a full-glass design with a steel base, underfloor ballast, and a pleated brushed cotton canopy. The Cannes Film Festival, a global cinema event held in May, features installations along the Croisette and on private beaches, such as Ondine Beach, where we set up a 10 x 20 m full-glass Arquée structure with a floor, chandeliers, and fabric decorations.
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity (June) attracts global communications agencies and requires branded event setups. The Cannes Yachting Festival (September) wraps up the season with installations tailored to the harbor and anchorages. These major events require a substantial inventory of equipment and expertise in Cannes’ venues, particularly Miramar Beach and Ondine Beach.
Weddings and Private Receptions in Cannes: The Croisette, Villas of Cap, and the Hinterland
Private receptions in Cannes are typically held in the villas of nearby Cap d’Antibes, the estates of Mougins, the villas of La Californie, and the luxury hotels along the Croisette. High-end weddings favor Noire Signature venues, handcrafted Silhouette tents, and the cozy Orangerie, with reception furnishings (Napoleon chairs, round wooden tables, crystal chandeliers) coordinated to reflect the Riviera spirit. Our expertise in managing complex venues (beaches, sloping gardens, panoramic terraces) is particularly valuable in this area.
Brand launches and high-profile events in Cannes
Cannes is a prime location for international brand launches, particularly in the fashion, luxury, yachting, and beauty industries. Branded events take place on private beaches (Miramar, Ondine, Carlton), along the Croisette, in privately rented villas, and on moored yachts. Full customization of materials—including digital printing on tarps, branded awnings, custom signage, and coordinating furniture—is our standard for these events, with absolute discretion for brands under embargo.
Trade Shows and Professional Events Near the Palais des Festivals
In addition to MIPIM and the Film Festival, Cannes hosts numerous trade shows and international conferences at the Palais des Festivals and its outdoor venues. ILTM (International Luxury Travel Market) in December, MAPIC in November, TFWA in October, and MIPCOM in October: Cannes’ B2B calendar spans the entire year. Our modular partitions, custom booths, and covered structures are regularly installed in these outdoor venues, particularly the Miramar and Ondine beaches, which are reserved by the trade shows for their evening events and promotional activities.
Seasonality and Practical Tips
March (MIPIM), May (Film Festival), June (Cannes Lions), September (Cannes Yachting Festival), October–November (MAPIC, MIPCOM, TFWA), December (ILTM): Cannes’ event calendar is packed year-round. For weddings and private events, May and September offer the best balance outside of trade show seasons. For B2B events surrounding major trade shows, booking venues six months in advance has become a prerequisite. Access to Miramar Beach and Ondine Beach is strictly regulated during these periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you provide catering for an event during MIPIM or the Film Festival?
Yes. We regularly provide equipment for these two major global events. Our Arquée structures—featuring full-glass walls, steel-reinforced floors, and pleated brushed-cotton canopies—are set up on Miramar Beach for MIPIM and on Ondine Beach for the Film Festival. For these busy periods, please book six to nine months in advance.
What are the requirements for organizing an event on the beaches of Cannes?
The beaches of Cannes are subject to specific permits issued by the City of Cannes and strict environmental regulations. Installing structures at ground level with steel foundation plates and appropriate ballast, dismantling them without leaving a trace, and complying with coastal regulations have been part of our daily routine at these sites for over twenty years.
Do you work with the event agencies that are present at the major trade shows in Cannes?
Yes. We are the logistics partner for numerous agencies in Paris, London, and around the world that participate in MIPIM, the Film Festival, Cannes Lions, and other trade shows. We coordinate the equipment and technical staff through subcontractors, without competing with your client relationships.
Plan Your Event in Cannes with Martel-LT Events
Weddings, galas, brand launches, MIPIM events, film festivals, or trade shows: describe your project (date, location, capacity, format), and our teams will get back to you within 48 hours after assessing the venue. Call us at 04 92 02 18 11.Request a free quote or check out our past projects in Cannes.
