Whether you're a long-time resident of Cannes or just visiting for the summer, Sunday, August 16, 2026 marks another edition of the Bal des Fous: the Shellfish & Crustacean Ball. Head to the Terrasse Riviera at the Palais des Festivals for an afternoon under the sea, with mermaids, sailors, and aquatic creatures.
As with every edition, costumes are not optional: they are the key to entry and the guiding theme of the evening. Here's how to create a successful nautical look, whether you're a she, a he, or a duo.
The Shellfish & Crustacean Ball 2026 in Practice
- Date: Sunday, August 16, 2026
- Time: 4:00 PM to 12:30 AM
- Location: Terrasse Riviera – Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, 1 boulevard de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes
- Access: Prohibited to those under 18 years old. Physical and original ID required at entry (no photos or photocopies accepted).
Additional details on the official event page, Shellfish & Crustacean Ball section.
Are you on vacation on the French Riviera?
Mid-August is also peak tourist season: if you're staying in Cannes, Golfe-Juan, Antibes, or Nice for the summer and obviously haven't packed a costume in your suitcase, don't panic. Our two stores are open 6 days a week until the last minute, and a good portion of our August clientele consists precisely of vacationers who come to complete their look just before the ball.
What costume for the Shellfish & Crustacean Ball?
For her: the mermaid
The quintessential classic for this theme. Three mermaid wig styles are available depending on the desired ambiance: enchanting green mermaid wig, mermaid wig adorned with pearls for a more glamorous look, or red mermaid wig with starfish for a bolder style. Complete with the mermaid makeup kit with stencils and glitter and the white flower pearl necklace.
For him: the captain
Head to the helm with the Cruise Ship Captain costume (jacket, cap, and trousers). Easy to wear all evening, it remains comfortable even in the heat of August.
As a duo: sailor & mariner girl
For those who prefer to coordinate their looks as a pair, the Mariner Girl costume (belt, hat, and dress) pairs perfectly with the Captain costume. Want to stray a bit from the literal theme? The Women's Pirate costume (hat and dress) stays within the maritime spirit while adding a more unconventional touch.
Reserve online, pick up in store
During peak season, some items (especially M sizes of the Cruise Ship Captain and Mariner Girl) sell out quickly. The safest option is to order online and pick up via free Click & Collect in Mougins or Villeneuve-Loubet, or call the store for a reservation.
👉 The complete Bal des Fous collection: https://ideafete.com/collections/bal-des-fous-ete
FAQ – Shellfish & Crustacean Ball 2026 (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is a costume truly mandatory to enter the Shellfish & Crustacean Ball?
Yes, in practice. The thematic costume is the very DNA of the Bal des Fous and determines priority access.
Can I enter with a photo of my ID card on my phone?
No. A physical and original ID (ID card, passport, or driver's license) is required at the entrance; photos and photocopies are not accepted.
I'm on vacation without a costume, can I find an outfit on the day of the event?
Yes, subject to availability. Our stores in Mougins and Villeneuve-Loubet remain open until the Saturday before the ball; however, it's better to plan a few days in advance to have a choice of sizes.
Where can I reserve a table or priority access?
On the reservations page of the official Bal des Fous website. Standard entry remains public and free, with priority given to the best costumes.
What are the opening hours of Idéafête stores in Mougins and Villeneuve-Loubet?
Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM non-stop, closed on Sundays.
Do you offer looks for men and women on this theme?
Yes: mermaid and pirate for women, cruise ship captain for men, with the possibility of coordinating the two as a sailor/mariner girl duo.
