Cannes Film Festival 2025 Begins with Glamorous Beach Lunch at Carlton Cannes

The Cannes Film Festival 2025 has kicked off with a stylish event hosted at Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, part of IHG’s luxury collection. The Vanity Fair x IHG Beach Lunch took place on May 13 at the Carlton Cannes Beach Club, welcoming prominent stars and industry figures such as Julia Garner, Naomie Harris, Jessica Madsen, Fabien Frankel, Erin Kellyman, Emma Weymouth, and Anson Boon.

Guests enjoyed a three-course Riviera-inspired menu prepared by Executive Chef Laurent Bunel, featuring local seafood and citrus desserts. The event, held on a beachside table decorated with the hotel’s signature yellow and white stripes and fresh flowers, marked the start of the festival’s festivities.

The occasion was hosted by Vanity Fair’s Richard Lawson, Hollywood Correspondent David Canfield, and IHG’s Jane Mackie. 

Jane Mackie, Senior Vice President, Global Marketing Luxury, Lifestyle and Premium Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said, “Nearly 80 years ago, the Carlton Cannes hosted the very first Cannes Film Festival. And here we are, some years later, getting together once more to celebrate the richness of film and the industry’s creativity. The world of film may have come a long way since 1946, and our hotel has certainly evolved during that time. But what hasn't changed is the glamour, the elegance, and the joie de vivre which is still a cornerstone of this two-week-long festival.”

The festival officially opened the next day with an awards ceremony at Le Palais des Festivals, where Robert De Niro was honoured with a Palme d’Or for Lifetime Achievement.

Richard Lawson, Chief Critic at Vanity Fair, said, “I’m thrilled that VF is once again partnering with IHG at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. The Carlton is an iconic hotel and the dream location to gather with emerging and established talent as we celebrate the beginning of this year’s festival. I truly can’t imagine a better way to kick things off.”

Beyond the festival, Carlton Cannes remains a symbol of glamour along the French Riviera, noted for its cinematic history and timeless style. The hotel continues to attract visitors from around the world, maintaining its legendary reputation in the world of film and luxury hospitality.