Carnival in Tuscany

Small guide to learn about the cult events of the Tuscan Carnival between tradition and modernity

Approaches the most magical moment of the year, the Carnival, and Tuscany is adorned in festive for the occasion.

The best known is the Carnival of Viareggio (Lucca), where for a month - 3, 10, 12 (this Mardi Gras parade goes live nationally on Rai Tre), 9 February and 5 March from 3.00 pm - beautiful parade floats made with giants cardboard (caricatures of extraordinary personalities from politics, culture and entertainment) in the evocative setting of the sea and the rhythm of music. 

Even in the province of Arezzo Carnival Foiano della Chiana (from Febraury 10, every Sunday until March 10), a party rooted in medieval rites: the burning Giocondo, the king of Carnival that Foianesi represent as a puppet rag and straw.

From Sunday, March 3, 2013 returning the Uffizi Carnival in San Giovanni Valdarno (Arezzo). This ancient tradition is celebrated in the five Sundays preceding Mardi Gras (13, 20 and 27 January, 3, 10 February): at 11.00 am parade of the Northern League Uffizi, at 1.00 pm lunch in the halls of the Basilica of SS. Maria delle Grazie with the stew to Sangiovannese.

Finally, the Historic Carnival of Mea in Bibbiena (Arezzo) with the particularity of the medieval costumes that will impress visitors with parades and dances.The presentation of the young Mea and her beloved, this year falls just for Valentine's Day. The heart of the event will then be 2, 3 and 5 March.