Carnival in Tuscany: events not to be missed
From the great classic of Viareggio to the historic Foiano della Chiana, discover the most beautiful ones here
Carnival is one of the most fun times of the year for young and old alike. Rice fritters and Florentine-style schiacciata sweeten the windows of pastry shops and the squares of Tuscan villages dress up to host parades, floats and costumes. Let's discover together the most beautiful carnivals in Tuscany.
Viareggio Carnival: Satire, Entertainment, and Tradition by the Sea
From February 8 to March 4, parades of gigantic allegorical floats, performances, historical reenactments, music events, and art will once again take center stage at the Viareggio Carnival, one of Italy's most important carnivals. HERE all about the parades, guests, and events related to the Carnival.
Carnevale di Viareggio - Carneval Divino, carro di Luca BertozziFoiano della Chiana Carnival: The Oldest Carnival in Italy
From February 9 to March 9, the charming medieval village of Foiano della Chiana (AR) will host the 486th edition of Italy’s oldest carnival. For five Sundays, its streets will be filled with colors, music, and shows, featuring four grand allegorical floats made of papier-mâché by the Azzurri, Bombolo, Nottambuli, and Rustici workshops, competing in creativity. Saturday, February 8: Official inauguration with exhibitions and cultural events, including the presentation of the Carnival poster. Sunday, February 9: Opening of the workshops and the first parade of the floats from Piazza Matteotti (at 14:30), with music, street bands, and performances for all ages. There will also be guided tours, children’s games, a Disney parade, and a street food area offering local specialties. Each weekend will be filled with various side events, including exhibitions, dance performances, and entertainment for both adults and kids. The carnival will also be streamed live with special guest appearances.
Carnevale dei Figli di Bocco: Baroque Magic in the Heart of Tuscany
In the picturesque village of Castiglion Fibocchi (AR), the charm of the Carnevale dei Figli di Bocco returns, an event that evokes Venetian allure with luxurious masks and baroque atmospheres. On two Sundays, February 16 and 23, the village transforms into an open-air stage, animated by 200 participants dressed in precious costumes and papier-mâché masks, surrounded by vibrant colors and nostalgic vibes. The Carnival’s origins date back to the 12th century, when nobles and commoners celebrated together during the traditional "festa de Carnesciale". After a long hiatus, the event was revived in 1997 and is now reaching its 28th edition in 2025, dedicated to the Jubilee. In addition to the spectacular masked parade, the carnival will feature a rich program with street artists, theatrical performances, and food stalls, offering a journey through time filled with art, history, and traditional flavors.
Carnevale dei Figli di BoccoCarnevale di Santa Croce sull'Arno: Celebration and Color in the Historic Center
The tradition of the Santa Croce sull’Arno Carnival dates back to 1928, when locals decided to dress up to brighten the gray winter days. For 92 years, this carnival has been a true spectacle, with countless handmade masks parading through the streets and squares of the historic center in a celebration of color and choreography. The first parade will take place on February 16, followed by the second on February 23, and the third on March 2, with a possible makeup date on March 9, depending on weather conditions. Admission to the parades is ticketed.
Carnevale Follonichese: A Challenge of Allegorical Floats by the Neighborhoods
Since February 5, 1910, when a carnival ball was held in a hotel hall, the Carnevale Follonichese has been brightening the cold days of Follonica. It gained significant momentum after World War II, first as the Carnevale Maremmano, and later as the Carnevale Follonichese (named so in 1979). This carnival is a vibrant competition between allegorical floats representing different districts, where color and humor take center stage. The event culminates at the end of the third parade with the bonfire of King Carnival, a huge papier-mâché mask that marks the grand finale. The carnival includes four main parades, with a major new addition: the concluding parade will take place at night on Saturday, February 22, starting at 16:30 and ending with a spectacular fireworks display. Sunday, February 9 (14:30): Second parade and Miss Carnevale election. Sunday, February 16 (14:30): Awards for the floats and the best ground costumes. Saturday, February 22 (16:30): Night parade with fireworks
Grand Finale: The Fat Thursday ball (February 27) will close the celebrations with an evening of music and fun along the seafront.
Carnevale di San Gimignano: Allegorical Floats Amidst the Medieval Towers
On the Sundays of February 9, 16, 23, and March 2, the papier-mâché allegorical floats will make their way through the medieval towers of San Gimignano. This family-friendly event, filled with music, confetti, and streamers, is set against the charming backdrop of the medieval village (Here is everything you mustn't miss in San Gimignano).
CARNEVALE DI SAN GIMIGNANO Carnevale di Stia: A Dive into Tradition
As tradition dictates, the much-anticipated Carnevale di Stia returns to Stia (Arezzo) for an unmissable celebration. The historic parade will take place on February 22-23 and March 2-3, featuring the prestigious Maschera d’Oro competition. Children participating in the contest will receive fun gadgets, and entry to the competition is free. The allegorical floats parade through Piazza Tanucci starting at 14:00, with free admission for all.
Carnevale Mugellano: A Celebration of Music and Confetti
The Carnevale Mugellano in Borgo San Lorenzo is set for the Sundays of February 9, 16, 23, and March 2. Expect a vibrant mix of music, confetti, performances, fun, and allegorical floats. Free entry for everyone to enjoy!
