Experience the Spectacular Carnival Season in Italy!

Carnival season in Italy is an exciting time of year when the country’s streets are filled with colourful parades, music and joy. The whole event is full of humour and creativity, and it’s a great way to experience Italian culture and traditions first-hand. People from all over the world come to experience this amazing spectacle and be part of the festivities.

The celebration, which dates to the Middle Ages, is rooted in Christian tradition and occurs in the weeks leading up to Lent. For forty days leading up to Easter, people would stop eating meat, sugar and fats. Carnival provided an opportunity to indulge in rich food, before taking on a period of fasting. Now, carnival season is a festive time that is marked by parades, parties, and masquerades.

Where to see the Best Carnival Parades

One of the best ways to experience the magic of the season is by attending one of the many vibrant parades taking place all over the country. From Venice to Rome, Florence and beyond, each city puts on its own unique show, filled with dazzling costumes, lively street performers and spectacular floats. For a truly unforgettable experience, why not plan a trip to one of Italy’s most famous carnival destinations?

Viareggio

The city of Viareggio in Tuscany is home to one of Europe’s most iconic events – Carnevale di Viareggio. Well-known for its lavish carnival parade, people visit from all over the world to see the huge floats that are covered in paper-mâché figures and fun parade costumes. The month-long Viareggio festival features both daytime and evening events, including concerts and music. One of the notable things about Carnevale di Viareggio is its satirical nature. Each year, they make fun of a different politician or situation, and the figures are incredibly expressive and lifelike.

Venice

The Carnival season in Venice is one of the most famous and well-known in all of Italy. known for its lavish costumes and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a time when locals and visitors alike wear their most extravagant costumes and masks and fill the streets to take part in all the fun. You can also sample delicious Venetian delicacies such as Cicchetti (small snacks) or sarde in saor (marinated sardines). The vibrant atmosphere of the carnival adds to its charm. You will hear music playing everywhere you go, with performances by local bands and dancers.

Acireale

The city of Acireale, located on Sicily’s east coast, stands out as one of the most beautiful when it comes to Carnival celebrations. The procession takes place in the main square called ‘Piazza Duomo’. Here, visitors will find many handcrafted floats decorated with flowers and papier mache figures, while other entertainment includes music and poetry.

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to immerse yourself in Italian culture, practise your language skills and have a good time, then the Carnival season in Italy is the perfect opportunity! No matter where you are during carnival season in Italy, you can be sure to have an incredible experience and pick up some new Italian skills along the way. For more information on learning Italian and making the most of your visit to Italy, get in touch!