For the lovers of masks and confetti, lights, bright colors, and a festive overall atmosphere, several Italian cities are more than inviting us all to join the locals and enjoy unforgettable moments during the festivities of the Italian Carnivals.
Italy is famous for its carnivals. Especially the one in Venice. But there are more… a lot more cities that can surely impress you with the local festivities.
Puglia
Puglia is probably the region with the most Carnival celebrations… From Massafra to Gallipoli, from Dauno to Manfredonia, and beyond to Poggio Imperiale, the season sees a continual succession of processions and masquerade balls. Particular mention though goes to the Carnival of Putignano which seems to have its origins back in 1394…
Sicily
In Sicily, the Carnival of Acireale as they say is one of the best, if not the best, in the whole of Sicily. Acireale’s Carnival boasts an almost-ancient tradition, having begun in the 16th Century. Sicily is also benefiting from a mild Mediterranean climate and most of the time, the weather during this time of the year is beautiful with sunshine and high temperatures. Plus direct flights connect Catania from most European cities all year long and Acireale is only a 20min drive away.
Ferrara
Moving towards the north… in the Province of Ferrara in the Region of Emilia-Romagna, travelers can enjoy the Carnival of Cento; the Carnival of Surprises! As in every other such fiesta, there is a ranking and award ceremony held for costumes, entertainment, and music, as well as for the best gettito. The festivities end with the last parade, and the burn of the local mask “Tasi” while fireworks light up the sky. Before Tasi is burned, his will is read in the local dialect, in which his possessions are given to Cento’s most famous citizens. An absolutely adorable experience.
Pesaro
In the north again, in the region of Marche and the province of Pesaro, in the town of Fano, the carnival of Fano is among Italy’s oldest. The story says that has routes in Medieval times. The Fano Carnival is the world’s “sweetest” of carnivals and the only one where you can watch and take part in a no-holds-barred battle fought with… yes, chocolates! Hundreds of pounds of sweets, caramels, and chocolates are showered from parade floats onto the crowds of spectators, who join in, young and old alike, throwing their “ammunition” at each other – sometimes as far as the crowds on the opposite side of the procession.
Ivrea
Further up north… close to the Metropolitan City of Turin in the region of Piedmont, there is a town called Ivrea that offers an infinity of natural, historic, and artistic treasures such as castles, towers, and centuries-old churches! At Ivrea, they celebrate the Carnival of Oranges.
Venice
And for last, we reserved the place for the BEST! The One and Only Carnival of Venice! A celebration that dates back to 1296 and until today is so impressive! A very special time of the year that we have all to visit Venice at least once in our lives.
During these two-week Carnival celebrations, we can all watch and take part in the numerous events filling the piazzas and the canals of the city.
As always, private parties and masquerade balls are taking place. Some behind the scenes… inside Venice’s grand noble palaces… where time seems to stand still and the lucky guests can jump into a world of ancient splendor, reliving the Carnival tradition of a long time ago. Carnival in Venice is mysterious and magical! Carnival in Venice is unique!