Italy is a country with a fascinating history and an intriguing culture. Among one of the most interesting and fun cultural events is the Viareggio Carnival. It takes place every year in February in the Tuscan city of Viareggio and attracts huge numbers of visitors from far and wide. Due to its long history, the carnival is one of the most important events in the city’s calendar. It’s a spectacle that is well worth experiencing for children as well as adults.
The Viareggio Carnival and its origins
According to legend, the carnival was started in February 1873, by the young people of Viareggio. They wanted to celebrate Mardi Gras with an open-air parade of floats. This then became what today we call Carnevale di Viareggio. The event takes place over a whole month, mostly in February.
Like other carnivals around the world, the one in Viareggio also has its origins in the Catholic religion. People are enjoying themselves before the sombre time of lent starts on Ash Wednesday, when people give up things such as alcohol or chocolate.
Viareggio Carnival 2024 Program
The Viareggio Carnival 2024 will take place from February 3 to 24. There will be 6 parades in total, with the biggest ones taking place on February 3, 8, 11, and 13.
Opening Parade (February 3)
Tuscany, in central Italy, is justifiably renowned for being one of Europe’s most beautiful locations, and a Tuscany Villa is a fantastic way to take it all in.
Night Parades (February 8, 13, and 24)
Tuscany, in central Italy, is justifiably renowned for being one of Europe’s most beautiful locations, and a Tuscany Villa is a fantastic way to take it all in.
Day Parades (February 11 and 18)
Tuscany, in central Italy, is justifiably renowned for being one of Europe’s most beautiful locations, and a Tuscany Villa is a fantastic way to take it all in.
Closing Parade (February 24)
Tuscany, in central Italy, is justifiably renowned for being one of Europe’s most beautiful locations, and a Tuscany Villa is a fantastic way to take it all in.
Parades And Floats during the Viareggio Carnival
The biggest part of the carnevale is the parades and the floats. The parades take place on four Sundays in February and Shrove Tuesday, where the floats are paraded along the city’s promenade. The floats are made from papier-mâché and are huge. They used to be paraded on carriages, but today they are driven around on vehicles.
The floats are also the reason why the Viareggio carnival is such a popular carnival in Italy. Only topped by the carnival in Venice. The floats are representations of current affairs in a humorous and satirical way. It’s a way to laugh at issues that are confronting the world, illustrating the Italian way of life. Politicians, actors, singers, writers and footballers have all been featured as floats and even young climate activist Greta Thunburg got her own float.
What is so fascinating about the Viareggio floats is that they move and are animated with music, making each a spectacle in itself. Each float is accompanied by a group of people in costumes dancing. It’s a joy to watch them and try to figure out what they are representing.
A Carnival full of Costumes and Traditions
In Italy, carnival is taken seriously, so the spectators will don masks and costumes as they watch the floats go past. There are no specific rules as to what costumes to wear; anything goes. The town becomes a colourful mass of dancing and singing people, all joining in the festive spirit of the carnival. They will also throw colourful streamers and confetti, transforming the city into a sea of colour. It is said local citizens wore masks during the carnival to protest against high taxes. This then became a tradition that is today as much a part of the event as the floats and the parades.
The carnival also has its own mascot, a clown dressed in red and white, called Burlamacco. It’s also the town’s mascot, which has erected a statue of him on the Promenade. You can spot him around town during carnevale with his iconic costume. Because it’s such a famous event, be prepared for masses of people and don’t be afraid to join in.
What to Eat in Viareggio during the Carnival
Like with many other special events in Italy, the carnival comes with its own culinary delights. They are all sweet, probably because sweets are one thing many people give up for lent. They are special because you can only get them during carnival season, which makes them taste even better. Cenci are crisp pastries that have a delicious sweet taste.
Another popular delicacy is Fritelle di Riso: sweet fried rice balls rolled in sugar. The perfect treat for children and adults while watching the parade. Many bakeries will also sell Schiacciata Alla Fiorentina during this festive period, an orange sponge cake.
While the parades are the star entertainment, during carnival season Viareggio becomes one big party. Open-air parties all over the city offer music, dancing and masks late into the night. Fireworks are also organised as well as special food events and even sporting events.
Living The Carnival Of Viareggio Experience with us
The Viareggio carnival attracts over half a million people every year, which means the city will be packed, especially on the days of the parades. The best way to get to the city during this time is the train, as parking can be a challenge. The train station is only about 20 minutes walk away from the Promenade.
To fully enjoy the carnival experience, make sure you pack your costume or a mask, so you can join in. You can also buy masks and wigs there, so don’t worry if you forgot your costume. Make sure you also try all the delicious traditional sweets on offer as they are part of this special event. Finally, have fun! Make it a time you will never forget.
