Top 5 Carnivals in Italy

February 16th 2012 by Silvia

 

DISCOVERING THE MAGIC OF ITALIAN CARNIVAL 2025: SEMEL IN ANNO LICET INSANIRE  

 

The Italian Carnival has deep roots in ancient and fascinating traditions. The Latin expression "Semel in anno licet insanire" (once a year, it is allowed to go crazy) perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this celebration: a moment of unrestrained joy, freedom, and inversion of social roles.

Originating from the Roman Saturnalia, Carnival has evolved over the centuries, becoming a celebration of colors, masks, and music that today enchants millions of visitors. From the elegant Venetian masks to the Tuscan allegorical floats, every corner of Italy celebrates Carnival with its own unique touch.
Let’s explore together the most famous Carnival festivals in Italy, perfect for an unforgettable family vacation.
 
THE MOST IMPORTANT CARNIVAL FESTIVALS IN ITALY 
 
 
 
The Carnival in Italy stands out for its variety, offering unforgettable experiences in every region. Here is a selection of the most iconic celebrations of 2025, with practical details for your trip.
 
The Venice Carnival 2025 
 

The Venetian masks, such as Pantalone and Arlecchino, are timeless symbols of charm and mystery. The Venice Carnival, with its 900 years of history, is a unique celebration that transforms the lagoon city into an open-air theater. The main events include the Flight of the Angel and the parades on the Grand Canal. This Carnival is perfect for those who wish to immerse themselves in an elegant and timeless atmosphere.
 
  • Nearest airport: Venice Marco Polo (13 km) 
  • Recommended cities for accommodation: Venice itself, Mestre 
  • When: from February 27 to March 13 
 
The Viareggio Carnival 2025 
 

Located on the beautiful Tuscan coast, the Viareggio Carnival is famous for its imposing papier-mâché allegorical floats, masterpieces of art and satire. The protagonist of the festival is Burlamacco, the symbol mask of Viareggio. The parades, accompanied by music and shows, provide ideal entertainment for families with children.
 
  • Nearest airport: Pisa Galileo Galilei (32 km) 
  • Recommended cities for accommodation: Viareggio, Lucca 
  • When: from February 8 to March 4, with parades every weekend 
 
The Putignano Carnival 2025 
 
The Putignano Carnival, in Puglia, is the oldest in Italy, with 617 years of history. This festival stands out for its long duration, with events starting as early as Christmas. The mask of Farinella is the symbol of the Carnival, combining historical traditions with modern entertainment, including parades, shows, and workshops for children.
 
  • Nearest airport: Bari Karol Wojtyla (55 km) 
  • Recommended cities for accommodation: Putignano, Alberobello 
  • When: from February 2 to 25, with a parade every weekend 
 
The Ivrea Carnival 2025 
 

Credits "Storico Carnevale di Ivrea"

Known for the famous Battle of the Oranges, the Ivrea Carnival is a unique celebration that commemorates the popular uprising of 1194. The streets of the city fill with color and adrenaline as teams of "orange throwers" recreate the historic revolt. This Carnival is perfect for those seeking an event full of symbolism and participation.
 
  • Nearest airport: Turin Caselle (46 km) 
  • Recommended cities for accommodation: Ivrea, Turin 
  • When: from March 1 to 4 
 
The Sa Sartiglia Carnival 2025 

Credits Sartiglia Magazine

Celebrated in Oristano, Sardinia, the Sa Sartiglia Carnival is renowned for its equestrian tournament. Skilled knights, led by Su Componidori, compete in a breathtaking race to spear a suspended star. This event, dating back to the 16th century, is steeped in tradition and spectacle. 
 
  • Nearest airport: Cagliari Elmas (91 km) 
  • Recommended cities for accommodation: Oristano, Cagliari 
  • When: from March 2 to 4 
 
 
TRADITIONAL ITALIAN CARNIVAL SWEETS 
 

Carnival in Italy is a triumph of sweets! Each region has its own specialties, but some treats are common across the entire country: 
 
  • Chiacchiere: crispy fried dough sheets dusted with powdered sugar. 
  • Castagnole: soft sweet dough balls, either fried or baked. 
  • Frittelle di riso: traditional in Tuscany and Veneto, often flavored with orange or lemon. 
 
There are also local variations, such as the Neapolitan zeppole and Roman frappe, perfect for accompanying the celebrations. 
 
 
EXAMPLES OF TRIPS FOR CARNIVAL IN ITALY 
 
Planning a vacation during Italian Carnival is simple and full of possibilities. Here are some ideas: 
 
  • Romantic weekend in Venice: direct flights and stay in a boutique hotel in the heart of the lagoon. 
  • Families in Viareggio: all-inclusive packages with tickets for the parades and activities for children. 
  • Historical tour in Puglia: exploration of Putignano and Alberobello, with tastings of local products. 
 
Book your holiday with Charming Italy 
 
Experience the magic of Italian Carnival, travel with Charming Italy!  
 
For 2025, we suggest 2 unmissable Smart Trips to experience Carnival in Sardinia. You'll find an experience that goes beyond the festivities: this trip will be an opportunity for an unforgettable adventure with the whole family.  
 
You'll discover authentic traditions, taste local flavors, and finally, be swept away by the unique magic of Sardinia's celebrations!  
 
Choose between our 2 proposals for Carnival 2025: 

Offer available exclusively for Carnival 2025. Book now! 
 
Travel with Charming Italy to Sardinia 
and let yourself be captivated by the magic of Carnival! 
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Le Alcove (Puglia)
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