A Guide to Italy’s Carnivals in 2025

by Adriana ruiz

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Carnival in Italy is a vibrant and lively celebration that takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and reflection before Easter. The exact dates of Carnival vary each year, as they are determined by the lunar calendar. In 2025, Carnival in Italy will be celebrated between February 16 and March 4th, offering a mix of cultural events, parades, and festive traditions across the country.

Here are some of the most famous and unique Carnivals in Italy for 2025:

Carnival of Venice

On the 300th anniversary of his birth, the Venice Carnival returns to enchant the world from February 14 to March 4, 2025, with a special edition titled “The Time of Casanova”, dedicated to the timeless figure of the Venetian icon.

Dates: February 14 – March 4, 2025

Highlights:

Friday, 14th February:

• 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.: Piazza San Marco transforms into the heart of the Venice Carnival with magical performances and festivities to kick off the first weekend of celebration.

Sunday, 16th February:

• From 11:00 a.m.: The Venetian Water Parade starts with traditional boats along the Grand Canal, featuring colorful decorations, masked rowers, and the iconic papier-mâché “Pantegana,” culminating in a grand celebration at Erbaria near Rialto.

Saturday, 1st March:

• 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.: Venice Carnival Street Show takes over the city with street performances, music, circus acts, and clowns in iconic Venetian locations, spreading joy across the historic center, the mainland, and lagoon islands.

Sunday, 2nd March:

• 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.: Arsenale Water Show brings to life the adventures of Casanova through dance, music, and storytelling in a stunning, emotional performance that merges tradition and modernity.

22nd February – 4th March:

• From 7:00 p.m.: The Carnival Official Dinner Show at Ca’ Vendramin Calergi offers a luxurious masked ball with artistic performances, themed costumes, and an immersive journey back to the 18th century, celebrating passion and life. (Dress code: period costume or themed attire required.)

 

Carnival of Viareggio

One of Tuscany’s largest and most creative Carnivals, the Viareggio Carnival is famous for its massive papier-mâché floats that often depict political satire, celebrities, and current events. Each float is an artistic masterpiece accompanied by music and dancing.

Dates: February 8, – March 4, 2025

Highlights:

8th February 2025:

• 5:00 p.m.: Opening Parade on Lungomare di Viareggio. The carnival begins with the traditional triple cannon shot, marking the start of the first parade of the stunning allegorical floats created by Viareggio’s artists. The event includes an inauguration ceremony with a flag-raising and concludes with a spectacular fireworks display.

27th February 2025:

• 6:00 p.m.: Night Parade on Lungomare di Viareggio. On Fat Thursday, the allegorical floats return to dazzle the public in a magical nighttime setting, celebrating the carnival under the glow of lights.

4th March 2025:

• 3:00 p.m.: Closing Parade on Lungomare di Viareggio. The final day of the carnival, featuring the traditional Shrove Tuesday parade. The celebrations end with the announcement of jury awards for the competing floats and a grand fireworks display, bidding farewell until the next edition.

 

Carnival of Ivrea

This historical carnival in the Piedmont region is known for its unique “Battle of the Oranges.” It commemorates a medieval rebellion against a tyrannical lord and involves teams of orange-throwers reenacting the conflict.

Dates: Key events between February 16 – March 4, 2025

Highlights:

Sunday, February 23, 2025:

• 9:00 AM: Distribution of traditional “fagioli grassi” (hearty beans) at various locations, including Montenavale and Torre Balfredo.
• 12:00 PM: Historical reenactment of the reconciliation between the rival districts of San Maurizio and Borghetto on Ponte Vecchio.
• 2:30 PM: “Alzata degli Abbà” ceremony, where the Abbà (young representatives of each parish) are celebrated in a procession.

Sunday, March 2, 2025:

• 10:30 AM: The iconic “Preda in Dora” ceremony on Ponte Vecchio, symbolizing the rejection of tyranny by throwing a stone into the river.
• 2:00 PM: The famous “Battle of the Oranges” begins, with nine teams on foot engaging in a symbolic battle against orange-throwers on carriages in various squares.
• 5:30 PM: “Generala” performance in Piazza di Città to honor the General.

Tuesday, March 4, 2025 (Mardi Gras):

• 2:00 PM: Historical procession and the grand “Battle of the Oranges” across town squares.
• 9:30 PM: Burning of the Scarlo in Piazza di Città, symbolizing the end of Carnival festivities.
• 10:15 PM: Funeral of the Carnival with a somber march and final celebrations in Piazza Ottinetti.

 

Carnival of Cento

Located in Emilia-Romagna, the Cento Carnival is internationally recognized due to its partnership with the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro. It features vibrant floats, live music, and a festive atmosphere.

Dates: February 16 – March 16, 2025

Highlights:

16th February:

• 10:00 a.m.: Historical procession by “Compagnia del Gambero di Cento” at Rocca Castle.
• 10:30 a.m.: Musical show by “Istituto Lamborghini di Renazzo” and Ferrari parade on Corso Guercino street.
• 02:00 p.m.: Carnival parade by the five carnival associations.

16th March:

• 10:00 a.m.: Historical procession by “Compagnia del Gambero di Cento” at Rocca Castle.
• 02:00 p.m.: Final Carnival parade and award ceremony for the Cento Carnevale d’Europa winner.
• 06:00 p.m.: Tasi’s reading, pyre, and spectacular fireworks show.

23rd February:

• 10:00 a.m.: Historical procession at Rocca Castle and “Festa del Motore” along Corso Guercino.
• 02:00 p.m.: Carnival parade by the five carnival associations.
• 05:00 p.m.: Award ceremony “Benedetto 1964” on Piazza del Guercino’s stage.

 

Carnival in Italy is an unforgettable experience, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re captivated by the elegance of Venice, the creativity of Viareggio, or the historical charm of Ivrea, these festivities give you a window into Italy’s rich cultural heritage.

 

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