Viareggio Carnival

Italy

February 1 to 21, 2026

Essential Guide to the Viareggio Carnival 2026

Giant floats, beautiful masks, hypnotic dances, joy, and fun.

The Viareggio Carnival is one of the most famous carnival celebrations in the world, where you will be fascinated by its stunning giant floats made of papier-mâché, which can reach up to 30 meters in height.

This Italian carnival is celebrated for a whole month and showcases its beauty with giant floats, beautiful masks, hypnotic dances, and Viareggio carnival songs that attract over 600,000 people each year to enjoy this unparalleled spectacle.

When is the Viareggio Carnival 2026

The Viareggio Carnival takes place over an entire month leading up to Lent. During this time, the streets are filled with joy and color with its incredible giant float parades.

When will the events and parades of the Viareggio Carnival take place in 2026?

The carnival events and parades, also known as Masked Courses, start on February 1 and end on February 21, 2026.

During these days, you can enjoy six different float parades.

Main Events and Programme of The Viareggio Carnival

Sunday, 1st February

1st Opening Parade

Saturday, 7th February

2nd Evening Parade

Shrove Thursday, 12th February

3rd Evening Parade

Sunday, 15th February

4th Parade

17th February

5th Parade

Saturday, 21st February

6th Closing Evening Parade

Sunday, 1st February

1st Opening Parade

Saturday, 7th February

2nd Evening Parade

Shrove Thursday, 12th February

3rd Evening Parade

Sunday, 15th February

4th Parade

17th February

5th Parade

Saturday, 21st February

6th Closing Evening Parade

The Viareggio Carnival's world famous Giant Float Parades

The main reason why the Viareggio Carnival is so famous worldwide is because of its giant papier-mâché floats, which are satirical inspirations of the current socioeconomic world.

The impressive floats of the Viareggio carnival usually measure about 30 meters in height and weigh around 40 tons. Some floats can be choreographed with their own music and accompanying dancers.

The carnival artists usually prepare the sketches and designs of the floats months in advance in their workshops and hangars in the Cittadella del Carnevale, where these majestic creations of wood and paper are stored and assembled.

People from all over the world move freely along the coastal boulevards to witness the spectacular uniqueness of the Viareggio Carnival floats.

When the carnival parades start, known as Corsi Mascherati, the Viareggio carnival songs begin to play, filling the streets with joy, dance, music, freedom, color, and fun.

Street vendors offer their drinks, food, and typical sweets, filling the air with delicious aromas, while jugglers entertain the spectators.

Making this an experience everyone needs to see at least once in their lifetime.Katie Morgans, Travel Writer en The Italy Edit

Where the Carnival of Viareggio is celebrated

The Viareggio Carnival is celebrated in the beautiful coastal town of Viareggio, located in the Tuscany region of Italy.

The different carnival parades take place along La Passeggiata, on the Viali a Mare, a beautiful boulevard that runs along the beach and is filled with Liberty-style buildings.

The route runs for about 2 km. Spectators position themselves on both sides of the boulevard to enjoy the magnificent spectacle.

The main venues for the veglioni colorati or colorful night dances are Marco Polo, Darsena, Croce Verde, and Torre del Lago. Other locations include Varignano, Terminetto, Vecchia Viareggio, Quattro Venti, and Migliarina.

Photos of the Viareggio Carnival

History of the Carnival of Viareggio

The Viareggio Carnival was founded in 1873, when a group of artisans and sculptors began building impressive carriages. It soon became a popular, joyful, and lively festival throughout the city. At first, it was celebrated in the heart of the old town at Via Regia. In the early 20th century, it was moved to the long street that runs along the coast and grew in size and popularity year after year.

During World War I, it was halted until 1921 and again during World War II until 1946, when the Viareggio Carnival flourished once again and was even more beautiful than before.

Since its inception, the citizens use this parade to freely express their ideas and “mock,” always with respect, the elite.

The popularity of this Italian carnival continues to grow, and it is now widely considered to be the largest folk event in Italy.

Burlamacco

The symbol of the Viareggio Carnival is Burlamacco, created by Umberto Bonetti in the 1930s, inspired by prominent characters of the time such as Balanzone, Pierrot, and Rugantino.

Burlamacco is present in the six carnival parades. He is accompanied by Odina, his companion, on his float. Together they symbolize the two emblematic seasons of the city of Viareggio: carnival and summer.

In addition to Burlamacco, other characters have emerged such as Faraboletto, Burlanotte, Marcopolino, Pincianello, and Ondina, his companion and symbol of the summer of Viareggio.

The Cittadella and Carnival Museum

In 2001, the Cittadella del Carnevale was inaugurated, an extraordinary architectural complex entirely dedicated to the creation and preservation of the Viareggio Carnival. It boasts sixteen hangars where the allegorical floats are constructed, overlooking a giant elliptical square.

The Cittadella is also the place where, during the summer, the biggest outdoor events are held. It houses two museums: the Museum of Papier-Mâché, dedicated to the history of the carnival floats, and the Contemporary Art Museum Carnevalotto, which hosts a valuable collection of artworks created by contemporary designers.

Viareggio Carnival Night Parties

As expected, the carnival does not end when the parades finish, the party continues outdoors with the veglioni colorati or colorful night dances.

The streets are closed to traffic, bars and restaurants open with carnival music, and people come in costumes to continue enjoying the celebration.

Restaurants offer delicious local recipes and Viareggio specialties based on fresh fish at very affordable prices.

From 11 p.m., everything transforms into a frantic party where carnival bands and DJs provide an unparalleled show, inviting everyone to enjoy the Viareggio Carnival.

If you want more information, you can always visit their official websiteOfficial Website

Viareggio Carnival Tips

The best tips for the Viareggio carnival.

Plan ahead by checking the official website for information about the dates and events taking place.
Make sure to book your accommodation in advance to be close to the action, as Viareggio fills up during carnival.
The weather can vary, so we recommend bringing comfortable clothing that keeps you warm but doesn’t cause overheating. Be sure to wear comfortable footwear.
Arrive early to the parades to secure a good spot, as they are must-see events and fill up quickly.
Don’t forget to bring some food and drink to stay energized while enjoying the carnival.
Keep an eye on and secure your valuables against potential pickpockets.
Aside from the parades, there are performances, workshops, and other activities that take place during those days.
Immerse yourself in the local culture and take the opportunity to learn about Tuscan traditions and gastronomy.
Don’t forget to capture and immortalize all the vibrant moments you experience with your camera or mobile phone.
Let yourself be carried away by the energy of the carnival, join the veglioni colorati or colorful night dances, and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

What to See and Do in Viareggio Carnival

You have no idea what to do, what to see, where to stay, where to eat, how to get there, or what to bring to make sure you don’t miss the Viareggio Carnival. Don’t worry; here we’ll tell you everything you need. Just get ready to enjoy it like never before.

What to Do

What to do at the Viareggio Carnival? In Viareggio, you can enjoy its famous beach, known for its wide promenade and elegant bars and restaurants. The city is famous for its Carnival, one of the most important in Italy, with parades filled with floats and costumes.

In the city center, you can explore the art nouveau architecture and the marina, which is ideal for a stroll.

For culture lovers, the Carnival Museum and the Civic Pinacoteca offer fascinating exhibitions.

Additionally, you can take trips to the nearby city of Pisa or enjoy nature in the surroundings of the Tuscany region.

What to See

What to see at the Viareggio Carnival? Viareggio, on the coast of Tuscany, is famous for its beautiful promenade and its golden sandy beaches. You can explore its iconic port, enjoy the art deco architecture around Piazza Maria Luisa, and visit the Modern Art Museum, which houses contemporary works.

Don’t miss its annual carnival, one of the most important in Italy. You can also stroll along the pier, walk through the Pineta di Ponente Park, and take boat or bicycle trips around the area.

Viareggio is also an excellent starting point to explore Pisa and the Cinque Terre.

Where to Stay

Where to stay during the Viareggio Carnival? There is a wide range of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets in Viareggio.

If you’re looking for luxury, you can choose the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte, with sea views and an exclusive spa.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, there are numerous 3-star hotels, such as the Hotel Londra, close to the beach. You can also opt for apartments or rental homes, such as those available on Airbnb, ideal for longer stays.

If you prefer a more local atmosphere, there are charming bed and breakfasts like B&B La Chiesina. The city offers options both beachfront and in the historic center.

What to Eat

Where to eat during the Viareggio Carnival? In Viareggio, there is a great variety of dining options. If you’re looking for fresh seafood, two excellent options are Trattoria Da Achille and Ristorante da Bruno, which offer typical coastal dishes.

If you want a more sophisticated experience, The Pink Restaurant is ideal, with an innovative menu and sea views.

If you prefer pizza, you will find an excellent selection at Pizzeria L'Angolo.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, Bar Lombardo is perfect for having an espresso accompanied by pastries.

And if you want to try local cuisine with a contemporary twist, we recommend La Taverna del Capitano.

How to Get There

How to get to the Viareggio Carnival? To reach Viareggio, you have several options depending on your location.

If you are coming from outside Italy, the nearest airport is in Pisa (about 30 km away), from where there are train or bus connections to Viareggio. You can also fly to the airports in Florence or Genoa, which are about two hours away by train.

If you are traveling within Italy, Viareggio is well connected by train from major cities such as Rome, Florence, and Pisa. In addition, you can choose to drive via the A11 highway, which connects Florence to the coast.

What to Bring

What to bring to the Viareggio Carnival? Bring comfortable and lightweight clothing for the day, as celebrations take place outdoors. Don’t forget to wear a creative costume, as this event is famous for its floats and colorfully whimsical parades.

You can opt for a thematic costume, such as a historical, mythological, or comedic character, or a traditional carnival costume with a venetian mask.

Additionally, include comfortable footwear, sunscreen, a light jacket or coat in case it gets chilly, and accessories like fun hats or wigs.

Don’t forget your camera to capture the magic of the event.

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