Viareggio Carnival 2026

WHERE: Viareggio, Italy
WHEN: from 01st to 21st February 2026

An event that has roots rooted in time, where art and tradition blend perfectly.
The Carnival par excellence that, over the years, has managed to enhance itself, renewing itself and introducing important innovations. This year ready to celebrate its 152nd anniversary.

Today, the Viareggio Carnival is considered one of the most important events in Europe. A celebration that embodies the very essence of the Viareggio people, particularly linked to their traditions. Since 1873, year of the very first edition of the event.

Here, everything is art. Starting from papier-mâché. Simple materials such as water, glue, chalk and paper, are transformed into real works of art, on display along the walkway to the sea and even in a citadel, which can be visited all year round. Because, Carnival, around here is much more than just a party.

Exhibitions. Permanent museums and even a football tournament, a showcase for promising players of the future. And, of course, lots of events and fun including masked courses, great shows, pyrotechnic shows and local festivals …

In Viareggio, the carnival lasts all year. This explains, therefore, the creation of a large Carnival Citadel and, inside, the interesting Museum of Carnival. A cutting-edge complex that offers workshops, workshops, workshops and activities, all focused on carnival. All the year.

So, do not delay and choose one of the most beautiful and spectacular Italian Carnivals. An event that will certainly give a lot of emotions to visitors of all ages.

PRACTICAL INFO

HOW TO GET

You can reach the city easily, by plane, landing at Pisa airport. Every day, bus connections are guaranteed with the city, with the E25 ViaBus extra-urban line. Alternatively, you can rent a car directly at the airport, and reach Viareggio.

The city is also served by a convenient, efficient road network. You can arrive by car, from all directions.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE

Papier-mâché giants parade along the catwalk every year. The Masked courses represent one of the most anticipated and spectacular events of the Viareggio Carnival. All made by skilled master craftsmen, tall over 20 meters, to amaze all visitors. You can admire 6 of them, from Sunday 01st to Saturday 21st February 2026.
After the triple shot of cannon, you will see parading majestic, and spectacular, allegorical floats, between music and dancing. At the end of the Masked Opening and closing Courses, there will be a fantastic fireworks display.

The Local festivals, represent, instead, the essence of popular tradition. During certain weekends, whole neighborhoods offer visitors a lot of entertainment including dancing, singing, music, and an interesting gastronomic offer.

For the whole month of February, guided tours of the Museum and Cartapesta laboratories are organized in the Cittadella of Carnival. Truly fascinating is the visit to the Museum that allows you to learn more about the history, art and traditions of the carnival phenomenon. Don’t miss the section dedicated to Burlamacco and Ondina.