Beyond Venice: Discovering Italy’s Most Authentic Carnivals

When the world thinks of Italian carnivals, Venice’s iconic masked revelers and opulent costumes often come to mind first. While Venice’s Carnival is undeniably stunning, Italy is home to a rich variety of lesser-known, yet equally vibrant, carnival celebrations. Spread across the country, these carnivals are rooted in local traditions, offering visitors a more authentic, intimate glimpse into Italy’s cultural diversity. From centuries-old customs to extravagant parades, these carnivals reveal a side of Italy that is often overlooked by those captivated solely by the allure of Venice.

Ivrea’s Historic Orange Battle

Few carnival traditions are as unique—and as messy—as the Battaglia delle Arance (Battle of the Oranges) in Ivrea, a small town in northern Italy. Every year, thousands gather to reenact a centuries-old legend in which townspeople, armed with oranges, symbolize their rebellion against an oppressive medieval ruler. Participants on foot represent the rebelling masses, while others, standing on horse-drawn carts, represent the tyrant’s army.

This vibrant and chaotic tradition dates back to the 19th century, though it is inspired by much older legends of liberty and justice. The sight of flying oranges and the deafening sounds of battle create an electric atmosphere, but the event is not all about the fruit flinging. The carnival also includes processions, medieval music, and historical reenactments, making it one of Italy’s most distinctive and captivating celebrations.

Viareggio: A Carnival of Satire and Spectacle

While Venice may have its masks, the coastal city of Viareggio is known for its elaborate, satirical floats. Since the late 19th century, the Carnevale di Viareggio has captivated onlookers with massive, intricately designed papier-mâché floats that parade through the streets. What sets this carnival apart is its focus on political and social satire, with many of the floats humorously critiquing contemporary figures and global events.

Artists work tirelessly for months to bring these colossal creations to life, using bright colors and exaggerated forms to convey their messages. The result is a carnival that feels both playful and thought-provoking, offering a fun yet reflective commentary on the world. In addition to the parade, Viareggio’s carnival includes concerts, street performances, and fireworks, making it a full-fledged cultural experience along the Tuscan coast.

Cento: Italy’s Global Carnival

For a small town in Emilia-Romagna, Cento’s carnival punches well above its weight. In fact, Carnevale di Cento has been officially twinned with Rio de Janeiro’s world-famous carnival, and it’s easy to see why. The town's lively parades and extravagant floats are reminiscent of Brazil’s exuberant celebrations, blending Italian tradition with a global flair.

One of the highlights of the Cento carnival is the gettito, where candy and toys are thrown from the elaborate floats to the crowds below. This gesture symbolizes the carnival’s spirit of generosity and community. The event draws thousands of visitors each year, eager to witness the spectacle and partake in the festive atmosphere. Cento’s ability to maintain its traditional roots while embracing international carnival elements makes it one of Italy’s most exciting and diverse celebrations.

Acireale: Sicily’s Floral Extravaganza

For travelers seeking a more picturesque carnival experience, the town of Acireale in Sicily offers something truly unique. The Carnevale di Acireale is known for its breathtaking floral floats, which are carefully adorned with fresh blooms arranged in intricate patterns. These floral creations glide through the streets alongside traditional papier-mâché floats, creating a visual feast that blends nature with artistry.

The floral tradition of Acireale’s carnival dates back to the early 20th century, and the event has since become one of Sicily’s most beloved festivals. In addition to the floats, the carnival includes live music, theatrical performances, and street vendors offering local delicacies. Set against the backdrop of Acireale’s Baroque architecture, the carnival feels like a celebration of both Sicily’s natural beauty and its rich artistic heritage.

Mamoiada’s Mysterious Masked Processions

For a completely different carnival experience, one that delves into ancient traditions and mysterious rites, travelers should head to the small village of Mamoiada in Sardinia. The Mamuthones and Issohadores, the main participants in the village’s carnival, don striking traditional costumes that evoke Sardinia’s deep-rooted ties to agrarian rituals and ancestral customs.

The Mamuthones wear black masks, fur cloaks, and heavy cowbells, moving in solemn processions through the streets, symbolizing ancient rites of protection and purification. In contrast, the Issohadores, dressed in white and red, move more dynamically, capturing onlookers in symbolic gestures with ropes. This ancient ritual, steeped in mystery, is believed to date back thousands of years and offers a unique window into Sardinia’s cultural identity.

While Mamoiada’s carnival is less about grand spectacles and more about preserving a mysterious, age-old tradition, it remains one of Italy’s most intriguing and culturally significant carnivals.

Oristano: Jousting in Medieval Style

Another Sardinian carnival, the Sartiglia in Oristano, transports visitors back to medieval times with its thrilling equestrian displays. Originating in the 16th century, this event centers around a horseback jousting tournament in which riders, clad in ornate costumes and masks, attempt to spear a suspended star-shaped target while galloping at full speed. The success of the riders is said to predict the agricultural prosperity of the coming year, making it an event deeply tied to local traditions and beliefs.

The Sartiglia is not just a display of skill but a highly ceremonial event, with blessings and rituals performed before the joust begins. The carnival also includes folk dancing, music, and feasts, all of which contribute to the lively atmosphere of this historic celebration.