Romagna’s Carnival: A Kaleidoscope of Festive Parades

The Romagna region explodes with jubilant Carnival celebrations during the final weekend of the festive season. Towns and cities transform into vibrant stages, where music fills the air and fantastical characters spring to life. The roots of these festivities are ancient, possibly stemming from pagan religious rites where masks were believed to ward off evil spirits. Today, Carnival remains a cornerstone of popular culture, offering a joyous display of communal fun. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider these spectacular Romagna locations: Ravenna province hosts a diverse array of events, culminating in the Children’s Carnival, showcasing a dazzling parade of floats on Sunday, February 7th, 2016, at 2:30 PM in Punta Marina Terme. The vibrant procession will bring music and revelry to the town center. Civitella di Romagna’s Carnival, a longstanding tradition continuously reinvented, features a captivating parade of masks, floats, bands, and majorettes on Sunday, February 7th, 2016. Costumed groups from surrounding villages join in, guaranteeing an afternoon of entertainment and time-honored customs. In Imola, the unique “Carnival of Fantavehicles” takes center stage. These imaginative creations, constructed from bicycles, wheelbarrows, and other common items, are a testament to ingenuity and artistic flair, their designs showcasing themes, costumes, or elaborate embellishments. The parade commences on Sunday, February 7th, 2016, at the Enzo and Dino Ferrari racetrack, followed by festive treats including mulled wine, hot chocolate, fritters, and cotton candy. Santarcangelo, the region’s most charming historic village, presents its 14th Masked Parade on Sunday, February 14th, 2016, at 2:30 PM. The lively spectacle includes floats, miniature trains, costumed groups, dance schools, and quirky vehicles, creating an atmosphere of pure exhilaration. Delicious treats such as crepes, hot chocolate, mulled wine, doughnuts, and pastries add to the joyous atmosphere. Granarolo Faentino, in the province of Faenza, offers two Carnival celebrations on Sunday, February 7th, and Tuesday, February 9th, 2016. Master artisans and set designers create stunning papier-mâché allegories that parade through the streets. Delightful sweets, along with regional culinary delicacies like piadina, sausage, “bisò,” and fine wine, complete the experience. Finally, the historic Carnival of Gambettola, scheduled for March 28th (Easter Monday), promises another memorable event. Further details will follow soon. Enjoy the festivities! Stay updated on recipes, events, and celebrations! Subscribe to our newsletter!