Carnival is one of the most colourful and popular festivities in Abruzzo. Celebrated in February, before the start of Lent, it still retains some old pagan rituals and deep-rooted traditions of rural Abruzzo. Some rituals may seem obscure to outsiders, but asking locals can provide insight into the history behind their festivals. That said, Carnival in Abruzzo is always filled with laughter, music, humour, and good food—making it an experience anyone can enjoy. If you’re wondering what to do in Abruzzo during Carnival, this guide will take you through the most interesting and oldest festive events across the region.
A Brief History of Carnival in Abruzzo
The origins of Carnival date back to ancient times, with connections to Roman Saturnalia, Greek Dionysian festivals, and even earlier fertility rites. These celebrations allowed people to break free from daily routines, indulge in merrymaking, and wear masks to blur social distinctions. With the arrival of Christianity, Carnival became a time of feasting before the fasting period of Lent. In fact, the term Carnevale comes from the Latin carnem levare, meaning “to remove meat,” symbolising the last indulgence before the Lenten fast.
In Abruzzo, most events take place the last weekend before Lent (this year, it starts on March 5). From elaborate floats to traditional masks and bright costumes, here are some of the best traditional Carnival destinations.

Francavilla al Mare (CH)
When: February 23, March 2, 4
The Francavilla al Mare Carnival is the region’s most historic celebration, now in its 70th edition. The parade features large, hand-crafted papier-mâché floats, lively music, and performances. The festival’s iconic mask, Patanello, is inspired by a local cobbler from the late 19th century, adding a touch of local history to the fun. You need to buy a ticket (price €5; sold online) to access the celebrations. See the full programme on the event’s page.

Città Sant’Angelo (TE)
When: March 2, 4
One of the most beautiful Carnival celebrations in the region, it has become an important part of local life since its first updated edition in 1993. The Carnival of ‘Ndirucce combines old folkloristic elements with a more modern addition of a costumed parade, which makes it truly special. Read more about the Carnival in Città Sant’Angelo in our article here.

Sant’Egidio alla Vibrata (TE)
When: March 2, 4
The Carnival of Sant’Egidio alla Vibrata is set to make a grand return this March after a hiatus since 2017, bringing back its much-loved celebration in its 30th edition. This year, seven of the town’s districts will take part, parading through the streets in elaborate costumes and masks, accompanied by impressive, hand-crafted floats. See the details on the event’s page.

Schiavi d’Abruzzo (CH)
When: March 1, 4
The historic Carnival procession of the Mazzaroni in Schiavi di Abruzzo is a lively and centuries-old tradition, one of the few celebrations that still has ancient elements of a local peasant culture. Led by Pulcinella, a symbolic figure of power and renewal, the young men of the village, wearing elaborate headpieces adorned with paper flowers and ribbons, perform ritual dances like la spallata, guided by the canto allusive, a chant that contains hidden “commands”, unique to each community, instructing the dancers on how to form different choreographic patterns. Moving from house to house, they bring music, laughter, and theatrical performances, receiving wine, sausages, and sweets in return. The parade starts in the morning on Piazza Purgatorio and weaves through the town’s streets. The full programme and itinerary will be published on the orgarnisers’ page.

Castiglione Messer Marino (CH)
When: March 2
Another colourful celebration featuring handcrafted headdresses adorned with colourful paper flowers and ribbons worn by Pulgenelle. Their lively procession through the village, filled with bells, music, and playful banter, culminates in a dramatic dance known as the zumbarèlle. The event is also a chance to savour sagne al cotturo, a traditional pasta dish with legendary origins. Discover more about this unique festival in our latest issue of ABRUZZISSIMO available here. See the full programme on the Pulgenella Castiglionese page.
Luco dei Marsi (AQ)
When: March 1
Now in its 41st edition, the Carnival of Luco Dei Marsi is a small, but lively celebration featuring a grand costumed parade, a marching band, and festive street performances starting at 2pm on Via Duca degli Abruzzi. In the evening, the team with the best costumes will be awarded and everyone will enjoy street food and Carnival treats in Piazza Umberto I. For more details see the dedicated page.
Indulge in Traditional Carnival Sweets
Carnival is also a time for indulgence, and Abruzzo has its share of delicious treats. Try chiacchiere (crispy fried pastries dusted with sugar), castagnole (small fried dough balls), and cicerchiata (honey-coated dough clusters). These sweets are a must-try during the festivities. Read more about traditional Carnival treats in this issue of ABRUZZISSIMO.