Carnival in Viareggio: Floats in Tuscany

Known for its massive papier-mâché floats that satirise political and cultural figures, Viareggio’s float parade creates a vibrant atmosphere with colorful costumes, music, and festivities.

The parades draw thousands of visitors of all ages, who come to see both the spectacular floats and parade as well as participate in the festive air that can be breathed in the town on the days of the masquerade processions.

The “Carnevale di Viareggio” actually takes place over an entire month with 6 days of parades each year. These are held on 4 Saturdays/Sundays and one on Fat Thursday and another on Fat Tuesday. The parades take place between the end of January and beginning of March, in the fours weeks that precede

The Carnival in Viareggio is not just for adults, children are more than welcome and have loads of fun together with their parents. The whole procession takes place during daylight hours, in great celebration with everyone in costumes one way or another and lots of music. The festive spirit draws everyone to join in and dance around as well.

*** Carnevale di Viareggio 2026 ***

Sunday, February 1st – 3:00 PM 1st Opening Masked Parade Followed by a fireworks display Saturday,

February 7th – 5:00 PM 2nd Night Masked Parade

,February 12th – 5:00 PM 3rd Night Masked Parade

Sunday, February 15th – 3:00 PM 4th Masked Parade

Fat Tuesday, February 17th – 3:00 PM 5th Masked Parade

Saturday, February 21st – 5:00 PM 6th Closing Night Masked Parade Followed by the announcement of the winners and a fireworks display

 

Where: along the promenade, the streets that run parallel to the beach in Viareggio (starting at Piazza Mazzini)