In Florence, there's a strange rain, a shower of confetti! Carnival 2026 looks set to be one of the liveliest in recent years, combining the elegance of history with the unbridled joy that only this festival can bring. For those of you studying Italian here in the city, it's the perfect opportunity to learn new expressions, taste delicious sweets, and experience local culture outside of textbooks.
What's happening in the city: dates to mark
This year, the heart of the celebrations beats between the end of January and mid-February.
● The Grand Parade (February 1): The highlight of the city's Carnival. A colorful procession will depart from Piazza Santa Maria Novella and arrive in Piazza della Signoria. Expect musicians, flag-throwers, and spectacular masks parading in front of the world's most famous monuments.
● Carnival of Peace (February 15): A multicultural event in the neighborhoods outside the city center, Isolotto and Villa Vogel, where the city's diverse communities meet with music and dance from around the world.
● Mardi Gras (February 17): The grand finale! In addition to the celebrations in the various neighborhoods (such as Galluzzo or Nave a Rovezzano), don't miss the traditional Carnival Concert at the Teatro Verdi, performed by the Orchestra della Toscana. It's the most elegant way to bid farewell to the festivities before the Lenten season.
Who is Stenterello? The Mask of Florence
You can't say you know the Florentine Carnival without meeting Stenterello. Born in the late 18th century, he is the typical mask of our city. He represents the Florentine commoner: thin, a bit shabby (hence the name "stentato"), but sharp-tongued, always ready with a joke, and incredibly generous. Look for him in the crowd: you'll recognize him by his blue jacket, yellow waistcoat, and his unmistakable, controversial yet friendly spirit!
What to do (and especially what to eat!)
Experiencing Carnival in Florence means immersing yourself in the senses: sight, and especially taste. Here are our tips for you students:
1. Stock up on Cenci and Frittelle: Go into a pastry shop and ask for "Cenci" (fried dough strips covered in powdered sugar) and "Frittelle di riso." Keep in mind: they're addictive!
2. Learn the sayings: In Italy, we say "A Carnevale ogni scherzo vale" (At Carnevale, anything goes). This is the perfect time to use more informal and joking language with your classmates.
3. Mask up: You don't need an expensive costume; even a small mask over your eyes will make you feel part of the party as you stroll through the streets of the city center.
A day trip out of town: The Viareggio Carnival
If you want to see "the giants," you absolutely must take a train to Viareggio. Less than an hour from Florence, one of Europe's most famous carnivals takes place. Legendary papier-mâché floats parade here: enormous structures up to 20 meters tall that satirically depict politicians, artists, and current affairs. The parades along the seafront promenade are an overwhelming experience of music and creative engineering. The key dates for 2026 are February 1, 7, 12, 15, 17, and 21.
Here's your Tuscan February! And if you want to live it like an Italian, check out our Italian language courses in Florence!
Scuola Leonardo da Vinci Florence
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