Alba Carnival

Alba Carnival: Langhe tradition in the heart of Alba

The Alba Carnival is the annual event that brings life to Alba, the capital of the Langhe in the Province of Cuneo, Piedmont. It is organized by the Famija Albèisa, the association that preserves local traditions and brings the two historic carnival masks back to the spotlight: Lasagnon and Ciucia Barlet. These figures are deeply rooted in the local imagination as authentic symbols of Langhe folk culture: Lasagnon represents the wealthy country bourgeois, while Ciucia Barlet evokes the world of wine, the true soul of this territory.

Masks around the city: celebration and solidarity

More than just a parade, the Alba Carnival is a weeks-long journey that weaves together celebration and social commitment. In the days leading up to the main event, Lasagnon and Ciucia Barlet accompany the Famija Albèisa on a series of charity visits: to kindergartens in Alba and surrounding towns, the Bishop, the Mayor and the City Council, the Fire Department, nursing homes, and local healthcare facilities, including the Verduno hospital. This is the so-called Carlevé benéfich, which brings joy and color to those who often cannot go out to celebrate.

The Children's Grand Ball

The heart of the festival is the Children's Grand Ball, the most anticipated event dedicated to the little ones. Children in costume, accompanied by adults, gather in Piazza Michele Ferrero and parade through the streets of the historic center to the Palazzo Mostre e Congressi, where a grand party with music, games, and entertainment begins. Alongside the masks from the city districts, the famous Piedmontese masks Gianduja and Giacometta, symbols of the Turin Carnival, also join the parade.

The districts: Mussotto and the Carvé Vej

The Alba Carnival is not limited to the center; it also involves the surrounding districts. The Mussotto d'Alba district organizes its own Children's Carnival, featuring entertainment, DJs, shows, and the unmissable polenta with sausage. In Piana Biglini, the Carvé Vej (Old Carnival) takes place, traditionally closing the festive period. Raffles with hundreds of prizes and convivial moments complete a calendar designed for families and the entire Alba community.

A community Carnival

Simple yet deeply felt, the Alba Carnival is an opportunity to rediscover the roots of Alba and the Langhe through its masks, its local dialect, and the spirit of solidarity that distinguishes it. An event that speaks primarily to children and families, but involves the entire city.