Buti Carnival

Buti Carnival: A local celebration in the heart of Tuscany

A few kilometers from Pisa, perched on the slopes of Monte Pisano, the town of Buti hosts one of its most cherished traditions: the Buti Carnival. Far from the large tourist-heavy carnivals, this event preserves the genuine soul of a village festival, where families, children, and local associations fill the streets and the central Piazza Garibaldi. It is a community-focused carnival that still manages to attract visitors from across the province of Pisa and the wider Tuscany region.

Masks, confetti, and delicious frati

The heart of the event is the Children's Carnival, which transforms Piazza Garibaldi into a large playground during the festive afternoons. Inflatables, music, entertainment, confetti, and streamers accompany the most colorful hours of the day, while the air fills with the scent of frati—the typical sweet fritters that are the undisputed stars of the carnival period in Tuscany. Between improvised costumes and carefully crafted masks, the little ones are the true stars of the show.

The Shrove Tuesday costume party

The highlight arrives on Shrove Tuesday, when the square changes its face and becomes the stage for a grand evening costume party. Live music and DJ sets liven up the night, designed for adults but open to anyone who wants to dance in costume until late. It is the ideal closing for the Carnival, a collective farewell that puts the final touch on a season of joy.

A deeply rooted tradition

The Buti Carnival is organized by the Pro Loco of Buti with the support of the Municipality and is the result of the voluntary work of local associations. It is part of a rich calendar of events that mark the Buti year, from the Chestnut Festival in autumn to summer festivities, and represents one of the moments when the community gathers in the square to rediscover the simple pleasure of being together. For those visiting the province of Pisa and Tuscany during the winter, it is an authentic opportunity to experience a popular carnival away from the most crowded circuits.

Why it's worth it

• A free festival suitable for all ages, held in the historic center of Buti.
• Traditional Tuscan frati, the quintessential carnival sweets.
• The grand evening costume party on Shrove Tuesday with music and DJs.
• The authentic atmosphere of a village carnival on Monte Pisano.