Campobasso Carnival – The Mesaiola Parade
The twelve months of the Mesaiola parade through the historic center
About Campobasso Carnival
A tradition with medieval roots
The Campobasso Carnival has its origins in the Middle Ages, when carnival performances served as a propitiatory rite to ward off evil spirits. It remains one of the most cherished winter events in the capital of Molise.
The Mesaiola
The most distinctive element is the Mesaiola parade: twelve characters in elegant period costumes representing the twelve months of the year, parading from Piazza Municipio to Piazza San Francesco. Alongside them are the papier-mâché floats, created by local artisans, and traditional Molise masks, from the Devil to brigands, with figures like the Verde Auliva, linked to rural life.
Rites and songs
- The popular song "Ziu zi ziu zi", recalling local figures from the early 20th century
- The burning of King Carnival and the effigy of Quarantena (Lent), closing the festivities
- Collaboration with the Parish of San Giuseppe Artigiano and folklore associations
The Campobasso Carnival thus blends religious and pagan elements, keeping alive a popular memory that connects the city to its ancient history.
Campobasso Carnival — edition 2026
The Campobasso Carnival 2026 takes place during the carnival season, between Fat Thursday (February 12th) and Fat Tuesday (February 17th). The highlight is the Mesaiola parade, with the twelve-month characters, papier-mâché floats, and traditional masks, culminating in the burning of King Carnival and the effigy of Quarantena (Lent).
Programme Campobasso Carnival 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be announced by the Municipality of Campobasso. The traditional structure of the festival includes:
- From 4:30 PM — Mesaiola parade of the twelve months in costume, with papier-mâché floats and traditional masks (Devil, brigands, Verde Auliva)
- Procession from Piazza Municipio to Piazza San Francesco, accompanied by the song "Ziu zi ziu zi"
- Closing ceremony — burning of King Carnival and the effigy of Quarantena
Highlights Campobasso Carnival 2026
Prices Campobasso Carnival 2026
Practical information — Campobasso Carnival
How to get there
Campobasso is reachable by car via the SS17 and SS647 roads and by train on the lines to Termoli and Isernia. The parade can be followed through the historic center, along the route from Piazza Municipio to Piazza San Francesco.
Tips
Outdoor and free event. Wear warm clothing: Carnival falls in the heart of winter.
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Where does it take place — Campobasso Carnival
Centro storico di Campobasso
Piazza Municipio, 86100 Campobasso