Capestrano Masquerade Carnival

Capestrano Masquerade Carnival

In the heart of the province of L'Aquila, in Abruzzo, the town of Capestrano celebrates its Masquerade Carnival every year, an event that draws families and children to the village overlooking the Tirino Valley. The festival, organized by the Pro Loco Capestrano (part of the UNPLI network), takes place in Piazza del Mercato and is one of the most anticipated moments of the village winter.

A celebration of color and tradition

For an afternoon, the square fills with confetti, streamers, and costumes of all kinds. The Capestrano Carnival does not rely on the massive floats of more famous parades, but instead preserves the authentic character of a village festival: an opportunity for the community to gather, where young and old share music, joy, and traditional seasonal sweets. The atmosphere is the genuine one of the Abruzzo villages, where Carnival remains, first and foremost, a people's festival.

An afternoon dedicated to children

The program is designed especially for the little ones: entertainment, games, masquerade dances, and activities fill the afternoon in the square. Children in costume are the true stars of the day, amidst confetti and surprises, while the Pro Loco handles the hospitality and organization of the event.

• Location: Piazza del Mercato, in the center of Capestrano
• Organization: Pro Loco Capestrano (UNPLI)
• Audience: Families and children, free admission
• Atmosphere: Popular festival with costumes, music, and entertainment

Capestrano, a village to discover

Those who attend the Carnival also have the chance to discover one of the most fascinating villages in the Abruzzo hinterland. Capestrano is famous for the Warrior of Capestrano, the Italic statue that has become a symbol of the entire Abruzzo region, and for the majestic Piccolomini Castle that dominates the town. The village is located just a short distance from the springs of the Tirino River and the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, in a setting of great natural value. The Masquerade Carnival thus becomes an opportunity to experience the hospitality and folk traditions of this corner of the L'Aquila province.