Capua Carnival

One of Italy's oldest historic carnivals

The Capua Carnival has its roots in 1886, the year that saw the merger of the "noble" carnival of aristocratic salons and the popular carnival celebrated in the streets and squares, creating an event that involves the entire Capua community without distinction. Since then, the tradition has been renewed every year, making it one of the longest-running and most cherished events in Campania and the entire province of Caserta.

The 2026 edition: "Lights, Camera, Action!"

The 139th edition, scheduled from February 12th to 17th, 2026, is titled "Lights, Camera, Action!" and turns the city into a massive open-air film set. The highlight days are Thursday the 12th, Sunday the 15th, and Tuesday the 17th, when Piazza dei Giudici and the downtown streets come alive with papier-mâché floats, folk groups, local schools, and entertainment for all ages.

Program and events

• Thursday, February 12th – The Debut: Opening with the "Student Carnival," gathering of floats at Largo Sacro Cuore, parade from Quadrivio Caputo, and the solemn handing over of the keys to King Carnival, followed by the "Destinazione 90" live show.
• Friday, February 13th and Saturday, February 14th: Music nights at Largo Porta Napoli with DJ sets and tribute bands, plus the Sant'Angelo Carnival in the hamlet of Sant'Angelo in Formis.
• Sunday, February 15th – The Blockbuster: The busiest day, featuring "Capua Open Doors," the "Golden Carnivalino" children's contest, the carnival train, street performers, the grand carnival procession, and evening shows in Piazza dei Giudici.
• Tuesday, February 17th – Grand Finale: The final procession, awards for schools and floats, the Carnival lottery, and the traditional "Trial and Sentencing of King Carnival," concluding with the funeral, the burning of the catafalque, and a fireworks display.

A free, popular event

Organized by the Pro Loco of Capua with the support of the Municipality of Capua, the Carnival is entirely free and benefits from the Ministry of Culture's Fund for Historic Carnivals, a testament to its cultural value. The parades involve master papier-mâché artists, associations, schools, and costumed groups from across the region, in a celebration that blends historical memory, artisanal creativity, and community spirit.

Capua and its carnival

An art city on the banks of the Volturno River in the province of Caserta, Capua offers visitors not just the festival, but also a rich historical and monumental heritage. During the Carnival, the historic center becomes the perfect stage to experience one of the most authentic traditions in Campania.