Carlevè dij Ranè (Villastellone Carnival)

The Villastellone frog carnival

The Carlevè dij Ranè is the traditional carnival of Villastellone, a town in the Metropolitan City of Turin, in the heart of Piedmont. The name, in the Piedmontese dialect, literally means "Carnival of the Ranè" (frog catchers), referring to those who used to catch and cook frogs: a direct nod to the town's ancient agricultural roots and the rice paddies that once surrounded it, where fried frog was a humble yet iconic dish. In 2026, the event celebrated its 48th edition, confirming its status as one of the most cherished events in the carnival calendar of the Turin plains.

The masks: Bela Ranera and Martin Pescadùr

The symbolic heart of the festival lies in the town's two official masks: the Bela Ranera, a young female figure linked to the world of frogs, and the Martin Pescadùr, the fisherman. Every year, in Piazza Martiri della Libertà, their official investiture takes place on the so-called "Podio dij Ranè," a moment that symbolically kicks off the festivities and entrusts the two characters with the role of ambassadors of Villastellone's traditions.

The allegorical float parade

The most anticipated moment is the grand parade of allegorical floats which, in the early afternoon, winds through the streets of the center. The procession is brought to life by the Ranabanda, the local town band, and the I Templari Musicians and Flag-wavers Group from Villastellone, who bring spectacle and color along the route. Masks, costumed groups, and floats built by volunteers complete a parade that delights both adults and children.

Fried frogs and food stalls

There is no Carlevè dij Ranè without its specialty: from late morning throughout the day, the Pro Loco serves fried frogs, potatoes, sandwiches, and other delicacies at the food stalls set up in the square. It is the perfect opportunity to rediscover a typical flavor of Piedmontese peasant cuisine in a festive, popular setting.

A carnival for everyone

Alongside the parade, the day offers activities designed for families, such as the masks' visit to the residents of the Santa Croce nursing home and the unmissable funfair set up in the Levà area. In the 2026 edition, coinciding with International Women's Day, the festival opened with the solidarity parade Onda Rosa – Just The Woman I Am, a sign of a carnival capable of blending tradition with social commitment.