Re Peperone, the Bela Povronera, and the parade of allegorical floats
The Carmagnola Carnival is one of the most cherished popular traditions in this town in the province of Turin, in the heart of Piedmont. Organized by the Pro Loco Carmagnola APS in collaboration with the local municipality, it is an entirely free festival that fills the streets and squares of the city with color, music, masks, and joy, involving both adults and children in some of the most anticipated days of winter.
The symbolic heart of the event lies in the two historic city masks: Re Peperone and the Bela Povronera. These characters are a direct nod to Carmagnola's most famous product, the pepper, which is also the star of the renowned National Pepper Fair. Re Peperone is portrayed by Lorenzo Piana, who has played the role continuously since 1991, accompanied by the Bela Povronera, played by Karin Borga. The two masks serve as ambassadors for the city, participating in numerous gatherings and twinning events with the historic masks of other Italian towns.
The most spectacular moment of the Carnival is the parade of allegorical floats, which travels through the city streets with creations crafted by local carnival groups and associations. The parade typically features participants from various towns in the Turin and Cuneo areas, showcasing floats built with great care and irony, often focusing on current events and satire. Alongside the floats, masked groups, marching bands, and performers join the procession, which draws a large crowd every year.
Beyond the parade, the program includes moments dedicated to the little ones with entertainment, baby dance sessions, and the unmissable Nutella Party hosted by the Pro Loco. The Carmagnola Carnival is much more than just a costume party: it is an opportunity to experience the community spirit of the city, rediscover the traditions of Piedmontese folklore, and spend festive days in the town center, in a welcoming atmosphere that has made this event a classic of the local calendar for decades.
Il Carnevale di Carmagnola 2026 si è articolato in due giornate, domenica 15 e martedì 17 febbraio (Martedì Grasso). La grande novità dell'anno è stata il ritorno della sfilata dei carri allegorici in movimento, dopo l'esposizione statica della precedente edizione che non aveva pienamente soddisfatto gli organizzatori. Il corteo si è snodato lungo via Torino e le vie limitrofe, con la partecipazione delle maschere storiche Re Peperone e la Bela Povronera. Ad accompagnare la festa, le animazioni dedicate ai più piccoli e l'atmosfera di allegria tipica del Carnevale carmagnolese, tutto a ingresso gratuito.
Alla sfilata hanno preso parte sette gruppi provenienti dai Comuni di Carmagnola, Bruere, Chieri, Nichelino, Piobesi Torinese, Racconigi e Roletto.
The Carmagnola Carnival takes place during the Carnival season, between February and early March, with the main events held during the Shrove weekend and on Shrove Tuesday.
Events are held in the historic center of Carmagnola (Turin, Piedmont): the allegorical float parade travels through the city streets, while children's entertainment takes place at the Salone degli Antichi Bastioni.
All Carnival events are free of charge.
Pro Loco Carmagnola APS — tel. +39 011 9724270, email [email protected]. For further information, you can also contact the Municipal Culture Office: [email protected].
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Centro storico e via Torino