Carnevaliere

Carnevaliere: The Carnival of Oricola

Carnevaliere is the signature Carnival event of Oricola, a village located in the Piana del Cavaliere on the western edge of the province of L'Aquila, where Abruzzo meets Lazio along the historic Via Tiburtina Valeria. Every year, the town transforms into a lively spectacle with a grand parade of allegorical floats and costumed groups that travels along Via Tiburtina Vecchia, filling the streets with color, music, and festive spirit.

The Parade and Costumed Groups

The heart of the festival is the Carnival procession: elaborate floats, crafted by local associations and groups, make their way through the streets accompanied by performers in costume, choreography, and music. Alongside the floats, costumed groups—including children, families, and local residents—parade through the cheering crowds. Recent editions have also featured special guests such as the Vespa Club Carsoli, adding a unique two-wheeled flair to the festivities.

Food Stalls at Pezzetaglie

Once the parade concludes, the celebration moves to the square in the Pezzetaglie area, where food and wine stalls set up by local associations offer a taste of the region. It is the perfect opportunity to savor local specialties from the Marsica and Abruzzo culinary traditions in a convivial atmosphere that keeps the party going well into the late afternoon.

A Piana del Cavaliere Tradition

Carnevaliere is organized by the Pro Loco Civita di Oricola Piana del Cavaliere APS, in collaboration with the Municipality of Oricola and local associations. More than just a parade, it is a celebration of local identity that unites residents of the village and the surrounding Piana del Cavaliere, preserving and renewing a popular tradition deeply rooted in the community.

Part of the Abruzzo Pro Loco Carnival Circuit

The event is part of the regional project Carnevale con le Pro Loco d'Abruzzo, a network promoted by UNPLI Abruzzo that connects over thirty Carnival celebrations across the region's towns and villages. This initiative highlights popular traditions and the intangible heritage of Abruzzo, placing Oricola's Carnevaliere within a broader calendar of festive events throughout the region.