CarnevalMarlia

The Carnival of the Lucca Plain

CarnevalMarlia is one of the most beloved carnival celebrations in the Lucca Plain. Held in Marlia, a populous village in the Municipality of Capannori in the province of Lucca (Tuscany), it transforms the town centre into an open-air stage filled with papier-mâché floats, masquerades, confetti, and joy. The parades wind their way through Piazza del Mercato and along part of Via Paolinelli, the heart of the festivities.

A century-old tradition

The first documented records of Carnival in Marlia date back to 1904, while the first masked parade was organized in 1909. After a period of decline starting in the mid-fifties, the event saw a modern revival in 1978, bringing its colors and traditions back to Marlia. Since then, CarnevalMarlia has never stopped, becoming an eagerly awaited appointment for the entire community and neighboring towns.

The districts and the Marillone

The true driving force of the festival are the village districts: Santa Caterina, San Donnino, La Fraga, and Selvette. Each group, with its own float builders, works for months on the construction of papier-mâché floats—works of art that come to life through systems of hooks, ropes, and counterweights, directly involving the spectators. The symbol of the event is the Marillone, the giant clown that opens the masked parade and accompanies the processions.

A festival for the whole family

Beyond the parades, CarnevalMarlia offers a rich array of entertainment: musical performances, games, and activities for children such as face painting, baby dance, balloon sculpting, and giant soap bubbles. There is no shortage of food stalls serving traditional carnival sweets, the famous pasta fritta (fried dough), frati (donuts), and the Charity Fair. Admission is completely free, in keeping with the popular and communal spirit of the festival.

Why it is worth visiting

Often overshadowed by the nearby and more famous Viareggio Carnival, CarnevalMarlia retains the charm of an authentic village festival, where the papier-mâché is still the result of the volunteer work of the districts and the atmosphere remains familiar and welcoming. For those visiting the Lucca area in winter, it is an opportunity to discover a living, deep-rooted tradition, far from the major tourist flows.