Carnival in the Square
The Carnival afternoon dedicated to children in the heart of Matelica
About Carnival in the Square Matelica
A Carnival party for the little ones in Matelica
Carnival in the Square is the event that, during Carnival time, transforms the historic center of Matelica, in the province of Macerata, into a large open-air playground. It is a party designed especially for children: everyone is invited to participate with their own masks to spend an afternoon together filled with colors, music, games, and joy. The event is organized by the Pro Matelica Association with the patronage of the Municipality of Matelica.
Where it takes place
The heart of the event is the Loggiato degli Ottoni and the adjacent Piazza Enrico Mattei, in the historic center of the city. These are symbolic places of Matelica, sheltered and intimate, perfect for welcoming families with children even when the February weather is not the best. The choice of the central square makes the festival easily accessible on foot from all over the town.
Atmosphere and activities
The afternoon flies by with confetti, streamers, face painting, and music. Over the years, the program has included inflatables, a DJ station with children's songs, baby dance, mini shows, entertainment by local groups, dance performances, and magic moments. A simple and popular festival, which focuses on sharing, fun, and lightheartedness rather than big names.
A Carnival that aims to become a tradition
Carnival in the Square is an event rooted in Matelica's winter calendar, and the municipal administration has repeatedly expressed its desire to consolidate it as an annual tradition for the city. Along with other initiatives of the season, it helps to keep the historic center alive during the cold months and to involve families from the Marche region.
Who it's for
- Children and teenagers in costume
- Families from Matelica and the Esino valley
- Anyone who wants to experience Carnival in a simple and free way
As it is an event with free admission, it is the ideal opportunity for an afternoon outing in the heart of the province of Macerata, to be combined with the discovery of Matelica's historic center and its famous Verdicchio wine.
Carnival in the Square Matelica — edition 2026
On Sunday, February 15, 2026, the Loggiato degli Ottoni in Matelica hosted the 2026 edition of Carnival in the Square. Despite uncertain weather conditions and rain, the festival attracted numerous participants for an afternoon that flew by with colors, cheerful face painting, confetti, and music.
The entertainment was provided by the dance group Scarpette Rosa Ballet and the scouts, with the participation of magician Gabriele Freddoni; the afternoon was hosted by Laura Gentilucci. The festival was attended by Mayor Denis Cingolani and Councilor for Culture Barbara Cacciolari, who reiterated the desire to make the initiative an annual tradition for the city.
The event, with free admission, was organized by the Municipality of Matelica and Pro Matelica with the Pastoral Unit of Matelica.
Programme Carnival in the Square Matelica 2026
Sunday, February 15, 2026 — afternoon
- Entertainment and baby dance for children
- Performances by the group Scarpette Rosa Ballet
- Participation of the scouts
- Magic show by Gabriele Freddoni
- Face painting, confetti, streamers, and music
Hosted by Laura Gentilucci. Location: Loggiato degli Ottoni, center of Matelica.
Highlights Carnival in the Square Matelica 2026
Prices Carnival in the Square Matelica 2026
Practical information — Carnival in the Square Matelica
When
During Carnival, on an afternoon in February (typical hours from approximately 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM). The exact dates are announced each year by the Pro Matelica Association.
Where
Loggiato degli Ottoni and Piazza Enrico Mattei, historic center of Matelica (MC).
How to get there
By car: Matelica is reachable via the SS256 Muccese; ample parking near the center. By train: Matelica station on the Civitanova Marche–Fabriano line. The nearest airports are Ancona-Falconara and Perugia-Sant'Egidio.
Costs
Free admission.
Contacts
Pro Matelica Association, tel. +39 0737 685684. Updates on the Pro Matelica website and social media channels.
Festival-goer photos
No photos yet. Share yours!
Share your photos
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Noticed an error or missing information?
Help us keep this listing up to date. Every proposal is verified by our team before publication.
Festival-goer reviews
No rating yet — be the first!
No comments yet. Be the first!
Were you there?
Share your experience with the community.
Where does it take place — Carnival in the Square Matelica
Loggiato degli Ottoni / Piazza Enrico Mattei
Loggiato degli Ottoni, 62024 Matelica