Carnival of Sommacampagna and Caselle

The Carnival of Messer Gidino

The Carnival of Sommacampagna, in the province of Verona, revolves around the figure of Messer Gidino, the traditional mask of the town which is elected annually from local candidates. The name recalls Gidino da Sommacampagna, a poet and musician who lived in the 14th century, author of a famous treatise on vernacular metrics: a choice that links carnival fun to the cultural identity of the Municipality.

Two parades, two hearts of the town

The festival is spread over several days and in two distinct locations. In the main town of Sommacampagna, the grand afternoon parade crosses the historic center with masks and floats that bring folklore, entertainment, and joy to the town's streets. In the evening, the party moves to the hamlet of Caselle, where the night parade offers a different atmosphere, with illuminated floats parading to the parish church.

A festival for families

Alongside the parades, the program includes events for children with the Festa delle Mascherine (Little Masks Festival) at Centro Noi, dedicated to kindergarten and primary school children, with shows, entertainment, and snacks. The organization, managed by the local charity committee with the patronage of the Municipality of Sommacampagna, allocates part of the proceeds to solidarity initiatives, keeping alive a deeply felt tradition in the Veronese area.