Carnuè da Varà

The local carnival

The Carnuè da Varà is the most cherished carnival celebration in Varallo Pombia, a town in the Province of Novara in upper Piedmont, located just a few kilometers from the Ticino River and Lake Maggiore. Now in its 49th edition in 2026, the event is a highly anticipated date for the entire community: a Sunday afternoon in February when the town center transforms into a whirlwind of colors, confetti, and cheer.

The masked parade

The heart of the event is the masked group parade. Participants gather in Piazza Risorgimento, from where the procession sets off in the early afternoon to wind through the town streets toward the Area Polivalente on Via della Gioventù. Here, at the end of the parade, the best costumes are awarded—a much-awaited moment that celebrates the creativity and dedication of the masked groups, often made up of families, children, and local associations.

A celebration for all ages

Carnuè da Varà is designed primarily for families and children. The afternoon continues with plenty of entertainment: baby dance, music with a DJ, balloon distribution, and the unmissable bar service offering traditional carnival fritters. The atmosphere is typical of Piedmontese village festivals, where community spirit and hospitality matter more than pomp.

A deep-rooted tradition

Organized by Pro Varallo Pombia and the ProBaby Association, with the collaboration of Pro Somma and the Andrea Camilleri Comprehensive Institute, and under the patronage of the Municipality of Varallo Pombia, the Carnuè da Varà is much more than just a parade: it is an opportunity to come together, engage the younger generations, and keep alive a popular tradition that has been renewed for nearly half a century in the Piedmont Region.

Why attend

• An authentic, family-friendly carnival parade
• Awards for the most creative masks
• Entertainment, music, and baby dance for children
• Traditional fritters and the convivial atmosphere of Piedmontese festivals
• Completely free admission