An afternoon of masks and merriment in the heart of the Sienese Chianti
When the Carnival season arrives, Castellina in Chianti dresses up for the occasion. This small medieval village in the province of Siena, nestled among the vineyards of the Chianti Classico region, opens its streets to an afternoon dedicated to masks, costumes, and fun for all ages. It is one of those authentic village festivals where the community gathers in the main square and the historic center to celebrate one of the most cheerful moments of the year together.
The unique aspect of the Castellina Carnival is its ability to reinvent itself each edition around a theme that transforms the village. In 2026, the central theme was the famous tale of Pinocchio: Castellina turned into the Land of Toys, populated by the most beloved characters from Collodi's story. The Cat and the Fox wandered through the streets of the center, while Pinocchio was available for photos with adults and children alike, and the fearsome Fire-Eater—grumpy only in appearance—completed the scene of this fairytale celebration.
The Castellina in Chianti Carnival is an event designed primarily for families and children. Everyone is invited to attend in costume, letting themselves be carried away by the joy and creativity that define this day. Amidst confetti, colorful costumes, and surprise characters, the village comes alive with a carefree atmosphere that engages both residents and visitors.
Castellina in Chianti is one of the iconic villages of the Chianti Classico, a land of hills, vineyards, and world-famous wineries. Timing a visit with the Carnival season means discovering the most authentic and festive side of this corner of Tuscany: a welcoming community that opens the doors of its historic center to share a simple and heartfelt popular tradition. The Carnival is part of the broader calendar of events that animate the Chianti municipalities throughout the year, from winter festivals to major summer celebrations.
On Sunday, February 15, 2026, Castellina in Chianti celebrated Carnival by transforming into the Land of Toys, a tribute to the famous tale of Pinocchio. Starting at 3:30 PM, the streets of the historic center hosted an afternoon of masks, costumes, and fun for all ages.
Among the day's protagonists, the Cat and the Fox enlivened the village with their presence, while Pinocchio was available for souvenir photos with children, and Fire-Eater, grumpy only in appearance, completed the fairytale scenery. An opportunity to unleash creativity and let oneself be carried away by the joy of the festival.
The detailed schedule of individual activities was not published as a timed agenda: the festival took place as a widespread animation along the streets of the center starting from the early afternoon.
Castellina in Chianti can be reached by car from the Florence-Siena highway (exit for Chianti) or along the SR222 Chiantigiana road, which connects Florence to Siena while crossing the Chianti villages. The nearest train station is in Siena, from where you can continue by bus or car.
The festival takes place in the historic center of Castellina in Chianti, along the streets and squares of the village.
The Carnival is held during the Carnival season, generally on a Sunday afternoon in February, starting in the early afternoon.
The event takes place in the streets of the village and is free to attend. For updated information, it is recommended to check the official channels of the Municipality of Castellina in Chianti.
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Centro storico di Castellina in Chianti
Centro storico, 53011 Castellina in Chianti