Castelnuovo in Maschera

Castelnuovo in Maschera: Carnival in the heart of the Garfagnana

Castelnuovo in Maschera is the Carnival festival that lights up the historic center of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana—the main town of the Garfagnana region in the province of Lucca, northern Tuscany—every winter. For one afternoon, the streets and squares of the village fill with smiles, confetti, and colorful costumes, in a day designed to engage families, teenagers, and children of all ages. The event is the result of a collaboration between the Municipality of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and the Youth Council, with the support of the Pro Loco and numerous local associations.

A historic center transformed into a stage

The heart of the festivities is the Piazzetta del Duomo, where music and performances take turns from the early afternoon: the parish band, the Garfunk Street Band, and local dance school performances bring the stage to life, while refreshment stands managed by local associations welcome visitors. The event then extends to Piazza Umberto I, the Loggiato Porta, and the evocative Rocca Ariostesca—the ancient fortress named after Ludovico Ariosto, former governor of the Garfagnana—which serves as a backdrop for creative workshops and activities for children.

The parade and costume competition

The highlight of the day is the costume contest, divided into four categories: groups (over three people), individual costumes, couples, and children up to twelve years old. Registration takes place in the afternoon between Piazza Umberto I and the Piazzetta del Duomo, followed by the parade on stage before a Carnival-themed jury. Winners receive prize vouchers provided by the "Compriamo a Castelnuovo" association to support local businesses. A special guest host leads the day, while DJ sets in the square keep the party going until the evening.

Music, entertainment, and local flavors

• Live performances: marching bands, dance schools, and street performers in the historic center.
• Children's entertainment: bouncy castles, face painting, board games, and creative workshops at the Rocca.
• Refreshment points managed by local associations and themed menus in the town's restaurants.
• Evening DJ set in the square to wrap up the day with joy.

Garfagnana and tradition

Castelnuovo in Maschera is much more than just a Carnival party: it is an opportunity to experience the village, discover its identity, and breathe in the authentic atmosphere of the Garfagnana, a land of mountains, chestnuts, and traditional Tuscan folk culture. A free and inclusive event that brings entire generations together in the squares of the Garfagnana capital.