The allegorical float parade in the historic center of Chieri
The Chieri Carnival is one of the most cherished events in the festive calendar of the Municipality of Chieri, in the Province of Turin. Every winter, the historic center fills with color, confetti, and joy to host the grand allegorical float parade, accompanied by performers, masked groups, and marching bands. The event is organized by the Municipal Administration in collaboration with ProChieri and local associations.
The stars of the festival are the two historic Chieri masks: the Bela Tëssiòira, queen of the Carnival, and the Mangiagrop. The Bela Tëssiòira (the beautiful weaver) pays homage to the ancient textile tradition of Chieri, a city that for centuries built its reputation on the production of fine fabrics and the work of its spinners. The official investiture of these characters takes place in the City Council Chamber and marks the start of the celebrations.
The highlight is the procession of allegorical floats that winds through the city center, from Piazza Quarini to Piazza Dante, passing along Via Roma, Viale Diaz, Via Principe Amedeo, Via delle Orfane, Via Palazzo di Città, and Via Vittorio Emanuele II. Alongside the floats created by local groups, such as those from the Istituto Santa Teresa and the Chieri parishes, the parade features floats and masked groups from numerous Piedmontese towns, including Poirino, Racconigi, Villafalletto, Pinerolo, Nichelino, and Carmagnola.
The event is designed for all ages: clowns, entertainment, masks, and plenty of music create a festive atmosphere along the entire route. Admission is free, and the event offers a perfect opportunity to explore the historic center of Chieri, with its arcades, churches, and artisan shops, while experiencing a popular tradition deeply rooted in Piedmontese identity.
Chieri, an ancient Piedmontese city at the gates of Turin, boasts a long history tied to the art of weaving. This very legacy inspires the figure of the Bela Tëssiòira, making the Chieri Carnival not just a fun celebration, but also a moment to honor local memory and identity.
For 2026, the Chieri Carnival held a special edition: the allegorical float parade, postponed from its original date of January 24, was held on Saturday, February 14, coinciding with Valentine's Day, turning the day into a double celebration for the city.
The procession started at 2:15 PM from Piazza Quarini, winding along Via Roma, Viale Diaz, Via Principe Amedeo, Via delle Orfane, Via Palazzo di Città, and Via Vittorio Emanuele II, until reaching Piazza Dante. The parade was opened by local floats from the Istituto Santa Teresa and the Chieri parishes, dedicated to "The Clowns of Chieri," followed by floats from Poirino, Racconigi, Villafalletto, Pinerolo, Nichelino, and Carmagnola.
Chieri is located about 15 km from Turin. By car, it can be reached via the Turin ring road and the SP10. By train, it is connected via the Turin-Chieri line (SFM1) with frequent departures from the Turin Porta Nuova station.
Participation in the parade and events is free.
During the event, parking areas are available at Piazza Europa and the former Tabasso site. It is recommended to check the traffic information published by the Municipality of Chieri in the days leading up to the event.
No photos yet. Share yours!
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Help us keep this listing up to date. Every proposal is verified by our team before publication.
No rating yet — be the first!
No comments yet. Be the first!
Share your experience with the community.
Centro storico di Chieri
Via Palazzo di Città 10, 10023 Chieri