Ciottorino Fair

A spring tradition in the heart of Old Viareggio

The Ciottorino Fair is one of the most cherished events in the calendar of Viareggio, the pearl of Versilia overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea in the province of Lucca, and the most famous coastal town in Tuscany for its Carnival. The fair takes place in the historic heart of the so-called Old Viareggio, the neighborhood clustered around the evocative Torre Matilde, between Piazza Santa Maria, Piazza Manzoni, and Via Regia. It represents the first major spring event, signaling the arrival of the warmer season and preceding the patron saint's feast day.

What are 'ciottorini'?

The name of the fair comes from ciottorini, small terracotta objects that children receive for free and decorate with colors. The initiative, created also in memory of Roberta Bartali, a historic collaborator of the Old Viareggio district, aims to revive local traditions and introduce children to craftsmanship and manual creativity. The painted ciottorini are then displayed for the duration of the fair, awaiting the selection of the most appreciated work.

The event program

For nearly three weeks, the streets of the district are filled with stalls selling handmade terracotta, traditional pre-Easter local products, books, stationery, various delicacies, rides, and food stands serving traditional 'bomboloni' doughnuts. Mornings are dedicated to preschools, while afternoons welcome local primary schools.

• 'Krescere' creative workshops: every day from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM, recreational activities organized by the Kartè association for creating ciottorini.
• Exhibition of works created by primary and middle schools, with digital projection of posters produced by secondary schools.
• Artisanal and food market between Piazza Santa Maria, Via Regia, and Piazza Manzoni.

The Spring Festivals and the Golden Ciottorino

The highlight of the fair coincides with the Spring Festivals on March 21, 22, and 25, when Via Regia and Piazza Manzoni host the market of typical and artisanal products. On March 25, the day of the patronal feast of the SS. Annunziata, the Golden Ciottorino award ceremony is held in collaboration with the Humanitarian Association Il Germoglio ODV, followed by the prize-giving for the painting competition dedicated to middle and primary schools. The event takes place under covered structures, remaining accessible even in case of rain.

A family event in the heart of Viareggio

The Ciottorino Fair is an event designed primarily for families and children, but it also engages residents and visitors thanks to the charm of the Viareggio historic center, the artisanal stalls, and the festive atmosphere that precedes Easter. It is a wonderful opportunity to discover Old Viareggio away from the clamor of the Carnival and to experience an authentic popular tradition of the Tuscan coast.