Collelongo Carnival

The Collelongo Carnival

The Collelongo Carnival is the cheerful masquerade party that brings the small town of Marsica, in the province of L'Aquila, to life every February in the heart of Abruzzo. Organized by the Collelongo Pro Loco, the event transforms the local school gymnasium for an afternoon into a space of color, enthusiasm, and community, designed especially for children and their families.

Costumes, treats, and games

The program revolves around three main highlights. The costume parade is the heart of the celebration: all participants wear masks and parade before the audience, with an award ceremony for the most beautiful and original costume. Alongside the parade, the dessert competition takes place—a genuine home-baking contest where the most delicious creation is awarded, celebrating the flavors and recipes of local tradition. The afternoon is completed by numerous games and entertainment activities designed for the little ones.

A celebration for families

The Collelongo Carnival stands out for its intimate and communal character. It is not a large float parade like those in big cities, but a village festival that focuses on direct participation: in fact, wearing a mask is mandatory to enter the event, ensuring that both adults and children get into the Carnival spirit together. The atmosphere, filled with joy, attracts families and children from Collelongo and the surrounding towns of Marsica.

Collelongo and its traditions

Collelongo is a village nestled in nature, on the edge of a large beech forest at the foot of Monte Mal Passo, known for a rich calendar of popular traditions: from the evocative Feast of Saint Anthony Abbot with its large bonfires and "cottore," to the summer Lamb Festival, and the patronal feast of the Madonna dell'Assunta. The Carnival organized by the Pro Loco fits into this vibrant fabric of events, offering the community a festive moment during the winter season.