The parade of allegorical floats in the heart of the Rieti Sabina
The Contigliano Carnival is one of the most cherished popular festivals in the Rieti Sabina region. Every year, in the heart of winter, this village in the Province of Rieti fills with color, music, and joy as allegorical floats and masked groups parade through the town center. The event is entirely community-driven: local associations, volunteers, and residents spend weeks building the floats and preparing costumes.
The event is managed by the Pro Loco of Contigliano, with the patronage of the Municipality and the support of local associations. The Carnival is more than just a parade; it is a moment when the entire Rieti area comes together, with floats and masks arriving from neighboring towns to liven up the village streets. Children, families, and curious visitors crowd the route amidst confetti, streamers, and cheering in one of the most popular events of the year.
The procession kicks off from Via della Repubblica and winds through the town, ending in Piazzale degli Eroi, where the awards ceremony takes place. A jury presents prizes to the allegorical floats and masked groups that stand out for their originality, creativity, and carnival spirit. The festivities are complemented by food stalls offering traditional local delicacies.
In recent years, the Carnival has also become a showcase for the region: recent editions have hosted the World Chili Pepper Fair and the European Athletics U18 Championships, held at the Guidobaldi Stadium in Rieti. Three events, one shared spirit: celebration, sport, and flavor, all showcasing the identity of the Sabina and Lazio regions.
Nestled among the hills of the Sabina, just a few kilometers from Rieti, Contigliano is a village of ancient origin known for its scenic profile and rich historical and religious heritage. The Carnival is the perfect opportunity to discover the town and experience the authentic atmosphere of a traditional Lazio festival.
After being postponed from February 8 due to bad weather, the Contigliano Carnival returned on Sunday, February 22, 2026, bringing color, music, and joy to the village. The festival was organized by the Pro Loco Contigliano with the patronage of the Municipality and the support of local associations.
The 2026 edition featured two major guests from the Rieti area: the World Chili Pepper Fair and the 2026 European Athletics U18 Championships, scheduled for July at the Guidobaldi Stadium. Three events, one spirit: celebration, sport, and flavor.
Food stalls with local specialties were open throughout the day.
Contigliano is located in the Province of Rieti, in the Lazio region, just a few kilometers from the provincial capital. By car, it can be reached via the SS79 or the Rieti-Terni highway; from Rome, take the Via Salaria (SS4) to Rieti and then continue toward Contigliano.
The event takes place on a Sunday in February during the Carnival season. The parade starts in the early afternoon from Via della Repubblica.
Participation is free and open to everyone. To register a float or a masked group, please contact the Pro Loco of Contigliano.
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Via della Repubblica