Cortina d'Ampezzo Carnival – Palio dei Sestieri

The Carnival of the Queen of the Dolomites

The Cortina d'Ampezzo Carnival enlivens the centre of the famous Dolomite resort, in the province of Belluno, every February. Organized by Cortina For Us with the patronage of the Municipality, it alternates the spectacular dimension of the parade with the sporting and identity-focused aspect of the Palio dei Sestieri.

Parade Floats Along Corso Italia

The heart of the festival is the parade of floats along Corso Italia, Cortina's pedestrianised main street, with masks, music, and entertainment for all ages. The streets of the centre fill with colour and joy during the peak period of Carnival.

The Corsa dei Sestieri

The most keenly awaited moment is the Corsa dei Sestieri (Palio dei Sestieri), a cross-country ski relay race held in Fiames between the six historic districts of Cortina: Cortina, Zuel, Azzon, Chiave, Cadin, and Alverà. It is a competition deeply rooted in the identity of the Ampezzo community, where each district defends its colours in an atmosphere of healthy rivalry and popular celebration.

Tradition and Community

Through parades, masks, and the ski challenge, the Cortina Carnival tells the story of a mountain community that keeps its traditions alive, offering residents and tourists an authentic experience in the heart of the Dolomites.