Cuneo Children's Carnival

The children's carnival in the heart of Cuneo

The Cuneo Children's Carnival is one of the most heartfelt and well-attended events on the city's calendar. For over forty years, on a Sunday afternoon in February, the historic center of the provincial capital of Cuneo (known as the "capital of the Granda" in Piedmont) transforms into a large open-air stage, where children and teenagers are the true stars.

The event was born from a collaboration between the Municipality of Cuneo and local parishes, and it still retains that genuine, community-focused spirit that distinguishes it from more spectacular, tourist-oriented carnivals: there are no giant floats here, but rather costumed groups created by youth centers, schools, and local associations, each with its own theme and costumes carefully crafted over the preceding months.

The parade and the city's masks

The highlight is the grand parade, which sets off every year from Piazza Galimberti and travels along Corso Nizza to Piazza Europa, before turning back to the starting point for a final celebration featuring entertainment, music, and confetti. Leading the procession are the two symbolic masks of Cuneo, Gironi and Girometta, accompanied by the "Duccio Galimberti" city marching band.

Thousands of participants, mostly children and teenagers from the parishes and youth centers of the Diocese of Cuneo, march in costume, gifting the city an afternoon of color, joy, and tradition. Stage entertainment is provided by groups of performers who engage the audience until evening.

A community tradition

More than just a carnival, the Cuneo event is a community celebration: it involves families, schools, parishes, and associations in a shared effort that lasts for weeks. This is why, year after year, the Children's Carnival remains one of the most beloved events for the people of Cuneo and a wonderful opportunity to visit the center of Cuneo on a festive day. Admission is always free and the event takes place entirely outdoors, in the streets and squares of the city center.