Dronero Carnival

Dronero Carnival, the heart of the Maira Valley

The Dronero Carnival is one of the most beloved events in the town of Dronero, located at the entrance to the Maira Valley in the province of Cuneo. Each year, between late January and February, the streets and squares of the town come alive with floats, costumed groups, confetti, and plenty of music, creating a popular celebration that delights both young and old. Organized by the Pro Loco Dronerese on behalf of the Municipality, the event is now one of the longest-running and most popular in the Cuneo area.

The Dragun and the Dragunetta

The true stars of the Dronero Carnival are the city's two iconic masks: the Dragun and the Dragunetta, who embody the origins of Dronero and officially open the festivities. Their official investiture, held at the Town Hall, is the most anticipated moment and signals the start of the procession through the town center. These masks are more than just folklore figures; they represent the community's identity and support the festival with a profound social role, including visits to nursing homes and schools to keep the tradition alive.

The parade of floats and costumed groups

The heart of the festival is the parade that winds through the historic center of Dronero: floats, carts, costumed groups, pages, and ladies-in-waiting bring a festive procession to life amidst music and confetti. The parade features floats and groups from all over the province of Cuneo, creating an atmosphere of shared joy that attracts numerous visitors from across Piedmont.

The tent parties

Alongside the daytime parade, the Dronero Carnival also offers traditional tent parties, set up on Via Pasubio: masquerade parties with DJ sets and live music that especially attract younger crowds, keeping the celebration going until late at night. These have become a classic, highly anticipated part of the event, completing a program that perfectly blends popular tradition with contemporary fun in the heart of the Cuneo province.