Fasching in Schuffa / Schuffener Carnival Parade

The historic Carnival of Nova Levante

Fasching in Schuffa is the signature Carnival celebration of Nova Levante/Welschnofen, one of the most picturesque villages in the Val d'Ega (Eggental), in the province of Bolzano, nestled in the heart of the South Tyrolean Dolomites. For over sixty years, in the days leading up to Shrove Tuesday, the streets and squares at the foot of the Catinaccio (Rosengarten) massif have been filled with masks, mischief, and merriment: these are the Schuffener, the locals who bring the entire period to life with parties, pranks, and good humor.

What does "Schuffa" mean?

The event's name comes from Schuffa, a traditional local milk-based peasant dish; hence the affectionate nickname Schuffener given to the residents of Nova Levante. The local Carnival proudly embraces this rural, dialect-rich South Tyrolean identity, featuring masked groups, traditional sweets offered to participants, and imaginative costumes carefully crafted throughout the winter.

The grand Shrove Tuesday parade

The most anticipated moment is the Carnival parade (Faschingsumzug) on Shrove Tuesday. According to long-standing custom, the procession departs promptly at 3:03 PM from Rosengartenstraße/Via Catinaccio, winding through the village along Karerseestraße/Via Carezza and Romstraße/Via Roma until it reaches the community hall. Floats, brass bands, and costumed groups parade amidst music and color. Upon arrival around 4:00 PM, the festivities continue at the community hall with a party band, followed by a late-night DJ set starting at 10:00 PM.

A cherished Val d'Ega tradition

Fasching in Schuffa is much more than just a parade: it is a defining moment for the entire community of Nova Levante and the neighboring villages of Val d'Ega. The Nova Levante/Welschnofen brass band provides food, drinks, and music, turning the day into a massive folk festival. Each edition revolves around a motto chosen by the organizers, which inspires the costumes and floats.

The 60th anniversary edition

In 2026, Fasching in Schuffa celebrates its 60th edition, a milestone marked by the motto "The Best of 60 Years of Fasching in Schuffa – The Time of the Diamond Fools." It is a special occasion to relive over half a century of carnival tradition in one of the most evocative villages in South Tyrol, framed by the spires of the Catinaccio.