Figli di Bocco Carnival

A Baroque carnival in a medieval village

The Figli di Bocco Carnival is one of the most fascinating historical re-enactment events in Tuscany. It takes place in Castiglion Fibocchi, a small medieval village in the Province of Arezzo, nestled in the hills of the Valdarno. For two Sundays in February, the streets and squares of the historic center fill with over 200 participants wrapped in elegant Baroque costumes, their faces hidden by hand-painted papier-mâché masks inspired by the famous Venice Carnival.

King Bocco and his court

Leading the procession is King Bocco, the undisputed lord and soul of the festival. Behind him marches a court of queens, princesses, fairies, wizards, and harlequins, while the Pazzi Ribelli (Rebellious Fools)—the mask group requiring the largest number of participants—brings chaos and joy to the village streets. The masks, with costumes entirely hand-stitched, make this carnival an authentic spectacle of art and craftsmanship.

A centuries-old tradition

The roots of the festival reach back to the Middle Ages: 12th-century documents already mention the Carnevale de filiis Bocchi in the Valdarno, and the name is linked to the figure of Bocco, an ancient lord of the castle who invited his descendants to carry on the tradition. After a long period of interruption, the event was revived in its modern form in 1997, becoming one of the oldest and most evocative carnivals in Tuscany.

What to experience during the festival

In addition to the double masked parade, the program offers numerous attractions:

• the opening of the gates to King Bocco's Kingdom in Piazza delle Fiere;
• artistic circus shows with acrobats, clowns, jugglers, and magicians;
• storytellers, concerts, and magic shows along the village streets;
• the children's parade in period costumes;
• the proclamation of the Queen of the Mask and the most beautiful mask contest.

Admission to Castiglion Fibocchi during the carnival days requires a symbolic ticket that supports the organizing association. Recognized by the Tuscany Region as a historical re-enactment event, the Figli di Bocco Carnival is an unmissable destination for those who love art, tradition, and the timeless atmosphere of Tuscan villages.