GallCarnaval
The carnival of Gallarate with King Risotto, Queen Luganeghetta and the parade through the streets of the center
About GallCarnaval
The carnival of Gallarate and its masks
GallCarnaval is the carnival celebration of Gallarate, in the province of Varese, built around its official masks: King Risotto and Queen Luganeghetta, figures that recall the gastronomic and popular tradition of the area. The event, organized by Pro Loco Gallarate in collaboration with Ambrapoint and sponsored by the Municipality, enlivens the historic center with parades, entertainment, and shows.
The handover of the city keys
The carnival opens with the ceremony of handing over the keys of the city to King Risotto by the Mayor, a symbolic rite that entrusts the city to the carnival sovereign for the duration of the festivities. It is the institutional moment that officially kicks off the days of celebration.
The parade and the party in the square
The heart of the event is the traveling parade that starts from the courtyard of Palazzo Broletto and crosses the streets of the center — Via Cavour, Via Cantoni, Corso Italia — to end in Piazza Libertà. Here, entertainment for children, with soap bubbles, face painting, and balloons, is concentrated, and the 'La Maschera più Bella' contest takes place, with various categories and prizes offered by local merchants.
A celebration for the whole city
GallCarnaval is a celebration designed for families and costumed participants of all ages. The presence of cosplay groups and the variety of entertainment make it an anticipated event in Gallarate's winter calendar, capable of transforming the center of Gallarate into a large space of play and color.
GallCarnaval — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of GallCarnaval takes place over two days. Thursday, February 19th, the opening ceremony with the handover of the city keys to King Risotto. Saturday, February 21st, the main day, with entertainment for children, the traveling parade through the center, and the 'La Maschera più Bella' contest. The event is organized by Pro Loco Gallarate with Ambrapoint and the patronage of the Municipality.
Programme GallCarnaval 2026
Thursday, February 19
- Opening ceremony: handover of the city keys to King Risotto by the Mayor (at Asilo Ponti)
Saturday, February 21
- 2:15 PM — entertainment in Piazza Libertà: soap bubbles, face painting, and balloons by the Italian Red Cross
- 2:30 PM — departure of the traveling parade from the courtyard of Palazzo Broletto, along Via Cavour, Via Cantoni, and Corso Italia, arriving at Piazza Libertà
- 'La Maschera più Bella' contest: categories best young mask (male and female), best adult mask, best family, and audience award. Two-minute performance on stage with accompaniment by Multiverso Cosplay Italia. Queen Luganeghetta is on the jury.
Costumed participants intending to parade must be at Palazzo Broletto by 1:30 PM. Registration for the contest by February 20th via email or on Saturday at the Ambrapoint desk near the stage.
Highlights GallCarnaval 2026
Prices GallCarnaval 2026
Practical information — GallCarnaval
Where
Historic center of Gallarate (VA): the parade starts from Palazzo Broletto and arrives in Piazza Libertà, crossing Via Cavour, Via Cantoni, and Corso Italia.
When
During the carnival period (February). The main day, with the parade and entertainment, takes place in the afternoon.
Participate in costume
Costumed participants who wish to parade should gather at Palazzo Broletto. Registration is required for the 'La Maschera più Bella' contest. Free admission.
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Where does it take place — GallCarnaval
Piazza Libertà e centro storico
Piazza Libertà, 21013 Gallarate