Historical Carnival of Breuil-Cervinia
The White Lady and the giant Gargantua, between legend and skiing
About Carnival of Cervinia
The Legend of the White Lady
The Historical Carnival of Breuil-Cervinia, in the municipality of Valtournenche (province of Aosta), originates from an ancient legend. It is said that in Breuil lived a maiden of extraordinary beauty, the White Lady. The giant Gargantua, returning from Zermatt, fell in love with her and kidnapped her, hiding her in the mountains. The valley inhabitants insisted so much that the giant was convinced to return her: he brought her back down to the valley on a sled, where the community welcomed her with a grand festival in which all the people of Aosta Valley participated. From this legend arise the carnival and the famous Rouge et Noir Ball, where participants strictly wear red and black, colors that remain at the center of the event to this day.
The Descent from the Glacier and the Parades
The most spectacular moment is the descent of the White Lady from the glacier, accompanied by Gargantua and a group of Telemark skiers, amidst music and folklore. During the carnival days, historical parades with regional folklore groups, masks, and court characters follow one another. The event winds through the streets of the town, particularly Via Carrel, with flag-throwers and street performances.
From the Grand Ball to the Gargantua Trophy
Among the most anticipated events are the grand gala ball at Verrès Castle, with a formal dress code, and the children's day with the Gargantua Trophy, a masked ski and snowboard competition. The carnival concludes with the grand final parade by carriage, which brings together the White Lady, Gargantua, and the entire retinue. For those visiting the Aosta Valley in winter, Cervinia's carnival uniquely combines the magic of snow at the foot of the Matterhorn with the charm of a popular tradition deeply rooted in the territory.
Carnival of Cervinia — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Historical Carnival of Breuil-Cervinia runs from February 12 to 21. Two young locals embody the two symbolic characters: Alice Miramonti as the White Lady and Matteo Consalter as Gargantua. The program alternates the spectacular descent from the glacier, historical parades, the grand gala ball at Verrès Castle, the day dedicated to children with the Gargantua Trophy, and the grand final parade.
Programme Carnival of Cervinia 2026
Thursday, February 12 — Opening
- 4:00 PM — The Landzette of Bosses liven up the village streets
- 8:00 PM — Start of the Historical Carnival parade
- 9:00 PM — Descent of the White Lady and Gargantua, accompanied by Telemark skiers, amidst music and folklore shows
- Following, party with Rouge et Noir dress code (red and black)
Monday, February 16 — Grand Gala Ball
- Grand ball at Verrès Castle with historical characters; formal attire required (reservation: tel. 0166 940986)
Tuesday, February 17 — Children's Day
- Gargantua Trophy: masked ski and snowboard competition for the little ones
Saturday, February 21 — Grand Finale
- 6:00 PM — Entertainment on Via Carrel with flag-throwers and street performances
- Grand carriage parade with the White Lady, Gargantua, and retinue (with Caterina di Challant and Pierre d'Introd)
- Final toast at "The Glow Village"
The program may be subject to change based on weather conditions. Updated details and times at www.cervinia.it.
Highlights Carnival of Cervinia 2026
Prices Carnival of Cervinia 2026
Practical information — Carnival of Cervinia
How to get there
Breuil-Cervinia can be reached by car from Châtillon, exit of the A5 Turin-Aosta motorway, driving up the entire Valtournenche valley. The nearest train station is Châtillon-Saint-Vincent, connected by bus to Cervinia.
Events by reservation
Some events, such as the gala ball at Verrès Castle, require reservation and formal attire. For information, you can contact the organization through Cervinia's channels.
Where to find information
Full program and dates on the official portal www.cervinia.it.
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Where does it take place — Carnival of Cervinia
Breuil-Cervinia
Breuil-Cervinia, 11021 Valtournenche