Historical Carnival of Larino
The papier-mâché giants of the most beloved Carnival in Molise
About Carnival of Larino
A Historical Carnival of Italy
The Historical Carnival of Larino, in the province of Campobasso, is recognized by the FITP (Italian Federation of Popular Traditions) among the Historical Carnivals of Italy. Now in its 51st edition, it is the most watched carnival event in Molise and attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year to the heart of the Frentanian city.
The papier-mâché giants
The absolute protagonists are the papier-mâché floats, the imposing masks called "giants" which can reach six meters in height. Made by local associations in the preceding months, the floats parade through the historic center – transformed for the occasion into the Carnival Citadel – accompanied by music, dancing, and costumed figures. Each year, a jury awards the most beautiful float in a very heartfelt official ceremony by the community.
Guests and atmosphere
The strength of the Carnival of Larino also lies in its ability to combine popular tradition with spectacle, with the presence of high-profile national TV guests who liven up the parade days. The event is organized by the Larinella Cultural Association together with the Municipality of Larino, with symbolic ticket access that includes parking.
Carnival of Larino — edition 2026
The 2026 edition, the 51st, confirmed the Carnival of Larino as a flagship event in Molise. Four days of parades of the papier-mâché giants in the historic center, with a rich program of TV guests, music, and awards. The float "L'Ultima Generazione", created by the Gioventù Frentana group, was the winner.
Programme Carnival of Larino 2026
Saturday, February 14
- Free guided tours of the historic center
- 5:00 PM — Parade of the giant floats, music, and DJ set
Sunday, February 15
- 5:00 PM — Float parade
- Guest: Tina Cipollari; presentation with Adriana Volpe
Saturday, February 21
- Guided tours and parade with guest Giovanni Muciaccia
- Karaoke and DJ set
Sunday, February 22
- 11:00 AM — Costume contest
- Parade with the Carnival's "godfather" Nicolò De Devitiis
- 8:00 PM — Official award ceremony (winner: "L'Ultima Generazione")
Location: Piazza del Popolo / Palazzo Ducale — Carnival Citadel.
Highlights Carnival of Larino 2026
Prices Carnival of Larino 2026
Practical information — Carnival of Larino
How to get there
Larino (CB) is reachable from the A14 highway (Termoli exit) and the SS87. Larino train station on the Termoli-Campobasso line.
When
Two weekends in February (in 2026: February 14-15 and 21-22).
Tickets
Daily admission at a symbolic price (parking included); multi-day passes and grandstand seats available.
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Where does it take place — Carnival of Larino
Centro storico di Larino — Cittadella del Carnevale
Piazza del Popolo, 86035 Larino