Historical Carnival of Verrès
The re-enactment of Caterina di Challant
About Carnival of Verrès
When the Lady of the Castle Danced with the People
The Historical Carnival of Verrès, in the province of Aosta, is one of the most characteristic events in the Italian carnival scene. It re-enacts a real event: in 1450, the noblewoman Caterina di Challant, lady of the castle, decided to come down to the square to dance with the people, sealing a gesture of closeness between the aristocracy and common folk that is still the heart of the festival today.
Over 250 Costumed Figures
Each year, a young couple from the village impersonates Catherine de Challant and her husband Pierre d'Introd, accompanied by over 250 figures in late medieval costume. Historical parades, dances at the Verrès Castle, masked processions, and convivial moments animate the Aosta Valley village, bringing it back to the splendour of the 15th century for a few days.
A Recognized Tradition
Considered among the most unique historical carnivals in Italy, the Verrès Carnival is an event of identity for the entire Aosta Valley. Its historical and cultural significance is recognized at a ministerial level, and each edition attracts visitors from all over the region and beyond, drawn by the unique atmosphere that can be felt in the streets of the town and within the castle walls.
Carnival of Verrès — edition 2026
The 77th edition of the Historical Carnival of Verrès is held from February 14 to 17, 2026. Federica Michelini (Catherine de Challant LXXVII) and Andrea Lo Valvo (Pierre d'Introd LXXVII) are the protagonists, accompanied by about 250 costumed figures. Four days of historical parades, castle dances, and masked processions in the centre of Verrès.
Programme Carnival of Verrès 2026
Saturday, February 14
- 8:30 PM — Official presentation and historical parade in Piazza Émile Chanoux, with a torchlight procession and the Verrès philharmonic band.
- 11:00 PM — Inaugural gala ball at the Verrès Castle, with live music.
Sunday, February 15
- 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM — Medieval-themed entertainment; reception for the elderly.
- In the evening — Performance by Irish musician Liam O'Connor; closing ball at 10:30 PM.
Monday, February 16
- Morning — Visits to local institutions; parade to greet merchants.
- 3:00 PM — Masked party for children.
- 8:30 PM — Gala dinner; midnight ball and theatrical performance.
Tuesday, February 17
- Morning — Entertainment; noon distribution of polenta.
- 2:30 PM — Grand masked parade with floats.
- 10:30 PM — Closing ball at the castle, DJ set, and awards for best costumes and masked groups.
Full program on the official website.
Highlights Carnival of Verrès 2026
Prices Carnival of Verrès 2026
Practical information — Carnival of Verrès
How to get there
Verrès is accessible from the A5 motorway (Verrès exit) and has a train station on the Aosta-Turin line, a short walk from the historic centre.
Events and tickets
Many events in the square are free; some evening events in the castle (gala dinners, dances) are ticketed and require appropriate attire.
When
The Carnival takes place in the days leading up to Fat Tuesday, between late January and February.
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Where does it take place — Carnival of Verrès
Centro storico di Verrès e Castello di Verrès
Piazza Émile Chanoux, 11029 Verrès