Horseback Carnival

The Horseback Carnival of Brisighella

In the medieval village of Brisighella, in the province of Ravenna and in Emilia-Romagna, Carnival takes on a unique form: that of a parade that runs through the cobbled streets of the historic center, dominated by the three famous hills with the Manfrediana Fortress, the Clock Tower, and the Sanctuary of Monticino. The most characteristic and anticipated element is the passage of the Knights of Val Lamone, who with their horses and historically inspired costumes close the procession, giving the festival a unique and engaging atmosphere.

The "Carnival under the 3 Hills" event

The Horseback Carnival is the highlight of the broader Carnival under the 3 Hills, the Carnival event that the Municipality of Brisighella and the Pro Loco offer every year in spring. The parade is opened by the Medieval Drummers of Brisighella and continues with the "Unusual Floats", groups from the Olindo Pazzi schools of Brisighella and Fognano, mothers and children, the Luppoli of Villa Vezzano, and the Sancti Ruffilli Association. A colorful procession involving associations, schools, and local realities, the true protagonist of this popular festival.

The route through the historic center

The meeting point for the procession preparation is set in Via Fossa, from where the parade starts to cross the historic center with two complete laps through the village streets. Along the route, drummers, floats, and knights animate squares and alleys, while confetti and masks fill the air with color. The grand finale takes place in front of the Town Hall with the traditional gadget throw, a moment much loved especially by the little ones.

Feast, music, and taste

To crown the day, the local businesses set up Piazza Marconi with a "walking aperitif", offering drinks and snacks to enjoy while strolling through the village streets. The festival concludes with a DJ set that transforms the square into a shared space of music and fun. A formula that combines the tradition of the masked parade with the pleasure of conviviality, in one of Romagna's most picturesque villages.

Brisighella, a village to discover

Visiting Brisighella during Carnival is also an opportunity to discover one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy: the charming Via degli Asini (or Via del Borgo), the thermal baths, the Brisighella DOP extra virgin olive oil, and the flavors of Romagna cuisine complete the experience of a festive day in the heart of the Lamone Valley.