Daytime and nighttime parades on the shores of Lake Maggiore
In Laveno-Mombello, in the Province of Varese, overlooking the Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore, the Laveno Carnival is a deeply felt celebration that colors the town center every year. Organized by the Pro Loco Laveno Mombello Cerro with the patronage of the Municipality, it is part of the traveling circuit Carnevale in Tour.
The novelty that makes this Carnival special is the return of the nighttime parade: in addition to the traditional Saturday afternoon daytime parade, on Thursday evening the town comes alive with a nighttime procession of illuminated floats and costumed groups, in a magical and evocative atmosphere. A double occasion for celebration that expands the event's program and appeal.
The main Saturday parade focuses on families and children, with the traditional "mascherine" (little masks) contest judged by artists. There is no shortage of gastronomy: sandwiches, sausages, fries, and Bavarian beer for Thursday evening, polenta, lentil dishes, and fritters for Saturday. A special surprise completes the program in Piazza Matteotti.
Laveno-Mombello is one of the pearls of the Lombard Lake Maggiore, also famous for its panoramic cable car to Sasso del Ferro. The Laveno Carnival is the ideal opportunity to discover the town in a festive atmosphere, amidst confetti, illuminated floats, and local specialties.
The 2026 Laveno Carnival enlivens Laveno-Mombello over three days: February 17, 19, and 21. On Tuesday the 17th, the afternoon is dedicated to guests of the Menotti Bassani Foundation Onlus with the Asia Dance Company.
On Thursday the 19th, the historic nighttime parade returns at 8:30 PM, featuring illuminated floats and costumed groups. On Saturday the 21st, the grand main parade starts at 3:00 PM, focusing on families and children with a costume contest judged by artists. A special surprise is planned in Piazza Matteotti.
The return of the Thursday nighttime parade with illuminated floats and the grand Saturday parade with the children's costume contest.
Laveno-Mombello is located on the Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore, in the Province of Varese. By car, it can be reached from the SS629; it is connected to Milan and Varese by train lines. The ferry connects Laveno to Intra. The festival takes place in the center, with hubs in Piazza Caduti del Lavoro.
The Thursday nighttime parade starts at 8:30 PM, the main Saturday parade at 3:00 PM. Admission is free. Food stalls are available for a fee during the evenings.
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Centro di Laveno-Mombello
Piazza Caduti del Lavoro, 21014 Laveno-Mombello