Lecco's historic carnival with its Royals
The Lecco Carnevalone is one of the most deeply rooted popular festivals in the Lombard city: its history dates back to 1884 and in 2026 it reaches its 142nd edition. It is a carnival of local origin, with its own imagery made up of symbolic figures linked to the Lecco landscape — the lake and the mountains — and a strong sense of community.
At the heart of the event are the Royals, chosen each year from citizens who have distinguished themselves for their social and civil commitment. King Resegone and Queen Grigna take their names from the two mountains overlooking Lecco, while the Grand Chamberlain accompanies them in their symbolic reign. On Sunday, February 15th, in a public ceremony in the city center, the Mayor of Lecco hands them the keys to the city, officially kicking off the celebrations.
Between the opening ceremony and the final parade, the Royals visit nursery schools and retirement homes, and the city hosts a Grand Gala and numerous initiatives in the neighborhoods. It is a carnival that focuses on the social dimension and intergenerational encounters, rather than just spectacle.
The most anticipated moment is the parade of allegorical floats on Saturday, February 21st, which starts from Piazza Cappuccini and crosses the center of Lecco. In Piazza Cermenati, there are performances by groups and awards for the best costumes, while the evening concludes with live music. A free event that colors the center of the Province of Lecco and attracts families and curious visitors from all over the region.
The Lecco Carnevalone 2026, 142nd edition, runs from February 15th to 21st. This year's Royals are Andrea Vigevano as King Resegone, Giovanna Faccilongo as Queen Grigna, and Rudi Engli as Grand Chamberlain, chosen from citizens distinguished for their social commitment and volunteer work.
The week opens on Sunday, February 15th, with the ceremony of handing over the city keys to the Royals by the Mayor, and continues with visits to nursery schools and neighborhood events. The climax is the grand parade of allegorical floats on Saturday, February 21st. The entire event is free of charge.
The events take place in the center of Lecco, easily reachable on foot from the train station. The parade starts from Piazza Cappuccini. Road closures are expected in the city center during the event.
All Carnevalone events are free and open to everyone.
For the parade on Saturday, February 21st, it's advisable to arrive early and position yourself along the route towards Piazza Cermenati, where the awards ceremony and final concert will be held.
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Centro di Lecco
Piazza Cappuccini, 23900 Lecco