Magliano Sabina Carnival

A village Carnival in the heart of Sabina

The Magliano Sabina Carnival is one of the most cherished folk festivals in the upper Tiber Valley. The town of Magliano Sabina, in the province of Rieti, is located at the northern edge of Lazio, bordering Umbria: an ancient village perched on a hill that sheds its winter quiet for a few days to fill with color, music, and confetti. The event is curated by the Pro Loco Magliano Sabina, with the support of the municipal administration and the participation of local groups, associations, and families.

The allegorical float parade

The highlight is the allegorical float parade, which winds along Viale XIII Giugno and ends in Piazza Garibaldi, the town's civic heart. The floats are built in the preceding months by local groups working in warehouses and garages to shape papier-mâché and recycled materials into giant figures, satirical allegories, and references to current events and children's favorite cartoons. Surrounding the floats are masked groups in costume, majorettes, and the marching band that sets the pace for the procession.

The children's party

The second part of the event is reserved for the little ones: in the afternoon, a children's party takes place in the square with games, entertainment, traditional seasonal sweets, and a riot of colorful masks. It is the moment when the Magliano Carnival shows its most familiar side, designed for visitors arriving from neighboring towns in Sabina and lower Umbria.

Tradition, satire, and community

Like many carnivals in Lazio, the Magliano Sabina event is more than just a show: it is a collective ritual that renews the town's identity every year. Building the floats is a team effort that spans generations, from master craftsmen to young people learning to mold papier-mâché. Gentle yet sharp satire targets the year's events, while evening music and dancing extend the party long after the procession ends.

What to see in Magliano Sabina

Visitors coming for the Carnival can take the opportunity to explore the village:

• the historic center, with its narrow alleys, noble palaces, and views over the Tiber Valley;
• the Cathedral of San Liberatore, the town's main religious building;
• the Civic Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts from ancient Sabina Tiberina;
• the panoramas toward the Sabini Mountains and, on clear days, toward Umbria.

Seasonal flavors

The Sabina Carnival also has its own flavors: frappe (or chiacchiere), castagnole, and fried donuts accompany the festivities, often offered by stalls set up in the square or local bakeries. The local cuisine throughout the rest of the year focuses on extra virgin olive oil, cured meats, pecorino cheeses, and homemade pasta: a simple and generous table typical of the Lazio hinterland.

Useful information

Participation in the parade and the children's party is free. Dates vary each year depending on the liturgical calendar: in 2026, the events took place in mid-February. Since times and routes may be subject to minor changes, it is advisable to check the final program on the Pro Loco and Magliano Sabina municipal channels in the days leading up to the event.