Marischio Carnival

A village tradition in the heart of the Marche

The Marischio Carnival is an unmissable event for the hamlet of Marischio, the most populous of the villages in the Municipality of Fabriano, in the province of Ancona. Just over three kilometers from the historic center of Fabriano, this small medieval settlement transforms for a day into an open-air stage, where masks, confetti, and cheer invade the village streets.

Now in its 35th edition in 2026, the Marischio Carnival is one of those authentic and participatory festivals that tell the soul of the inland Marche region: no spectacular floats from big cities, but an entire community that comes together to celebrate, amidst tradition, gastronomy, and lots of fun for families.

The masked parade

The heart of the event is the masked parade that crosses the center of the hamlet. Everyone can participate, adults and children, both individually and in groups, creating a colorful and festive procession. Rich prizes are awarded to participants: toys for children and gastronomic prizes for adults and costumed groups.

Registration is collected in the afternoon directly on-site, at the Marischio community center, before the parade begins. A perfect opportunity for children to wear their favorite costume and for local associations and groups to showcase themed performances.

Castagnole, mulled wine, and Carnival flavors

As tradition dictates, the typical flavors of the season are not to be missed: castagnole, the delicious fried pastries that are a must on Marche tables during Carnival, and mulled wine to warm up the winter day. A convivial snack that accompanies the festival and makes the afternoon even more enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

A widespread festival in the Fabriano area

The Marischio Carnival is part of a broader Carnival fervor that involves the entire district every year: in addition to the hamlet of Marischio, the historic center of Fabriano and the nearby Sassoferrato also celebrate, with events spread across different Carnival Sundays. Marischio represents the most genuine and village-style version of this tradition, the result of the voluntary work of the Marischio Social Promotion Association, which, with the patronage of the Municipality of Fabriano, organizes the event every year.

For those visiting the Marche in winter, the Marischio Carnival is the ideal opportunity to discover the authentic hospitality of the Apennine hinterland and experience a popular festival far from the main tourist flows, immersed in the daily life of a welcoming village.