Marsicano Carnival

The Marsicano Carnival of Luco dei Marsi

The Marsicano Carnival is the most cherished masquerade event in the Marsica territory, located in the heart of the L'Aquila province in Abruzzo. Every year, between late February and early March, the Municipality of Luco dei Marsi transforms into a grand open-air stage, brought to life by parades of allegorical floats, costumed groups, and a festive atmosphere that engages entire families and visitors from across the region.

Two days of celebration

The event spans two days. The heart of the festivities is the parade of allegorical floats along Viale Duca degli Abruzzi, the town's main artery, which is transformed for the occasion into a path of color, music, and choreography. The floats, crafted over months by master papier-mâché artists and volunteers, depict satirical and fairy-tale themes as well as current events, rooted in the popular culture of Abruzzo.

The awards ceremony for the floats and costumed groups takes place in Piazza Umberto I, the civic heart of Luco dei Marsi, which also hosts street food stands featuring local culinary specialties and DJ sets that keep the party going until evening.

A carnival for the entire Marsica region

What makes the Marsicano Carnival special is its choral nature: the parade features costumed groups from over ten towns in the Marsica area, alongside various local schools. It is an identity-driven festival that unites the villages of the Fucino plateau and celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and community spirit.

National recognition

In 2026, the Marsicano Carnival received the "Authentic Carnivals" label, presented at Montecitorio: a recognition that honors the most genuine Italian carnival events deeply rooted in popular traditions, confirming the growth and prestige of an event born from the dedication of local volunteers.

Organization

The event is organized by the AnimaLuco association together with the Class of 1985, with the patronage of the Municipality of Luco dei Marsi. To ensure safety, the administration establishes a specific traffic plan each year with temporary closures of the streets involved in the parade.