The Carnival celebration in the Principality village, featuring a costume parade and traditional bean stew
Every winter, the Masserano Carnival transforms this small town in the Biella province, in Upper Piedmont, into a vibrant hub of popular celebration. The event takes place along the picturesque tree-lined avenue of the Palazzo dei Principi, the village's landmark monument and former residence of the Ferrero Fieschi family, who ruled the Principality of Masserano for five centuries. In case of bad weather, the festivities move to the Polivalente hall, ensuring the event goes ahead regardless of conditions.
As with many Piedmontese carnivals, the star of the show in Masserano is the traditional fagiolata (bean stew), a hearty dish prepared and served starting at 12:30 PM. This convivial moment kicks off the day: an open-air lunch that brings residents and visitors together over a simple, generous meal deeply rooted in the rural culture of the Biella area.
In the afternoon, starting at 2:30 PM, the costume parade winds through the village streets. The procession is led by the Pietro Generali Band of Masserano, the village's historic musical ensemble, and the Tremarel, the traditional mask that brings the festival to life. Children and adults parade in costume amidst confetti and joy, creating an atmosphere of authentic community celebration.
The day continues with games and entertainment for the little ones and concludes with the best costume award, a highly anticipated moment that honors the most original and well-crafted outfits. It is a family-oriented festival where children are the true stars.
The Carnival is organized by the Masserano Pro Loco in collaboration with the Parents' Association, a testament to the volunteer spirit that keeps carnival traditions alive in the small towns of Piedmont. Attending means discovering an authentic corner of Upper Piedmont, where history, gastronomy, and folk traditions intertwine in a free, open-to-all celebration.
On Sunday, February 8, 2026, the Carnival returned to animate Masserano. The program opened at 12:30 PM with the traditional fagiolata, followed at 2:30 PM by the costume parade through the village streets, accompanied by the Pietro Generali Band and the Tremarel. The day concluded with children's games and the best costume award on the avenue of the Palazzo dei Principi.
Masserano is located in the Biella province, in Upper Piedmont. By car, take the A4 motorway (Carisio exit) and continue towards Cossato and Masserano, or arrive via the A26. The nearest train station is in Cossato, on the Biella-Novara line.
The event is held on the tree-lined avenue of the Palazzo dei Principi. In case of bad weather, the event moves to the municipal Polivalente hall.
Bean stew from 12:30 PM, costume parade from 2:30 PM. Free admission. For information, contact the Masserano Pro Loco or the Municipality.
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Viale del Palazzo dei Principi