Masks, music, and flavours in the heart of the Bologna Apennines
In the heart of the Bologna Apennines, where the Setta and Savena valleys carve out a landscape of woods and ridges, the Monzuno Carnival transforms the town centre into a celebration of colours, masks, and joy. It is one of the most anticipated events of the carnival season in the small mountain municipalities, capable of attracting families and visitors from the surrounding areas thanks to an authentic and strongly community-based atmosphere.
The event is organised by the Pro Loco Monzuno Association, a historic local volunteer organisation active since 1953, which has always promoted local festivals, events, and traditions. The Carnival is one of the moments when this work becomes most visible: the village streets fill with people, music accompanies the afternoon, and the entire town participates in the festive mood.
The programme combines several typical elements of a village carnival. Food stalls offer traditional specialities and sweets, while the craft market allows visitors to browse local creations and products. The highlight is the parade of masks, which each year chooses a different theme and involves children and adults in a cheerful and participatory procession.
A municipality in the Metropolitan City of Bologna (Province of Bologna), in Emilia-Romagna, Monzuno extends between the Setta and Savena valleys, less than fifty kilometres from the regional capital. Its location makes it an ideal destination for those who want to combine the festival with a day exploring the villages and trails of the Apennines. The Carnival, free for children, is a perfect opportunity to discover the hospitality of this part of the Emilia region's mountains.
The Monzuno Carnival 2026 took place on Saturday 28 February in the town centre, organised by Pro Loco Monzuno. The festival combined entertainment, gastronomy, and the traditional masked parade, with a theme dedicated to cartoons from the last decades of the twentieth century.
Historic centre of Monzuno (BO), Bologna Apennines, Emilia-Romagna. The Pro Loco is located at Piazza XXIV Maggio, 15/a.
By car from Bologna in about an hour, taking the SS65 della Futa or the Setta valley; Monzuno is less than 50 km from the capital. By train, the reference station is on the Bologna-Florence line (Setta area), then continue with local transport.
Free admission for under-18s without registration; for over-18s, a contribution is required with mandatory registration (tel. 333 6780322 or [email protected]).
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Centro storico di Monzuno