Old Carnival of Roatto

The Carvè Veij, the historic carnival of Roatto

The Old Carnival of Roatto, which locals call Carvè Veij in the Piedmontese dialect, is one of the most cherished and long-standing events in the festive calendar of the Asti Monferrato. It takes place in Roatto, a small town in the province of Asti, in the heart of Piedmont. In 2026, it reached its 48th edition: a milestone that testifies to how deeply this festival is woven into the town's identity.

A popular community festival

Unlike the large-scale carnivals featuring elaborate floats, the Carvè Veij of Roatto preserves the genuine character of a village feast. The afternoon kicks off with a masked parade that winds through the town center; everyone is invited to dress up, from children to adults, in a cheerful and inclusive atmosphere. The festival is entirely organized by the Pro Loco of Roatto, which has dedicated decades to curating the event, keeping alive a tradition that unites different generations.

Music, entertainment, and games

Live music and entertainment take center stage, with performers enlivening the afternoon and keeping the party going until evening. There is no shortage of children's games in the square, including the traditional pignatte (clay pots) to break, along with fun activities designed for all ages. It is a festival that centers on sharing and togetherness, in the true spirit of Carnival.

Traditional gastronomy of the Monferrato

One of the most beloved aspects of the Old Carnival is its generous food offering, which is free for all participants. The Pro Loco serves polenta and stew in abundance, accompanied by wine and steaming mulled wine to warm up during the chilly days of late winter. To complete the feast, volunteers prepare bruschetta and traditional desserts, offering an experience that showcases the rustic cuisine of the Asti territory.

Why attend

The Carvè Veij of Roatto is the ideal opportunity to discover the authentic carnival tradition of the Monferrato, far from the crowds of major events. Between masks, music, local flavors, and the warm hospitality of the Pro Loco, it is a festival that embodies the convivial spirit of Piedmontese villages and is well worth a visit for those who want to experience Carnival in a simple and truly popular way.