Oleggio Carnival

A tradition spanning generations

The Oleggio Carnival is the most anticipated winter event in Oleggio, a lively town in the Western Ticino area of the province of Novara, in Piedmont. Established in 1951, it has grown to become one of the most iconic carnivals in the Novara region, attracting thousands of visitors every year along the famous Allea avenues. In 2026, the event celebrates its 75th edition, a significant milestone for a festival that weaves together local identity, public participation, and a playful spirit.

Pirìn and Majìn, the symbolic masks

At the heart of the festivities are the two traditional masks, Pirìn and Majìn, historic figures who embody the ironic and straightforward soul of the local people. Pirìn symbolically receives the keys to the city and leads the procession, bringing joy, mischief, and lightheartedness. The roots of these masks run deep in the town's memory, making them a core part of the community's identity.

Three Sundays of parades

The 2026 program revolves around three grand Sunday parades on the Allea avenues, featuring allegorical floats, masquerade groups, marching bands, and dance troupes:

• Sunday, February 1st: Morning opening with the mask procession accompanied by the band, the Pirìn's speech in Piazza Martiri, and the first allegorical float parade in the afternoon.
• Sunday, February 8th: Grand afternoon parade with marching bands and numerous masquerade and folk groups.
• Sunday, February 15th: Final parade of allegorical floats along the Allea.

Shrove Week and the Burning of the Carnival

Beyond the Sundays, the festival engages the entire town during Shrove Week, with Pirìn visiting schools and kindergartens and the traditional Mignà Mignà Chicculin parade through the town center. The grand finale takes place on Tuesday, February 17th: the Children's Carnival in the afternoon, followed in the evening by the solemn Reading of the Pirìn's Testament and the Burning of the Carnival in Piazza Martiri, a cathartic, collective moment that concludes the celebrations.

A festival for everyone

The Carnival is organized by the Ente Manifestazioni Oleggesi (EMO) in collaboration with the Municipality of Oleggio and numerous volunteers, groups, and local associations. Admission is completely free, in keeping with the inclusive and popular spirit of the event. For those visiting the province of Novara, it is the perfect opportunity to discover an authentic Piedmontese carnival tradition, far from the major tourist circuits but brimming with color, music, and human warmth.