A family-friendly Carnival celebration in the heart of the village of Ormea
The Ormea Carnival Festival is a popular celebration that brings color, costumes, and joy to the heart of the village in the Upper Tanaro Valley, in the province of Cuneo, in the heart of Piedmont. Organized by the Municipality of Ormea, it is a day designed primarily for families and children, who fill the village streets with costumes, confetti, and a great spirit of fun.
The festival kicks off in Piazza del Municipio, where adults and children gather in costume during the early afternoon. From here, the parade through the village streets begins: a cheerful, colorful procession that winds through the historic center of Ormea, accompanied by music, laughter, and the infectious enthusiasm of a local village Carnival.
After the parade, the festivities continue indoors with activities tailored for the little ones. The Sala Società Operaia is set up with bouncy castles and a communal snack, turning the day into an afternoon of play and togetherness, sheltered from the winter chill of the Cuneo mountains.
This Carnival Festival represents the simpler, more familiar side of Ormea's carnival traditions. It should be distinguished from the famous Historic J'Aboi Carnival, an ancient re-enactment held in the hamlets of Ormea featuring traditional masks and the 'Bal do Sabre' dance. This street festival is an informal occasion where the entire community gathers to celebrate the arrival of Carnival together.
Nestled among the mountains of southern Piedmont, Ormea is one of the most charming villages in the province of Cuneo, known for its medieval historic center, narrow 'carruggi' alleys, and the typical sundials painted on its facades. The Carnival Festival is the perfect opportunity to discover the village during a day of celebration, experiencing the traditions and hospitality of the mountain people firsthand.
La Festa di Carnevale 2026 di Ormea si è tenuta domenica 22 febbraio. L'appuntamento ha preso il via alle ore 15.00 in Piazza del Municipio, da dove è partita la sfilata in maschera per le vie del borgo. La festa è poi proseguita nella Sala Società Operaia, con merenda per tutti e gonfiabili per i bambini fino alle ore 18.00. Nello stesso fine settimana il paese ha ospitato anche la mostra 'I Ricordi del Baule delle Donne' a Palazzo delle Meridiane.
Ormea is located in the Upper Tanaro Valley, in the province of Cuneo. By car, it can be reached via the SS28 from Ceva and Mondovì. By train, it is served by the Ormea station on the Ceva-Ormea line (rail service and replacement buses). The festival takes place in the center of the village, with the meeting point in Piazza del Municipio.
The festival takes place in the afternoon, starting in Piazza del Municipio in the early afternoon, with activities in the Sala Società Operaia continuing until late afternoon. Admission is free. For information: Municipality of Ormea, tel. +39 0174 392157.
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Piazza del Municipio