Ostra Children's Carnival

A Child-Friendly Carnival Celebration

The Ostra Children's Carnival is the traditional Carnival celebration that colors the historic center of Ostra every year, a small village in the Misa Valley in the province of Ancona, in the Marche region. Promoted by Pro Loco Ostra APS with the patronage of the Municipality of Ostra, the event focuses on children and families, transforming the town's streets into a large space for games, colors, and fun.

The Parade Through the Village Streets

The heart of the day is the parade of allegorical floats and masks which starts from Largo Marina, usually in the early afternoon, to cross the streets of the historic center and end in Piazza dei Martiri. The procession is accompanied by the festive notes of the "Ovidio Bartoletti" Civic Music Band of Ostra, while along the route there are plenty of confetti, streamers, and the traditional abundant candy toss, a real highlight for the children.

Schools, Associations, and Community

Local entities actively participate in the celebration: the classes of the "Crocioni" Comprehensive Institute of Ostra, the "Biancaneve" Nursery School, and the children from the "La Giostra" Socio-Educational Center, along with local cultural and sports associations. On the stage in Piazza dei Martiri, local dance schools such as My Dance ASD and Falco Gym Club perform with choreographies designed for the festival. Often, groups and floats from nearby hamlets, such as Brugnetto, Vallone, and Scapezzano, join the procession, demonstrating the event's strong community roots.

Entertainment, Sweets, and Tradition

In addition to the parade, the day offers a shared snack in the square, themed stalls with typical Carnival delicacies, and entertainment for the little ones, including a charity raffle. Venetian-inspired masks, made by local artisans and volunteers, add a touch of elegance to the popular festival. A simple and genuine event, where fun and joy are the only protagonists.

Ostra and the Marche Carnival

Ostra, a medieval village enclosed by its ancient walls, is part of the circuit of historic centers in the Marche region that keep the tradition of popular Carnival alive. The Children's Carnival represents a moment of intergenerational social interaction for the Municipality, capable of attracting residents and visitors from the surrounding towns in the Misa Valley.