The historic Canavese carnival featuring the Gavason, the bean feast, and the nocturnal parade of allegorical floats in Ozegna
In the small town of Ozegna, located in the province of Turin and in the heart of the Canavese, the Ozegna Carnival represents one of the most heartfelt events of the Piedmontese winter. For nearly half a century, this popular festival has enlivened the streets and squares of the town, drawing residents, families, and curious visitors from neighboring towns. More than just a simple carnival, it is a collective ritual that strengthens the identity of an entire community.
The beating heart of the event is the Gavason, the masks that symbolize the Ozegna Carnival. Each year, two members of the local community are chosen to step into the roles of the Gavason and lead the festivities, accompanied by a lady-in-waiting and a page. Tradition dictates that the keys to the town are symbolically handed over to the Gavason, marking the official opening of the carnival. Their presentation at the sports hall kicks off every edition in an atmosphere of celebration and great popular participation.
Among the most anticipated moments is the bean feast: the distribution of traditional "fat beans" at the "Natalina Marena" sports hall is a historic appointment, followed by a convivial lunch with the Gavason. It is one of those moments where the simple, genuine cuisine of the Canavese tradition becomes an occasion for meeting and celebration for the whole town.
The highlight of the Ozegna Carnival is the nocturnal parade of allegorical floats and masked walking groups along Piazza Umberto I. The floats, the result of the creativity and craftsmanship of local associations, parade accompanied by the "Succa Renzo" marching band and the "Les A' Marena" majorettes, offering colors, music, and joy. Closing the evening is the characteristic bonfire, a symbol of rebirth and good omens.
The Ozegna Carnival is organized by the Pro Loco of Ozegna with the support of the municipal administration and numerous local associations. It is an event that testifies to the vitality of volunteering and associations in the small towns of Piedmont, where traditions are guarded and passed down from generation to generation. The grand finale arrives with the closing lunch featuring polenta and cod, the final act of a festival that every year confirms the strong bond between Ozegna and its carnival.
The 49th edition of the Ozegna Carnival opened on Saturday, January 24, 2026, with the official presentation of the Gavason at the sports hall. The protagonists of the year were Fabrizio Ferrero and Silvia Digiacomo, joined by their children Ludovica and Niccolò in the roles of lady-in-waiting and page.
On Sunday, January 25, after the 10:00 AM Holy Mass, the traditional bean feast took place: at 11:30 AM, the distribution of fat beans at the "Natalina Marena" sports hall area, followed at 12:30 PM by the lunch with the Gavason.
On Saturday, January 31, at 9:00 PM, the highlight was the nocturnal parade of allegorical floats and walking groups in Piazza Umberto I, concluded by the characteristic bonfire. The festival closed on Sunday, February 8, with a lunch featuring polenta and cod at 12:30 PM at the sports hall.
Ozegna is located in the Canavese area, in the province of Turin. By car, it can be reached from the A5 Turin-Aosta motorway (Scarmagno or Ivrea exit), continuing towards Rivarolo Canavese and Ozegna. By train, the nearest station is Rivarolo Canavese, on the Canavese railway line, from which you can continue by bus or car.
The events mainly take place in Piazza Umberto I (float parade and bonfire) and at the "Natalina Marena" sports hall (presentation of the Gavason, bean feast, and closing lunch).
For the updated program and details on how to participate in the lunches, it is recommended to contact the Pro Loco of Ozegna or consult the website of the Municipality of Ozegna.
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Piazza Umberto I