Pistoia Carnival

The Pistoia Carnival

The Pistoia Carnival is the grand celebration of masks and allegorical floats that brings Pistoia, the capital of the province of the same name in Tuscany, to life every winter. The event is centered in Piazza della Resistenza, a city space also known as Piazza d'Armi, which fills with color, music, and confetti for several Sundays between January and February, serving as the natural stage for the parades.

The Floats of the Four Districts

The absolute stars of the show are the allegorical floats, built throughout the year by volunteers from the four city districts. The result of passion, craftsmanship, and creativity, the floats parade through the square amidst costumed participants and choreography. On some of them, children can climb aboard to experience the excitement of the route firsthand, immersed in colors and confetti. Each edition brings new allegories and original designs to the square, a sign of the vitality of a tradition that renews itself year after year.

A Program for All Ages

The festivities are not limited to the parades. A rich program of side events is organized around the floats, designed especially for families:

• Face painting and pony rides for the little ones;
• Performances by dance schools and numerous local associations (gymnastics, martial arts, sports);
• Food stalls featuring sweet and savory carnival specialties;
• The best costume contest, with prizes awarded for the most imaginative outfits.

A Popular Festival in the Heart of the City

Organized by the City Carnival Committee with the support of the Municipality of Pistoia, the Pistoia Carnival is a highly anticipated event that unites the community and attracts families from across the province. The large, central square hosts the parades in a joyful atmosphere that blends the great Tuscan carnival tradition with the patient work of the districts and the warmth of an authentic city celebration.

Pistoia Beyond the Carnival

Visiting Pistoia during the Carnival is also an opportunity to discover one of Tuscany's most fascinating art cities: the monumental Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral of San Zeno, the Baptistery, and the ancient city markets. Named the Italian Capital of Culture in 2017, Pistoia combines historical heritage, Tuscan gastronomy, and a lively public life, of which the Carnival is one of the most heartfelt expressions.