Masked parade in the village and grand finale at the Verdi Theatre
When Carnival arrives, the historic centre of Pollenza — a charming hilltop village in the province of Macerata, in the heart of the Marche region — transforms into a riot of colours, confetti, and streamers. The event, known by the poetic name of "Sunday of Streamers", is one of the most anticipated events of the Pollenza winter: a genuine village festival, designed to involve entire families in the streets and squares of the village.
The highlight is the masked parade, featuring masked groups of adults and children. The procession starts from Piazza Ricci and crosses the historic centre to reach Piazza della Libertà, Pollenza's main square, where music, entertainment, and a delicious distribution of sweets and candies await the participants. It is a participatory and non-competitive parade in spirit: all groups taking part in the event are awarded, a testament to a festival that focuses on the community rather than competition.
The celebrations don't end in the square. In the late afternoon, the festival moves to Pollenza's Giuseppe Verdi Theatre, a historic Italian-style theatre in the centre, where a show dedicated to the little ones is staged. It's a way to extend the magic of Carnival indoors, giving children a moment of theatre and fun at the end of a day entirely dedicated to them.
The Pollenza Carnival is organised by the Pro Loco Corporazione del Melograno APS, with the patronage of the Municipality of Pollenza. It is one of those village festivals that tell the soul of the inner Marche: not very spectacular, deeply felt by the inhabitants, built with the voluntary work of local associations. For those visiting the province of Macerata in winter, it is the perfect opportunity to discover an authentic village in the full swing of its Carnival tradition.
The 2026 edition of the "Sunday of Streamers" animated the historic centre of Pollenza on Sunday, February 8, 2026. The masked parade started at 2:30 PM from Piazza Ricci, winding through the village streets to Piazza della Libertà, where masked groups of adults and children found music, entertainment, and a rich distribution of sweets and candies. As tradition dictates, all participating groups were awarded. The festival continued at 5:30 PM at the Giuseppe Verdi Theatre with the children's show "Peter Pan", produced by the Associazione Lagrù Ragazzi of Fermo. The event was organised by the Pro Loco Corporazione del Melograno APS with the patronage of the Municipality of Pollenza.
Pollenza is located in the province of Macerata, in the Marche region. By car, it can be reached from the SS77 Val di Chienti dual carriageway (Pollenza-Tolentino exit), then ascend towards the historic centre. The nearest train station is Pollenza-Urbisaglia on the Civitanova Marche–Albacina line; alternatively, Macerata station is a few kilometres away.
Participation in the parade is open to masked groups upon registration with the Pro Loco Corporazione del Melograno APS (tel. 338 2640436, email [email protected]). Access to the parade in the square is free. A ticket is required for the evening show at the Verdi Theatre.
As this is an outdoor event in mid-winter, warm clothing is recommended. The village is on a hilltop: it's best to park in the areas outside the centre and walk to the squares.
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Centro storico di Pollenza
Piazza della Libertà, 62010 Pollenza