Real Carnevale Venariese
The grand parade of floats and masks in the heart of Venaria Reale
About Real Carnevale Venariese
A historic tradition in Venaria Reale
The Real Carnevale Venariese is one of the most cherished and well-attended events in Venaria Reale, a city in the Metropolitan City of Turin famous for its majestic Royal Palace. Now in its 48th edition in 2026, the Carnival enlivens the historic center with a grand parade that attracts thousands of locals and visitors from the Turin area every year.
The official masks: Lucio d'la Venaria and the Castellana
The symbolic heart of the event lies in the city's two historic masks: the Lucio d'la Venaria and the Castellana. Each year, two citizens are officially invested with these roles during a ceremony preceding the parade, signaling the start of the celebrations. The two masks lead the procession, representing the popular and regal soul of Venaria, a city that grew in the shadow of the Savoy residence.
Allegorical floats and masked groups
The parade winds through the streets and squares of the center, featuring allegorical floats built by local committees and associations, dozens of masked groups, marching bands, scouts, volunteer organizations, and many families with children in costume. It is a participatory festival where the Altessano district and the entire Venaria community come together to share the joy of Carnival.
Entertainment, sweets, and festive atmosphere
Beyond the parade, the Real Carnevale Venariese offers entertainment for children, colorful balloons, live music, and delicious treats, including the essential bugie (typical Piedmontese carnival fritters) and hot chocolate provided by local parish volunteers. Confetti and streamers complete the joyful atmosphere that takes over the town squares.
A family-friendly event in Piedmont
Free and open to all, the Real Carnevale Venariese is an unmissable stop on the Piedmontese carnival circuit, perfect for those seeking an authentic, popular celebration just a few kilometers from Turin. Organized by the Pro Loco of Altessano and Venaria Reale with the support of the City of Venaria Reale and the Via Maestra Foundation, it blends tradition, folklore, and community spirit.
Real Carnevale Venariese — edition 2026
The 48th edition of the Real Carnevale Venariese enlivened the center of Venaria Reale on Sunday, February 8, 2026, following the traditional official mask investiture ceremony held on Saturday, January 31. The parade colored the city squares with confetti, music, and masks, once again confirming the Venaria community's strong bond with this popular festival.
Programme Real Carnevale Venariese 2026
Sunday, February 8, 2026 — The grand parade
- 2:30 PM — Parade departure from Piazza De Gasperi
- Route: via Leopardi, corso Papa Giovanni XXIII, via Arduino Iseppon, corso Giuseppe Garibaldi, piazza Vittorio Veneto, via Mensa, piazza Annunziata, via Mensa, piazza della Repubblica (float exit via via Castellamonte)
- 3:00 PM — In Piazza Annunziata, entertainment by Scouts and Parishes with colorful balloons distributed by AVIS
- 4:00 PM — Distribution of bugie and hot chocolate offered by volunteers from the Santa Maria Parish
Masks and floats
Leading the procession were the traditional masks of the Lucio d'la Venaria and the Castellana, portrayed by Alessandro Malusa and Eleonora Talarico, followed by 26 masked groups and four allegorical floats: Amore Impossibile from Reano, Il Conte Verde from Rivoli, I Tuney Loones from Bruere, and the Venaus Piemonte float. The event also featured the Giuseppe Verdi Musical Corps, the Fire Brigade, Civil Protection, and numerous local associations.
Investiture ceremony
On Saturday, January 31, 2026, the official mask investiture ceremony was held, a moment that traditionally opens the Venaria Carnival celebrations.
Highlights Real Carnevale Venariese 2026
Prices Real Carnevale Venariese 2026
Practical information — Real Carnevale Venariese
How to get there
Venaria Reale is located a few kilometers north of Turin. By car, it can be reached via the Turin ring road, taking the Venaria exit. By train, the Venaria Reale station is connected to Turin via the SFM line; numerous GTT bus lines also connect the city to the regional capital. During the parade, many streets in the center are closed to traffic: it is advisable to park in peripheral areas and reach the center on foot.
When
The Carnival traditionally takes place between the end of January (mask investiture ceremony) and the day of the grand parade, in February or March depending on the year.
Costs
Admission and participation in the parade are free.
Tips
Event suitable for families and children. Bring confetti, a costume, and comfortable clothing; in case of cold weather, hot chocolate is always available along the route.
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Where does it take place — Real Carnevale Venariese
Centro storico di Venaria Reale
Piazza De Gasperi, 10078 Venaria Reale