San Miniato Carnival

The historic San Miniato Carnival

The San Miniato Carnival is one of the most cherished winter traditions in the municipality of San Miniato, a medieval village perched on the hills of the Province of Pisa, in the heart of Tuscany between Pisa and Florence. Every winter, the historic center fills with color, music, and masks for a parade that involves the town's various districts in a festive atmosphere that brings together both young and old.

A tradition born in 1972

The event has its roots in 1972, when it was conceived by local artist Dilvo Lotti. Originally, the parade featured painted floats pulled by oxen, a genuine expression of the Tuscan rural world; over the years, the event has evolved, making room for masked groups representing the various areas of the town. Today, the Pro Loco of San Miniato keeps this tradition alive with the contribution of the Fondazione CRSM and the support of the Comitato Manifestazioni Popolari.

The parade and masked groups

The procession kicks off from Piazza XX Settembre and winds through the streets of the historic center to Piazza del Seminario. Masked groups parade to bring the chosen theme of the year to life, complete with meticulously crafted costumes and choreography. The afternoon is accompanied by the Filarmonica Del Bravo and the music of DJ Patrizio Carlini, who keep the atmosphere lively along the entire route.

Awards and ceremony

At the end of the parade, in Piazza del Seminario, the traditional awards ceremony takes place: three prizes are awarded to the costumes that best reflect the year's theme. A snack is provided for all participants, in a convivial finale that seals the day of celebration.

A Carnival for the whole family

Alongside the historic center parade, San Miniato also celebrates with the San Miniato Basso Children's Carnival, an event dedicated to the little ones featuring handmade floats and musical accompaniment. Together, the two celebrations make the San Miniato Carnival a beloved event for the entire region, capable of renewing the spirit of Tuscan folk tradition year after year.