Santarufinaro Carnival

An identity-driven carnival in the heart of the Rieti area

The Santarufinaro Carnival is one of the most anticipated, authentic, and long-standing events in the Rieti territory. It takes place in the village of Santa Rufina, in the municipality of Cittaducale, in the province of Rieti, Lazio, and for over thirty years it has attracted families and visitors from across the Velino Valley. Built with passion and volunteer effort by the Amici del Carnevale Santarofinaro association, with the patronage of the Municipality of Cittaducale, it is an authentic village carnival where popular tradition is renewed with every edition.

The masked parade and allegorical floats

The heart of the event is the masked parade, which winds through the streets of the village in the afternoon, turning them into a vast open-air theater. Allegorical floats, crafted with artisanal skill by local groups, parade through the streets accompanied by masks, costume groups, marching bands, and spectacular choreography. The route winds through Via Palmiro Togliatti, Viale Don Mario D'Aquilino, Via I Maggio, and Via dello Sport, involving both adults and children in a whirlwind of color, music, and joy.

Tradition, gastronomy, and entertainment

Beyond the parade, the Santarufinaro Carnival offers children's entertainment with games, confetti, and sweets, as well as live performances and roving musical acts. There is no shortage of stalls featuring local specialties and the distribution of traditional carnival treats, such as frappe and castagnole. It is a festival that unites the entire community, from the youngest to the oldest, celebrating the village's identity and a sense of belonging to the territory.

A staple of the Velino Valley

With over thirty editions under its belt, the Santarufinaro Carnival has established itself as one of the most popular carnivals in the Rieti area, attracting visitors from Rieti and the entire Velino Valley. Admission is free, and the event preserves the genuine spirit of a community carnival, where the added value comes from the commitment of volunteers and the participation of the residents. It is an ideal opportunity to discover Santa Rufina di Cittaducale and experience a day of celebration in the most authentic part of Lazio.