The Carnival parade in the centre of Sasso Marconi, with masks, floats and food stands
The Sasso Marconi Carnival is one of the most beloved festivals in the calendar of the Municipality, on the outskirts of the Bolognese Apennines, in Emilia-Romagna. Organised by Pro Loco Sasso Marconi in collaboration with local associations, schools and families, and with the patronage of the Municipality, it is a popular and free event that transforms the town centre into a grand celebration of masks, colours and joy.
The heart of the event is the masked parade that winds through the streets of the centre: parade floats, masked groups, marching bands, confetti, balloons and sweets accompany young and old along the route. The procession starts from the Piazzale del Mercato and winds its way to the central Piazza dei Martiri della Liberazione, enlivened by food stands from local associations.
The Sasso Marconi Carnival is designed primarily for families. Each edition features a different theme, with shows, entertainment, bouncy castles, games and surprises for the little ones. The day generally concludes in the late afternoon, when the celebration continues with music, sweets and typical Emilian specialities.
Alongside the parades, an important part of the festival is dedicated to popular Emilian cuisine. The associations' stands offer local specialities such as crescentine, tigelle, cakes and biscuits, as well as snacks designed for the younger audience. There are also convivial moments featuring polenta and other specialities that accompany the festive afternoon.
More than just a parade, the Sasso Marconi Carnival is an opportunity for the entire community to come together: schools, volunteer associations, spontaneous groups and families collaborate in the creation of floats and entertainment. It is this participatory spirit that makes the festival so cherished, an event that each year draws residents and visitors from the surrounding areas of the Metropolitan City of Bologna to the town centre.
The 2026 Children's Carnival of Sasso Marconi was held on Sunday, March 1, 2026, organised by Pro Loco Sasso Marconi. The edition was entirely dedicated to the little ones, with the theme of "Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory".
The gathering was set from 2:00 PM in the square, with the parade of masks at 2:30 PM: the highlight of the day, where children paraded, giving free rein to their imagination amidst music and colours. In the afternoon, "Chocolate Factory" themed games, delicious challenges and numerous surprises took place, as well as shows for families.
There were also food stands with chocolate, cakes and biscuits. Among the initiatives of the edition, ten "Golden Tickets" were distributed among schoolchildren, guaranteeing free access to special factory games.
The Carnival generally takes place on a Sunday afternoon between late February and early March, with gathering in the early afternoon (around 2:00 PM) and the parade to follow. Admission is free.
Sasso Marconi is located about 15 km south of Bologna, along the Via Porrettana (SS64) and the Reno valley. By train: Sasso Marconi station is on the Bologna-Porretta-Pistoia line, a short walk from the centre. By car: take the Sasso Marconi exit from the A1 Motorway (Milan-Naples). The nearest airport is Bologna Guglielmo Marconi.
Pro Loco Sasso Marconi โ Via Stazione 86/2, 40037 Sasso Marconi (BO). Tel. +39 051 0548877, e-mail [email protected].
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Piazzale del Mercato e Piazza dei Martiri della Liberazione
Piazzale del Mercato, 40037 Sasso Marconi