Siena Carnival – I Bet My Mask On It

Carnival in the heart of Siena

The Siena Carnival, presented under the title "I Bet My Mask On It", is one of the most distinctive winter celebrations in the regional capital. Promoted by the Municipality of Siena under the artistic direction of Vincenzo Bocciarelli, director of the Teatri di Siena, the event brings colour, music, and masks to the city's most famous square, the magnificent Piazza del Campo, and throughout the historic centre in the heart of the Province of Siena, Tuscany.

This is not your typical parade of allegorical floats, but a true carousel of theatre, music, and gatherings: an auteur Carnival that focuses on artistic quality, family engagement, and the enhancement of the city's heritage, from the square to the Fonte Gaia and the historic theatres.

A widespread Carnival, from Fat Thursday to Shrove Tuesday

The festival unfolds throughout the entire Carnival week, from Fat Thursday to Shrove Tuesday, with events designed for diverse audiences. Fat Thursday is dedicated to the little ones with "I Bet My Colours On It": entertainment, face painting, traditional Tuscan games, and masks in Piazza del Campo and the Cortile del Podestà, while Fonte Gaia hosts DJ sets and dancing for everyone.

The weekend combines solidarity and fun: the celebration becomes an opportunity to spread smiles even outside the centre, with entertainment moments, continuing with music for young people and evening theatre. The grand finale is reserved for Shrove Tuesday, when roving Commedia dell'Arte performances and live music bring Piazza del Campo and Fonte Gaia to life.

Theatre, music, and Commedia dell'Arte

One of the distinctive elements of the Sienese Carnival is its bond with the Teatri di Siena. The week of festivities complements the programme of the Teatro dei Rinnovati, featuring performances of a classic from the Italian comic repertoire, and brings traditional masks—from Harlequin to Pulcinella—to the streets in highly popular performances. The presence of musicians, actors, and street performers confirms the Carnival's vocation as a community celebration and a high-quality cultural occasion.

A festival for all ages

Designed as an inclusive and family-friendly event, the Siena Carnival engages children, teenagers, and adults with free activities spread across the city's iconic landmarks. It is the ideal opportunity to experience Siena in an unusual and joyful guise, discovering Piazza del Campo and its monuments animated by masks and shows, away from the summer crowds but immersed in the same timeless charm of the historic centre, a World Heritage site.

Experiencing Siena during Carnival

Participating in the Carnival is also a great reason to visit the Municipality of Siena during the winter months. Between the Cathedral, the Torre del Mangia, the museums, and the contrade, the city offers an extraordinary artistic heritage to be paired with fine Tuscan cuisine and local wines. The free, open-air festival makes the experience accessible to everyone and particularly suitable for families with children.