The Old Carnival of Corsione

The Old Carnival of the Asti Monferrato

In Corsione, a tiny municipality in the Province of Asti nestled in the hills of the Monferrato, Carnival does not end on Shrove Tuesday. Here, as in many towns and hamlets across the Asti region, the ancient custom of the Old Carnival survives: a celebration held once Lent has already begun, as if to prolong the joy and flavors of the carnival season just a little longer before the period of reflection. It is a popular tradition deeply rooted in rural Piedmont, defined by conviviality, good food, and simple games, which is renewed in Corsione thanks to the efforts of a small but active local association.

A festival for the whole community

The heart of the event is Piazza IV Novembre, home to the town's multipurpose hall. Starting in the early afternoon, the event brings together residents and visitors in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. There are no allegorical floats or grand parades: the charm of the Old Carnival of Corsione lies in its intimate and genuine nature, where the festival is an opportunity to meet, chat, and share a meal.

The Market and the flavors of Corsione

The day is enlivened by the «Il Mercatino di tutto un po'» (A Little Bit of Everything Market), with stalls dedicated to local products, handicrafts, vintage items, comics, and model kits: a small bazaar to browse through. However, the most anticipated moment remains the serving of Corsione-style polenta with sausage and onions, accompanied by a good glass of Barbera wine and a surprise dessert. The afternoon is rounded off with games for adults and children and a bar service that keeps guests company until the evening.

Who organizes it

The event is promoted by the Pro Loco of Corsione in collaboration with the Municipality of Corsione and the Workers' Agricultural Society. It is thanks to this network of volunteers and local entities that a community of just a few hundred inhabitants manages to keep alive a festive tradition that tells the story of the identity of the Asti Monferrato and the Piedmontese countryside.