Val Borbera Carnival — Allegorical Float Parade and Pentolaccia in Cantalupo Ligure

The Carnival of the Upper Val Borbera

The Val Borbera Carnival is one of the most cherished celebrations in the high valley, nestled in the Apennine hinterland of the province of Alessandria, in Piedmont. It is a widespread event that unites several small towns in the valley—including Albera Ligure, Rocchetta Ligure, and Cantalupo Ligure—in a single, large traveling parade that brings allegorical floats from village to village.

The Allegorical Float Parade

The heart of the festival is the parade of allegorical floats, hand-built and decorated by local groups and the valley's Pro Loco associations. The procession sets off in the early afternoon from Piazza Caduti in Albera Ligure, makes a stop in Rocchetta Ligure, and finally reaches Cantalupo Ligure, accompanied by masks, confetti, and music. Along the route, residents await the passing of the floats, set against a backdrop of valleys and ancient villages that makes this Carnival particularly evocative.

Pentolaccia and Sports Hall Party

Upon arrival in Cantalupo Ligure, the festivities move to the sports hall, where the traditional pentolaccia takes place—a carnival game beloved by children. The event also features DJ music, an awards ceremony for the best floats and masks, and the distribution of frittelle and bugie, the typical pastries of this season. It is a convivial moment that concludes the day and brings the valley's communities together.

A Community Tradition

The Val Borbera Carnival is organized by the Pro Loco associations of the valley's towns, which collaborate every year to bring the parade and entertainment to life. More than just a party, it is a meeting point for the small communities of the Alessandria Apennines, where the tradition of allegorical floats and the pentolaccia game is passed down from generation to generation.

Practical Information

• Where: Parade from Albera Ligure to Cantalupo Ligure (AL), ending at the sports hall
• When: During Carnival, usually on a Sunday afternoon in February
• Admission: Free
• For whom: Families, children, and lovers of folk traditions

In case of bad weather, the parade may be postponed to a following Sunday: it is recommended to check for updates on the official channels of the Municipality of Cantalupo Ligure and the valley's Pro Loco associations.