Vercelli Carnival (Carvè)

The Carvè, the carnival soul of Vercelli

In the heart of the Piedmontese rice-growing region, in the town of Vercelli (Province of Vercelli), the Vercelli Carnival — which locals affectionately call Carvè in their dialect — has been one of the most beloved winter traditions for centuries. Its origins trace back to 1677, when, according to tradition, the Spanish governor proclaimed a week of festivities following a siege. It was during this era that the two iconic masks, who still reign over the city during the carnival season, were born.

The Bicciolano and the Bèla Majin

The official masks of the Carvè are the Bicciolano and the Bèla Majin, who became the official figures of the festival around 1700. The Bicciolano is a heroic and jovial figure, protector of the people of Vercelli, while the Bèla Majin is his companion. Every year, the city symbolically entrusts them with its keys: in the City Council chamber, the Mayor hands over the keys to the city to the two masks, who "rule" over Vercelli until Ash Wednesday. It is a highly participatory ceremony that brings together masks from neighboring towns and local neighborhood groups, marking the official start of the carnival season.

Papier-mâché floats and popular tradition

The true spectacle of the Carvè lies in the large papier-mâché allegorical floats, colorful and imposing, carefully crafted by local neighborhood groups and associations. During the parades, the procession is led by the float of the Bicciolano and the Bèla Majin, followed by the creations of local groups. The art of working with papier-mâché is passed down from generation to generation, serving as an integral part of Vercelli's popular identity.

A charitable and solidarity-driven carnival

What makes the Carvè truly special is its charitable mission. Defined as "a joyful act of solidarity," the Vercelli Carnival brings smiles and comfort to the most vulnerable: those in difficulty, inmates, and patients in care facilities. With this in mind, the Accademia Bicciolana della Cartapesta was founded—a project that teaches the art of papier-mâché to children and young people with disabilities, whose works are proudly displayed during the first parade. Tradition, entertainment, and care for the most fragile thus coexist in a single, great community event.

The parades and the city in celebration

The two main parades bring the streets of Vercelli's historic center to life, starting from Piazza Pajetta. Between floats, masked groups, music, and the inevitable fagiolata (bean feast), the festival involves the entire city and numerous towns from the province that participate with their own groups. The Vercelli Carnival is one of the most authentic expressions of Piedmontese folklore and is well worth a visit for those looking to discover the carnival tradition of Piedmont away from the more touristy circuits.