Vergato Historical Carnival
The historic carnival of the Bologna Apennines, with allegorical floats, masks, and popular tradition
About Vergato Carnival
A tradition over a century old in the Bologna Apennines
The Vergato Historical Carnival is one of the most beloved popular festivals in the Municipality of Vergato, in the Bologna Apennines, in Emilia-Romagna. With over one hundred and forty years of history, it represents a cultural, social, and community focal point for the entire Reno Valley. The event is included in the Regional Register of Historical Carnivals of Emilia-Romagna, which brings together the twenty most significant carnival traditions in the region.
Allegorical floats and masks through the town streets
The heart of the carnival is the grand masked parade that winds through the streets of Vergato, featuring the return of the allegorical floats created by local carnival societies. Masked groups, confetti, live music, and artistic performances transform the town center into a widespread celebration, capable of engaging children, young people, and adults in an atmosphere of joy and participation.
The festival program
The events kick off in Piazza Capitani della Montagna, usually starting at 12:00 PM, with the opening of the food stall and play areas. The day continues in the early afternoon, around 2:30 PM, with the masked parade along the town's streets and entertainment shows spread throughout the area.
- Parade of allegorical floats and masked groups
- Food stall with local specialties
- Play areas and inflatables for children
- Live music, entertainment, and street performances
Organization and community
The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Vergato in collaboration with the Municipality, the Municipal Library, and numerous local associations. Safety and assistance during the events are guaranteed by the Local Police, Carabinieri, Civil Protection, Red Cross, and AVIS, confirming the strong community spirit that characterizes this event.
A carnival for the whole family
Set in a small Apennine village between Bologna and Pistoia, the Vergato Historical Carnival is an authentically popular festival, ideal for those who wish to discover local traditions away from the major tourist crowds. Admission is free, and the atmosphere is that of genuine village carnivals, where the celebration arises from the work and passion of volunteers.
Vergato Carnival — edition 2026
144th edition: the return of the allegorical floats
The 2026 edition marked the 144th edition of the Vergato Historical Carnival, with the return of the allegorical floats parading through the streets of Vergato. The event took place over two consecutive Sundays, February 8 and 15, 2026, attracting a large audience.
The program for the two days
The activities began in Piazza Capitani della Montagna starting at 12:00 PM, with the opening of the food stall and play areas, including inflatables for the little ones. From 2:30 PM, the masked parade commenced along the town's streets, accompanied by allegorical floats, shows, and musical moments.
The event, coordinated by the Pro Loco of Vergato chaired by Mariella Sileo, saw the collaboration of numerous carnival associations and volunteers, with the support of the Local Police, Carabinieri, Civil Protection, Red Cross, and AVIS.
Programme Vergato Carnival 2026
Sundays, February 8 and 15, 2026 — Piazza Capitani della Montagna, Vergato
- 12:00 PM — Opening of the food stall and play areas with inflatables for children
- 2:30 PM — Masked parade along the town streets with allegorical floats from carnival societies
- Shows, entertainment, and live music throughout the center
Highlights Vergato Carnival 2026
- Return of allegorical floats after editions without them
- 144th edition of a tradition over a century old
- Masked parade in the heart of Vergato
- Food stall and play areas for families
Prices Vergato Carnival 2026
Practical information — Vergato Carnival
How to get there
Vergato is located in the Bologna Apennines, along the Reno Valley, less than 50 km from Bologna. By car, it can be reached via the SS64 Porrettana. By train, it is served by the Bologna-Porretta-Pistoia railway line, with Vergato station just a few minutes' walk from the center.
Admission
Admission to the carnival events is free.
Information
For the updated program, dates, and times, please consult the official channels of the Pro Loco of Vergato.
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Where does it take place — Vergato Carnival
Piazza Capitani della Montagna