Vicopisano Carnival
Edition 2026 Street arts Folk traditions Folklore

Vicopisano Carnival

The Carnival celebration in the 'Orange Flag' village, featuring floats, giant 'frati' doughnuts, and a little train in Piazza Cavalca

Vicopisano — Pisa (050)
Dates 25 Jan — 22 Feb 2026
Location Vicopisano (050)
Prices Free
Status Finished

About Vicopisano Carnival

The Vicopisano Carnival is one of the most beloved popular festivals in the province of Pisa, Tuscany. Every year, between January and February, the charming Piazza Cavalca in this medieval village fills with color during the masked parades: allegorical floats, music, games, entertainment, the iconic little train, and the famous 'frati giganti' (giant doughnuts). This completely free event is designed to welcome children, families, and visitors of all ages in an atmosphere of joy and lightheartedness.

The Vicopisano Carnival

In the heart of Tuscany, just a few kilometers from Pisa, the Vicopisano Carnival brings the characteristic medieval village overlooking the Monte Pisano to life every winter. Recognized as an Orange Flag destination by the Italian Touring Club, Vicopisano provides the perfect backdrop for one of the most heartfelt Carnival celebrations in the region, drawing families and curious visitors from across the area.

A Popular and Free Festival

The masked parades take place in the central Piazza Cavalca, the beating heart of the event, with completely free admission for everyone. The program spans several dates between January and February, offering afternoons of fun and lightheartedness that are particularly appreciated by families with children.

Floats, Giant Doughnuts, and a Little Train

The Vicopisano Carnival is famous for its colorful and lively atmosphere. The attractions that bring the square to life always include:

  • Allegorical floats created by the Committee's volunteers;
  • The famous "frati giganti", the true mascots of the festival;
  • The little train that delights the youngest visitors;
  • Music, dancing, games, and entertainment for all ages;
  • Masked characters, surprises, and typical Carnival treats.

A Village Tradition

The event is organized by the Vicopisano Carnival Committee, which brings together volunteers and enthusiasts every year to bring this historic festival to life. In addition to the events in the village, some editions include a day dedicated to Fat Thursday in the hamlet of Uliveto Terme, at Parco Sandro Pertini.

A Carnival in the Heart of Tuscany

Visiting the Vicopisano Carnival means combining a popular festival with the discovery of one of the most beautiful villages in the province of Pisa, in Tuscany: medieval alleys, the famous Rocca del Brunelleschi, and authentic hospitality set the stage for a day of shared joy for both adults and children.

Vicopisano Carnival — edition 2026

The 2026 edition of the Vicopisano Carnival took place in Piazza Cavalca, with the first masked parade on Sunday, January 25, followed by events on February 15, 17, and 22. A free festival featuring allegorical floats, a little train, music, games, and entertainment for children and families. This edition was dedicated to Gianfranco Svani, a member and founder of the historic event, who recently passed away.

Vicopisano Carnival 2026

The 2026 edition brought Piazza Cavalca to life with four events: the first masked parade on Sunday, January 25, followed by dates on February 15, 17, and 22. Free admission for everyone.

As per tradition, the afternoons featured allegorical floats, the little train for the youngest, music, games, masked characters, entertainment, and the unmissable giant doughnuts. This edition was dedicated to Gianfranco Svani, a member and founder of the event, who recently passed away.

Programme Vicopisano Carnival 2026

  • Sunday, January 25 - First masked parade in Piazza Cavalca
  • Sunday, February 15 - Masked parade in Piazza Cavalca
  • Tuesday, February 17 (Fat Tuesday) - Masked parade
  • Sunday, February 22 - Final masked parade

All events take place in Piazza Cavalca in the afternoon (approximately from 2:30 PM).

Highlights Vicopisano Carnival 2026

  • Allegorical floats created by the Committee's volunteers
  • The famous giant doughnuts
  • Little train for children
  • Music, dancing, games, and entertainment
  • Edition dedicated to Gianfranco Svani, founder of the event

Prices Vicopisano Carnival 2026

Free admission to all events.

Practical information — Vicopisano Carnival

Location

The masked parades take place in Piazza Cavalca, in the historic center of Vicopisano (PI). Some editions include an event for Fat Thursday in Uliveto Terme, at Parco Sandro Pertini.

How to get there

By car: Vicopisano can be reached via the SS67 and the provincial road from Pisa and Pontedera. By train: the nearest stations are in Pisa and Pontedera, with bus connections to the village.

Hours and Admission

The parades are held in the afternoon (approximately from 2:30 PM). Free admission to all events.

Information

Vicopisano Carnival Committee - email: [email protected]. Municipality of Vicopisano: www.comune.vicopisano.pi.it

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Where does it take place — Vicopisano Carnival

Piazza Cavalca

Contact Vicopisano Carnival

Vicopisano Carnival in brief

Street arts Folk traditions Folklore Family Children Playful Outdoor Free Pisa

History of Vicopisano Carnival