Villafranca in Lunigiana Carnival

Carnival in the village of the Via Francigena

Every winter, the center of Villafranca in Lunigiana, a small town in the province of Massa-Carrara in Tuscany, transforms into a large open-air stage to celebrate Carnival. Nestled along the ancient Via Francigena and overlooking the Magra River, the village retains a medieval charm that provides the perfect backdrop for one of the most heartfelt and well-attended festivals in the Lunigiana region.

Allegorical floats and masked parades

The heart of the event is the parade of allegorical floats accompanied by masked processions. The meeting point is set on Viale Italia, from where the procession begins, winding through the town streets amidst confetti, streamers, and music. The floats, created by local associations and merchants, bring the afternoon to life with color and imagination, involving both adults and children in an atmosphere of authentic, grassroots celebration.

A child-friendly Carnival

The Villafranca edition is designed especially for families. There is plenty of entertainment for the little ones: music, bouncy castles, and giant bubbles, as well as typical seasonal treats and delicacies. There is also a special guest, always highly anticipated by the children, who makes the day even more magical.

A community festival in Lunigiana

The Villafranca in Lunigiana Carnival is part of the rich carnival tradition of Lunigiana, a land of castles, villages, and ancient customs on the border between Tuscany, Liguria, and Emilia. The event is organized by the Municipality of Villafranca in Lunigiana in collaboration with local associations and merchants, and it is one of the moments when the community comes together to celebrate its own identity.

Useful information

• Parade of allegorical floats and masked processions along Viale Italia
• Entertainment for children with bouncy castles and giant bubbles
• Delicious treats, delicacies, and a special guest
• Free admission
• In case of bad weather, the event will take place in the former municipal building on Via degli Orti