A Day at the Carnival of Viareggio

Venice’s carnival — rich in fine costumes, larger-than-life parties and endless evenings — may get more global attention, but the festival in Tuscany’s Viareggio is well worth attending. The festival, first started in 1873, takes place through February and March, with processions held on Sundays and one on Fat Tuesday.

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Be sure to purchase tickets to the parade at the Fondazione Carnevale on Piazza Mazzini. Attendees are encouraged to dress up in elaborate, imaginative costumes and masks. The Burlamacco, the official “creature” and mask of the Carnival in Viareggio (red-and-white-checkered suit with a pointed hat and long black cape) and is inspired by characters from Italian history like Harlequin, Balanzone, Pierrot and Rugantino.

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Burlamacco’s float is followed by with masked females dubbed the “Ondina” in honor of Viareggio’s link with the water. Line up early along the parade route to get a great position to see the papier-mâché floats poking fun at social events and bringing to mind the region’s rich history. Looking to see more of the previous years’ masks? Head to the Museo del Carnevale for a peek at the giant walking masks used in past processions.