Carnevale is most associated with the colourful and extravagant celebrations that take place in Venice each year but if you were thinking about booking a villa in Tuscany early next year, you will be happy to know that there are lots of great carnival events taking place all throughout the region.
But what is Carnevale?
Carnevale is an annual festival and party that takes place in lots of different Catholic countries between January and March and between Epiphany and Easter.
The word, "carnival," (“carnevale” in Italian) comes from the Latin words, "carnem levare", a which refer to the practice of avoiding meat and fasting by many members of the Catholic church during the 40 days before Easter, the period known as Lent.
Carnevale is the last big hurrah in the weeks running up to Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday, from which point a period of abstaining from worldly pleasures begins. Today many do not give up meat or fast but, rather, give up something that they really enjoy instead such as chocolate, alcohol, etc. So, it is, therefore, a big celebration before a time of discipline and sacrifice.
What happens at Carnevale?
During the Carnevale celebrations, there are often parades with elaborate floats, parties, masked balls (famously a big part of the celebrations of Venice) and a whole host of other events for children and adults
Where are there Carnevale celebrations in Tuscany?
Those who book a vacation rental in Tuscany can enjoy Carnevale events in the following cities and towns:
Viareggio (one of the most famous Carnevale destinations in Tuscany)
San Gimignano
Vicchio
Borgo San Lorenzo
Florence (with an amazing parade)
Foiano della Chiana
Follonica
Piombino
Marlia
Bibbiena
Castiglion Fibocchi
Other smaller, local events will likely take place as well – it’s best to keep your eyes open. For the most up-to-date on Carvnevale dates and events each year, it is a good idea to search for events in specific destinations. But, you can rest assured that if you book a holiday rental in Viareggio or a vacation rental in Florence during the Carnevale period on any given year that you are guaranteed to have an array of events to choose from!