Celebrate Carnival on the Italian Riviera
While the French Riviera is celebrating flowers and citrus, Italians celebrate Carnival with costumes, sweet treats and mask making.
What would Italian carnival be without masks? Carnevale is most famous because of Venice and it's lavish and historical celebrations. But the period of Quaresima is a popular time across Italy, especially for kids, and just about every town and city has festivities from 12 - 26 February. Shops are lined with what looks like Halloween distplays, selling costumes ranging from pirates to princesses and everything in-between. Children dress up for school, for church activities and plenty of town events. Weekend festivals will have stations for making masks and confetti is thrown everywhere. Lots of tasty goodies are also to be had, especially the typical chiacchiere di Carnevale, strips of fired dough covered in honey or sugar.
If you're looking for a fun day with the kids, head over the border for a colourful celebration, loads of fun and a fab lunch! Here are some larger celebrations for the whole family.
“Cammino nella Storia”
Ventimiglia
19 February
Every carnival has its own typical character, the 'Walk in History' project proposes a new event presenting a new protagonist linked to the local meaning of this festival. From 2.30 p.m. in the "Piazzetta del Canto", a meeting will be held to present a new surprise character linked to local traditions, who on this occasion will be dressed in an outfit relevant to this feast.
Those who wish to have a souvenir of the day will be able to take the customary photos with the character in an area set up in a fantastic carnival setting. In addition, music, sweets, lots of fun and the opportunity to rediscover ancient flavours will accompany the event.
Carnevale in Maschera
Bordighera
19 February
Starting at 2.30 p.m., Corso Italia will become the stage for lots of entertainment for the youngest children: baby dances, children's make-up, performances by dance schools, street shows and other surprises for lots of fun in keeping with the winter's merriest festival.
From 6.30 pm, again in Corso Italia, there will be music for everyone with the concert by 'Quel Trio Là', a band that will accompany the aperitif hour.
Carnevale di San Giovanni
Imperia
25 February
A family celebration with mask competition. The traditional Carnival organised for many years by the San Giovanni Committee is changing venue. From the historic Piazza San Giovanni it moves to the queen area of the city's events, namely Banchina Aicardi, Porto di Oneglia.
Fun is guaranteed for young and old
Children's make-up and cotton candy. Chocolate and Carnival sweets prepared by Ineja Food volunteers. The invitation is open to all masked participants; prizes will be awarded to the most original masks.