The most anticipated and appreciated masked event in Europe, the Carnival of Viareggio, has established itself on the world stage as one of the most entertaining events of its kind.
Every year, large allegorical floats parade along the city’s seafront promenade, humorously portraying the most famous and important characters of the international political scene. The parades are held every weekend during the carnival period until Fat Tuesday. During this time, the whole city is in celebration, and many other events such as art exhibitions, theater performances, and fireworks displays are also held.
The floats featured in the Carnival of Viareggio are created by expert craftsmen, engineers, and designers who work on them for months. They are large papier-mâché structures that, despite their complex architecture, also have moving effects. On top of the floats, numerous costumed performers sing and dance to music, entertaining the audience gathered along the promenade to enjoy the show.
The carnival has been a Viareggio tradition since 1873, but what we know today began to develop in the early 1900s, first with simple wooden floats accompanied by a band, then with papier-mâché, fireworks, and disco music.
Each edition brings thousands of Italian and foreign tourists to the city. Often, political leaders and entertainment personalities also come to Viareggio to personally admire their papier-mâché reproductions.