Carnival festival guides

Learn how Iraklio celebrates Apokries, the Greek carnival season before Lent. From the Kastrino Karnavali with its stilt walkers to Tsiknopempti and Clean Monday kite flying, this guide covers local customs, key events, and how to plan a visit without fixed dates.

Discover Nafplio's Carnival, a lively Apokries celebration rooted in Venetian heritage. Learn about the parades, events, Clean Monday kite flying, and practical travel tips to make the most of your visit.

The Arrecife Carnival Gran Cabalgata typically departs from the Cruz Roja roundabout, passes the football pitch, bus station, and Open Mall, and finishes at Agramar in Puerto Naos. A quiet zone without loud music or flashing lights covers the first stretch.

Bilbao's carnival, known locally as Aratuste, is a pre-Lenten celebration filled with parades, costume contests, and unique Basque traditions. Learn about the trial of Farolín and Zarambolas, the burning of the sardine, and how to plan your visit to this lively event in the Basque Country.

Each year on Ash Wednesday, Arrecife says goodbye to its Carnival with the Entierro de la Sardina, a satirical funeral procession that winds from the Arrecife Gran Hotel to Playa de la Rocar. Learn what to wear, who takes part, and where the sardine is finally burned.

Every winter Chambéry turns its city center into a stage for a community-built carnival parade. This guide covers what to expect, how the festival is made by locals, past themes, and how you can join the fun on your visit.

Blois, in the heart of the Loire Valley, hosts a rich calendar of festivals year-round. From the history-focused Rendez-vous de l'Histoire in October to the free bd BOUM comics festival in November, there's a celebration for every season. This guide breaks down the city's major annual events by month, highlights free and family-friendly options, and gives practical tips for planning your visit.

The Putignano Carnival in Puglia dates back to 1394 and is known for its papier-mâché floats and satirical parades. While many street events are free, attending the main parades usually requires a ticket. Prices change annually, so check the organizer's official channels for current details.

The Putignano Carnival takes place in the town of Putignano, about 40 kilometers from Bari. Whether you choose the train, drive, or rely on shuttle services, planning ahead is key for parade weekends. Here’s a practical comparison to help you decide.

The Carnevale di Fano brings thousands of visitors to the city, so choosing the right base matters. Consider proximity to the parade, parking, and booking early. Here's how to pick.

Discover the Carnival of Acireale, a late-winter spectacle of papier-mâché and flower floats in Sicily's baroque heart. Our guide covers its history, what to expect, and how to plan your visit.

The red Phrygian hat, or berretto frigio, is essential at Ivrea Carnival. It marks you as a non-combatant, so you won't be targeted by orange throwers. Find out how to get one and the rules for wearing it.