The 2025 Carnival opens today. The traditional triple cannon shot kicks off the first parade of allegorical floats, extraordinary works by the artists of Viareggio. The parade is preceded by the Inauguration Ceremony which culminates in the long-awaited moment of the flag-raising. The Viareggio Carnevale is one if the most important Carnevale events in Italy an Europe. The floats in the parade in Viareggio are renowned as being the biggest floats in the world.

Floats have always been the centerpiece of the Viareggio Carnival and represent its soul and history. Every year, artists devote themselves to creating these huge and intricate papier-mâché sculptures, and more, real works of art in motion.

Satirical floats are an old tradition in Viareggio, dating back to the first parade in 1873, when they were used to depict political and social issues of the time in an ironic and provocative way. Even today, the satirical aspect is central, with the floats pillarying well-known figures, vices and problems of society.

The majestic floats, with their imaginative and colourful shapes, are the soul of the Viareggio Carnival and attract thousands of tourists each year eager to admire these extraordinary, handcrafted creations.

At the end of the parade of floats that lasts until the evening lights, the first fireworks display is scheduled to open the month of Carnival. MORE INFO