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Carnevale Estense: a party in the heart of the city to learn about tradition
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Passionate about historical masks and Carnival disguises? Then don't miss the Estense Carnival celebrations in Ferrara, 17 and 18 February!
A time to experience in advance the classic atmosphere of the city's famous Palio, one of the oldest in the world, traditionally held in May, but also to spoil yourself with some traditional sweets and be entertained by games, parades, and shows.
Carnevale Estense will welcome you to the piazza, from 10.30 a.m. on Saturday 25 February, to celebrate together the classic overturning of the rules that the merriest feast of the year brings!
The Carnival period is one of the most anticipated by both adults and children: the streets fill with colors, featuring traditional masks, elaborate costumes, and creative makeup. Fantastic characters come to life in city centers, creating a festive atmosphere that sweeps away the stress of daily life. There are puppet shows, fun games, surprising performances, costume parades, confetti battles, all complemented by excellent carnival cuisine!
The appointment is set for Saturday, February 17, and Sunday, February 18, from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm.
For adults, there is the fair of carnival excellences and specialties: agricultural companies, small producers, pastry shops, and artisanal workshops will showcase Italian gastronomic excellences in the square, satisfying every palate. Among these, local traditional specialties are, of course, not to be missed – all waiting to be discovered!
The event kicks off on Saturday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a grand procession led by the Estense mask Lasagnin Mezacervela. Historical dances, weapon games, and performances continue with the participation of various associations. Sunday morning, at Sala Estense, features a presentation and tasting of the Ferrarese macaroni pie. Following this, historical dance performances by the Calcagnini d’Este Historical Dance Group. At 4:30 pm, from Piazza Savonarola to Piazza Municipio, there's a parade of theme-dressed children, and at 5:00 pm, also at Sala Estense, the show 'Viva viva viva i burattini' takes place.
The fair of Carnival excellences and specialties fills the squares with gastronomic stalls from over 80 agricultural companies and local producers, offering a wide range of traditional dishes and delicacies. Craft beers, indigenous wines, cured meats, cheeses, and regional specialties complete the offering, ensuring a diverse culinary experience.
Ferrara will surprise you with its fascinating traditions, mouth-watering cuisine and enthralling parades: even at Carnival every advice counts! Discover the experiences Inferrara has thought up for you!