🎭 Ronciglione Carnival: Tradition, Color, and a Unique Spectacle in Tuscia

In the heart of Tuscia, Ronciglione transforms into a realm of magic every year between February and March, becoming one of Italy’s most fascinating stages.Ranked among the top ten historic carnivals in the country, the Ronciglione Carnival is a journey through time — blending folk creativity, history, and showmanship in an explosion of color and music.

🏛️ Origins and History: A Dive into the Renaissance

The roots of the carnival date back to 1538, when Pope Paul III Farnese granted the townspeople three days of celebration in honor of his son, Pier Luigi.Since then, the carnival has preserved the spirit of Baroque pageantry, echoing the ancient Roman Saturnalia in a unique mix of tradition and joy.

📜 Program 2025: Three Gala Sundays and Endless Wonder

From February 16 to March 4, 2025, Ronciglione comes alive with extraordinary events, including the famous Gala Parades (on February 16, 23, and March 2).Over 1,000 costumed participants fill Corso Umberto and Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II with spectacular floats, marching bands, and traditional dances.

🎺 Unmissable Highlights:

• 👑 Historical Parade of the Hussars: 19th-century cavalry reenact the romantic legend of the French hussars

• 🌙 Night Carnival: Masks, lights, and evening shows liven up Saturday and Mardi Gras

• 😂 Charge of the Red Noses: Pure carnival mischief! Red noses, oversized shirts, and chamber pots full of rigatoni

• 🔥 Death of King Carnival: A mock funeral, torchlight procession, and the release of a hot-air balloon to end the celebrations

🏇 The Corsa a Vuoto: Riderless Racing and Renaissance Thrills

One of the most thrilling events, the Corsa a Vuoto (Riderless Race) embodies the competitive soul of the carnival.Horses race through the Renaissance streets without jockeys, competing for the honor of their neighborhood.An adrenaline-charged tradition that has stirred the hearts of spectators for over four centuries!

🍬 Sweet Atmosphere and Local Flavors

The carnival is also a triumph of traditional desserts, including:

• 🍩 Castagnole

• 🍯 Frappe (angel wings)

• 🥟 Sweet ravioli

• 🥞 Fregnacce: sweet crêpes filled with sugar, cinnamon, ricotta, or pecorino

Between one show and another, the streets are filled with the irresistible aromas of street food, the rhythm of folk music 🎶, and smiles that warm the soul.

🎉 A Carnival to Live and Remember

The Ronciglione Carnival isn’t just a celebration —it’s an immersive experience filled with period costumes, imaginative floats, ancient rituals, and a community proud of its heritage.

📅 Key Dates – Ronciglione Carnival 2025

📍 Dates	🗓️ Events
February 16 – March 4	Carnival period
February 16, 23, March 2	🎭 Gala Parades
Carnival Saturdays & March 4	🌃 Night Carnival
📍 Historic Town Streets	🏇 Corsa a Vuoto (Riderless Horse Race)