We are entering the heart of Carnevale 2026: Fat Week has begun, and towns in the Castelli Romani are gearing up for the most intense stretch of the Carnival season. While most people think of the famous Carnevale in Venice or the large parades in Viareggio, Carnevale is celebrated throughout Italy — and the Castelli Romani is no exception.
What is Carnevale?
Carnevale is a lively pre-Lenten celebration known for its masks, colorful parades, street festivities, and fried treats.
People of all ages wear masks and costumes, attend parades of floats, and fill the streets with music and celebration. Confetti and streamers are thrown everywhere, and silly string and foam are sprayed in abundance.
You can feast on traditional fried sweets such as chiacchiere or frappe (the Roman name), frittelle, and castagnole.
When is Carnevale?
The dates vary every year because they are tied to the religious calendar.
In 2026, the Carnevale period began on Tuesday, January 6 (Epiphany) and ends on Tuesday, February 17, known as Martedì Grasso (Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday).
Two important days are Giovedì Grasso (Fat Thursday) – February 12 and Martedì Grasso (Fat Tuesday) – February 17.
Towns in the Castelli Romani also hold celebrations on the two preceding weekends.
Where is Carnevale Celebrated in the Castelli Romani?
While this list is not exhaustive these are the main Carnevale celebrations in the Castelli Romani:
Frascati - Carnevale di Frascati
The Carnevale di Frascati is considered one of the most popular in the Lazio region. It features the famous Pulcinellata, where hundreds of people parade through the streets in traditional white costumes and black masks.
It concludes with a symbolic “funeral procession” and the burning of Pulcinella, followed by a fireworks display against the stunning backdrop of Villa Aldobrandini.
This year, Frascati also has a ferris wheel and a trampoline as additional attractions.
Genzano di Roma - Carnevale Genzanese
Held in my town, this celebration is closest to my heart. I love the family-friendly, festive atmosphere — the parade of floats traveling up and down the street, the music and the pure joy of the confetti showers.
What truly sets Genzano apart is the traditional launching of sausage sandwiches from the floats. Not only do they throw confetti, but also freshly cooked, hot sausage sandwiches!
The sausages are grilled right on the floats, placed inside the famous IGP bread of Genzano, wrapped in bags, and tossed into the crowd.
One year I thought I hit the jackpot — I caught not one, but two sandwiches in one day. They were still hot and steaming inside the bag. My husband, who has lived in Genzano his whole life, said he has never caught one!
Velletri - Carnevale Popolare Veliterno
The 2026 edition will feature parades with 10 floats and masked costume groups. On Martedì Grasso, a celebration will be held in the main square, followed by the burning of King Carnival.
While Carnevale in the Castelli might not have the elegance of Venice or the grandeur of Viareggio, it offers a joyful mix of tradition, community, and mostly pure fun. Have you been, or would you like to go someday? Share in the comments below!