Florence Carnival 2026
The Florence Carnival will return in 2026 as well, on January 31st with the Grand Ball and on February 1st with the Grand Carnival Parade in the historic city center.
An event that brings together tradition, elegance, and entertainment, the Florence Carnival traces its origins back to the Medici era and later to the Carnival celebrations of the late nineteenth century.
The artistic direction of the Grand Ball is entrusted to Antonia Sautter, creator of the Ballo del Doge. A Michelin-starred menu is also planned, designed by Paolo Lavezzini, Executive Chef of the Four Seasons Florence, who has created a special menu inspired by the theme of tarot cards and cartomancy. The Florence Carnival proudly supports charitable initiatives selected in collaboration with its scientific committee, including the Lega del Filo d’Oro and the Fondazione Tommasino Bacciotti.
The following day, starting at 3:00 p.m., the streets of the historic center will host the traditional Carnival parade, with departure and arrival in the heart of the city. Music, performers, masks, and live performances will fill the streets, culminating in the award ceremony for the best costumes, in an atmosphere of open, free, and inclusive celebration.
Comune di Firenze
Equipo
Masquerade ball at Palazzo Vecchio
A tribute to Florentine history and glamour, the Grand Carnival Ball celebrates the ancient tradition of masked balls, born at the court of Lorenzo de’ Medici and emblematic of the Renaissance.
For this new edition, the organizers have prepared a spectacular and engaging program. The evening will begin with a welcome in the Michelozzo Courtyard, where court jesters and commedia dell’arte actors will enliven an elegant welcome cocktail. A master of ceremonies will then introduce the guests and historical characters into the Hall of the Five Hundred. The gala dinner will feature a menu inspired by Tuscan culinary traditions as they were in the time of the Medici.
From 10:30 p.m., in the Hall of Arms at Palazzo Vecchio, the Grand Carnival Ball will continue with an after-dinner party organized in collaboration with Atrium Bar, performances by Stranomondo, and a European-level DJ set featuring Remo Giugni and Leandro Da Silva.
Proceeds from the evening will be donated to support two important charitable projects—the Lega del Filo d’Oro and the Fondazione Tommasino Bacciocchi—thus reaffirming the Grand Carnival Ball’s commitment to promoting culture, art, and solidarity.
The Parade
Grand Carnival Parade in the historic city center. Music and entertainment, confetti and friendship are the main ingredients of this great celebration open to everyone. From 2:00 p.m., gathering in Piazza Santa Maria Novella with “Waiting for Carnival”.
In collaboration with Lady Radio, media partner. Music and entertainment to build anticipation for Carnival, introduce the delegations taking part in the parade, and invite adults and children alike to join in costume and win prizes. Dress up and join the procession to win fantastic prizes and enjoy an afternoon filled with cheer, music, and fun. A great celebration open to all, with a strictly masked dress code!
At 3:30 p.m., the Parade will depart from Piazza Santa Maria Novella and follow this route: Piazza Santa Maria Novella, Via de’ Banchi, Via Barbadori, Via de’ Rondinelli, Via Tornabuoni, Lungarno degli Acciaioli, Por Santa Maria, Via Vacchereccia, and Piazza della Signoria.